York Valkyrie's defensive heroics stun favourites Wigan in Grand Final
York Valkyrie held off relentless Wigan pressure to win 8-6 in the Women's Super League Grand Final, becoming the first club to claim the title three times.
In the Betfred Women's Super League Grand Final at the Brick Community Stadium, York Valkyrie edged out Wigan Warriors 8-6, securing a third league title and becoming the first team in the competition's history to achieve the feat.
York took the lead in the first half through a try from Sinead Peach, converted twice by Ellie Williamson. Wigan hit back with a try from Mia-Jayne Atherton and a successful kick from Rowe, but could not find a way past York's defence again.
The second half produced no further scoring despite sustained pressure from Wigan, as York's defence held firm throughout. Teenage forward Amelie Lenham was singled out for a string of crucial defensive plays that kept Wigan out.
Wigan's afternoon was further complicated by two first-half sin-bins, with both try-scorer Mia-Jayne Atherton and Eva Hunter temporarily sent from the field. Despite entering the match as favourites, Wigan produced an unusually error-prone performance and were left shocked by the result.
The match was officiated by referee Aaron Moore.
