York Valkyrie edge Wigan 8-6 for historic third Super League title

York Valkyrie beat Wigan Warriors 8-6 in the Betfred Women's Super League Grand Final at the Brick Community Stadium on 27 September to become the first side to win the title three times. BBC Sport

York had previously lifted the trophy in 2023 and 2024. Wigan arrived as defending champions and favourites, but York were the only team to have beaten them during the season.

York led 8-6 at half-time. No points were scored after the break.

In rugby league, a try is worth four points and a goal kicked after a try or from a penalty is worth two. York hooker Sinead Peach touched down for her side’s try, and Ellie Williamson added two goals. Wigan replied through a try from Mia-Jayne Atherton and a goal from Rowe.

Defence decided it. Wigan played part of the first half with 12 players after Atherton and Eva Hunter were each sin-binned, meaning ten minutes off the field for an offence. York could not pull clear, and then had to protect a two-point lead for the entire second half.

Amelie Lenham was named player of the match for York. Lisa Parker made 47 tackles despite playing with a broken hand. Head coach Leon Pryce was without Tara Jane Stanley, who missed the game with concussion.

Aaron Moore was the referee for a final shown live on Sky Sports. Super League

York reached the final with a 12-0 semi-final win away at Leeds Rhinos on 18 September. Sky Sports

What makes this stand out is the control it took. Two points. Forty minutes without scoring. No panic. For fans new to league, where teams get six tackles to move the ball before they must hand it over, that is a long time to defend a lead. York tackled, waited and won.