York Valkyrie emerged victorious in the Women’s Super League Grand Final, edging out the Wigan Warriors by a narrow 8-6 margin. This win marked York’s third championship in as many years, following their back-to-back triumphs in 2023 and 2024, and cemented their status as the first club to claim three titles in the competition.
The showdown took place 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 and touched down for the opening try. The conversion was reliably slotted by Ellie Williamson, giving the home side a 2-0 lead and setting the tone for a tightly contested encounter.
Wigan responded with determination. Mid‑season standout Jenna Foubister orchestrated a well‑executed move that saw Mia‑Jayne Atherton receive the ball in space and dive over for a try, equalising the score. Isabel Rowe added the conversion, restoring parity at 2-2 and signalling that the match would be decided by fine margins. The first half continued to be a battle of discipline as well as skill.
Both teams suffered setbacks when Atherton and Wigan’s Eva Hunter were each sent to the sin‑bin for repeated infringements. Hunter narrowly avoided a red card after a dangerous tackle on York’s prop Jas Bell, instead serving a temporary suspension that forced Wigan to play with one fewer player for several minutes.
During that interval, Williamson calmly kicked a decisive penalty goal, pushing York ahead 4-2. That lead proved crucial, as the Valkyrie would never relinquish it. After the break, York maintained the pressure. Amelie Lenham, the teenage sensation who would later be named player of the match, made several incisive runs that threatened the Wigan line, coming close to adding another try.
Liv Wood also made a strong attempt, only to be halted just short of the try‑line, highlighting York’s relentless attacking intent. Wigan, unwilling to concede defeat, launched a series of attacks in the second half.
Their forwards drove forward, and the backs tried to exploit any gaps, but York’s defensive organization held firm. The Valkyrie’s back‑rowers and centres executed a series of try‑saving tackles, with Lenham’s defensive work standing out as a key factor in preserving the narrow lead. Her composure under pressure and ability to read the opposition’s play earned her the match’s top honour. The final whistle confirmed York’s 8-6 victory, sparking jubilant celebrations among players, staff, and supporters.
The win not only gave York a historic third title but also provided a fairy‑tale conclusion to the evening. In a heart‑warming moment after the match, Lisa Parker, who had played through the game with a broken hand, was proposed to by her fiancé, adding a personal touch of romance to the night’s triumph. Beyond the on‑field drama, the Grand Final also served as the curtain‑call for the Betfred Women’s Super League season. Several Wigan players – Jenna Foubister, Eva Hunter and Megan Williams – were highlighted as leading contenders for the 2026 Woman of Steel Award, an accolade that will be presented at the Rugby League Awards ceremony in Manchester on Tuesday.
Looking ahead, fans are already turning their attention to the upcoming Betfred Super League Grand Final, which will be broadcast live on Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports+ on Saturday, 3 October, at 5 p.m. Viewers can also stream the match without a contract via NOW.
The excitement generated by York’s hard‑fought victory promises to carry forward into the men’s competition, underscoring the growing popularity and competitive spirit of rugby league across both genders. Overall, the Grand Final showcased the very best of women’s rugby league: skillful attacking play, disciplined defence, and moments of personal triumph that resonated far beyond the stadium. York’s ability to hold out under pressure, combined with their consistent success over three seasons, highlights a dynasty in the making, while Wigan’s relentless effort ensures that the rivalry will continue to produce memorable contests for years to come.