York Valkyrie emerged victorious in the Women’s Super League Grand Final, edging out Wigan Warriors by a narrow 8‑6 margin. This win marks York’s third championship in as many years, following back‑to‑back triumphs in 2023 and 2024, and cements their place as the first club to claim three titles in the competition’s short history.
The final was staged at the Brick Community Stadium, where the atmosphere was electric from the first whistle. York opened the scoring early when centre Sinead Peach broke through the defensive line to touch down for the opening try.
The conversion was reliably slotted by Ellie Williamson, giving the home side an early 2‑0 lead and setting the tone for a tightly contested encounter. Wigan responded with determination. Mid‑halfway through the first half, winger Jenna Foubister displayed her speed and agility, feeding the ball to Mia‑Jayne Atherton, who surged over for Wigan’s first try.
Isabel Rowe’s successful conversion restored parity, and the score stood level at 2‑2 as the teams headed into the break. The second half opened with heightened intensity.
Both sides were eager to seize control, and the referee’s whistle soon signalled disciplinary action. Atherton was shown a yellow card and sent to the sin‑bin for a professional foul, while Wigan’s forward Eva Hunter also received a ten‑minute suspension after a dangerous tackle on York’s Jas Bell.
Hunter narrowly avoided a red card, but the sanction left Wigan short‑handed during a crucial phase of the game. York capitalised on the numerical advantage.
Ellie Williamson stepped up and nailed a decisive penalty goal, pushing York ahead 4‑2. The points proved pivotal; York would never relinquish the lead after this moment.
Throughout the remainder of the match, York’s attack continued to test Wigan’s defence. Amelie Lenham, the teenage sensation who would later be named player of the match, threatened the try line on several occasions, and forward Liv Wood was stopped just short of the line after the interval, illustrating York’s relentless pressure. Wigan, refusing to go quietly, launched a series of attacks in the second half.
Their forwards pushed hard, and the backs tried to exploit any gaps, but York’s defensive unit held firm. The Valkyrie’s back‑rowers and centres combined for a series of try‑saving tackles, with Lenham’s interventions standing out as particularly crucial. Her ability to read the opposition’s play and strip the ball away at the last moment denied Wigan any chance of overtaking York on the scoreboard. As the clock wound down, the tension remained palpable.
The final whistle confirmed an 8‑6 victory for York Valkyrie, sparking jubilant celebrations among the players, coaching staff, and supporters. The triumph was not only a testament to the team’s skill and resilience but also a historic milestone, making York the first club to secure three Women’s Super League titles. The post‑match festivities took a romantic turn when Lisa Parker, a key member of the Valkyrie squad who had played through a broken hand, received a surprise proposal from her fiancé.
The heartfelt moment added a fairy‑tale element to an already memorable evening, highlighting the personal stories that often unfold behind the sport’s grand narratives. Individual accolades were also on the horizon. Wigan’s Jenna Foubister, Eva Hunter, and Megan Williams were all shortlisted for the 2026 Woman of Steel Award, an honor that will be presented at the Rugby League Awards ceremony in Manchester on Tuesday.
Their performances throughout the season, and particularly in the Grand Final, have placed them among the elite players in the women’s game. The Grand Final also marked the conclusion of the Betfred Women’s Super League season, wrapping up a campaign that has seen the sport grow in visibility and competitiveness. Fans were encouraged to watch the event live on Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports+, with the option to stream via NOW for those without a traditional TV subscription.
Looking ahead, York Valkyrie will aim to defend their title next season, while Wigan Warriors will regroup and look to close the narrow gap that separated them from the champions. The rivalry between the two clubs promises to produce more thrilling encounters, and the continued development of women’s rugby league in the UK suggests that the sport’s future is bright and full of potential. In summary, York’s disciplined defence, timely scoring, and the inspirational performances of young talents like Amelie Lenham secured a hard‑earned victory over a resilient Wigan side.
The match will be remembered not only for its tight scoreline but also for the personal milestones celebrated on the field, underscoring the deep passion and commitment that drive women’s rugby league forward.