York Valkyrie advanced to the Women's Super League final with a victory over Leeds Rhinos at AMT Headingley. In the final, scheduled for 27 September at the Brick Community Stadium, York will face current champions Wigan Warriors.
York's Leon Pryce led the team that last week broke Wigan's perfect record, securing a place in the semi-finals. York had previously defeated Wigan 26-12.
York reached the try line through Liv Wood and Adaohae Akwiwu. The England international crossed the line despite the attention of three defenders. Tara-Jane Stanley converted the try, securing a lead for her team at half-time.
Stanley, who missed the match against Wigan on 27 September after failing the head injury assessment, has returned following a two-year absence due to injury. This has sparked a run of four wins in the last five matches for York. In the match against Leeds, Stanley sent Akwiwu over for the second try for York, although one point was disallowed due to a dropped ball.
Leeds had defeated their opponents heavily in two league matches, entering the game after four consecutive defeats. Megan Paklis was prevented from scoring by a strong tackle from Ruby Bruce, while Georgie Elliston's point was disallowed due to a forward pass by a teammate. Ebony Stead dropped the ball as she went to ground. The match was officiated by Denton Arnold.
