York Valkyrie have earned the right to contest the 2026 Women's Super League Grand Final, where they will meet defending champions Wigan Warriors. Their path to the final was cemented by an impressive 12-0 triumph over Leeds Rhinos in the semi‑final played at Headingley, a result that turned the tide after a difficult start to the season.
The semi‑final was a dramatic encounter that showcased York's resilience and tactical acumen. The first 21 minutes unfolded without any points on the board as both sides tested each other's defensive structures.
The deadlock was finally broken in the 22nd minute when York’s dynamic forward Liv Wood seized an opportunity, twisting and turning past the Leeds defence before grounding the ball for a try. Tara Jane Stanley, York’s reliable kicker, added the conversion, giving the Valkyrie an early 6‑0 lead. Leeds responded with sustained pressure as the half‑hour mark approached, repeatedly threatening the York try‑line.
In a crucial moment, Leeds’ Ruby Walker attempted a grubber kick that fell short, allowing Stanley to collect the loose ball and sprint clear, extending the lead. Three minutes before the break, Stanley demonstrated her range with a long‑range penalty, pushing the score to 8‑0. The second half began with York appearing to double their advantage when Stanley powered over for a second try. However, the Video Referee reviewed the footage and ruled that she had lost control of the ball in the act of scoring, nullifying the try.
The decision sparked a Leeds resurgence; the Rhinos attacked with vigor, but York’s defensive line held firm, preserving the two‑score margin. Midway through the second period, Leeds thought they had narrowed the gap when Georgia Elliston crossed under the posts for a try. Once again, the Video Referee intervened, citing obstruction and overturning the score.
York then restored their dominance when Adaoha Akwiwu burst through the defensive line after a short pass from Stanley, securing a final try and sealing a 12‑0 victory. In the closing stages, Leeds’ Ebony Stead appeared to have given the Rhinos a glimmer of hope with a wide‑out try, but a third Video Referee review disallowed the effort after it was determined she had lost possession while grounding the ball.
The match ended on a bittersweet note for York as their standout performer, Tara Jane Stanley, failed a Head Injury Assessment (HIA) and was ruled out of the upcoming Grand Final. Following the win, York head coach Leon Pryce spoke to Sky Sports, expressing disbelief at the turnaround. He highlighted how the team had been written off early in the season, with pundits predicting another routine Saints‑versus‑Leeds clash.
Pryce explained that the criticism acted as fuel for his squad, emphasizing the grit, toughness, and determination that allowed them to shut out a strong Leeds side in a hostile environment. He praised the players for their late‑season surge and said he could not be prouder of their achievements. The Grand Final is set for Sunday, 27 September, at the Brick Community Stadium, with a 5.30 pm kick‑off to be broadcast live on Sky Sports. York will face a Wigan side that has already demonstrated its dominance in the individual awards arena.
Three Warriors—Jenna Foubister, Eva Hunter, and Megan Williams—have been shortlisted for the prestigious Woman of Steel award, underscoring the high caliber of the opposition. Jenna Foubister, the 19‑year‑old half‑back, has been a linchpin in Wigan’s attack throughout the season, recording nine tries in 18 appearances across all competitions.
Her performance in the Women’s Challenge Cup Final at Wembley, where she created two tries and delivered three line‑break assists, earned her a Player of the Match accolade and contributed to Wigan’s second‑time cup victory. Eva Hunter, the reigning Woman of Steel, has continued her prolific form under coach Denis Betts, crossing the line 23 times in all competitions.
The powerful second‑rower not only showcases blistering pace and robust ball‑carrying but also made history by becoming the first woman to score four tries in a Challenge Cup Final at Wembley. Megan Williams, a relative newcomer to the Warriors after joining from St Helens ahead of the 2025 season, has quickly become a cornerstone of Wigan’s forward pack.
The England Knights international has added four tries since the competition entered its Super Four phase, helping the club maintain its push for another historic campaign. York’s journey from heavy defeats—38‑16 at Leeds on 8 August and 44‑0 at Wigan on 15 August—to a flawless semi‑final performance exemplifies a remarkable turnaround. Their victories over Leeds at home, St Helens away, and Wigan at home before the semi‑final illustrate a team that has found its rhythm at the right moment.
As the final approaches, both sides will look to capitalize on their strengths. York will need to adjust to the loss of Stanley, whose kicking and leadership were pivotal, while relying on the collective spirit that has defined their resurgence.
Wigan, bolstered by the individual brilliance of their shortlisted players, will aim to assert their dominance and add another title to their growing trophy cabinet. Fans can tune in to Sky Sports on 27 September to witness what promises to be a compelling showdown between the underdog Valkyrie and the seasoned Warriors, a match that will not only decide the league champions but also showcase the rapid growth and increasing competitiveness of women’s rugby league.