York’s rugby league teams are set to compete for silverware this weekend, with both the York Knights and York Valkyrie preparing for crucial matches. Andrew Henderson’s York Knights will take on Featherstone Rovers at the LNER Community Stadium on Saturday, while the Valkyrie face St Helens and Cardiff Demons at AJ Bell Stadium in the Women’s Nines final.
The women’s team has had a strong lead-up to the final, with victories over Barrow Raiders, Hull FC, and Workington Town. They are now aiming to retain their silverware from last year’s event and will need to get past tough competition from Group A, which includes Leeds Rhinos, Warrington Wolves, and Wigan Warriors. The matches will start from 10 am, and the eventual winners will be crowned as the Women’s Nines winners.
Director of Rugby Lindsay Anfield has named her preliminary squad for the upcoming matches: Savannah Andrade, Liv Gale, Ellie Hendry, Georgie Hetherington, Ashleigh Hyde, Emma Kershaw, Bettie Lambert, Rhiannion Marshall, Lacey Owen, Sinead Peach, Tamzin Renouf, Sade Rihari, Chloe Smith, Tara Jane Stanley, Georgia Taylor, Liv Whitehead, and Liv Wood.
On the other hand, York Knights have experienced an inconsistent season, with injuries hampering their progress in the Betfred Championship. Currently, in 12th position, Andrew Henderson’s side will need to produce a strong performance against Featherstone Rovers to claw their way up the table. Recent additions such as Reagan Sumner, Adam Jones, and Italy international Brenden Santi have helped to reinforce the side in recent weeks.
Oli Pratt is also back available for selection after finding himself cup-tied in the Knights’ recent Betfred Challenge Cup defeat to Leigh Leopards. Fans will be hoping to see an inspired performance from his return.
Both teams will be hoping to secure a win this weekend, with the Valkyrie aiming to retain their silverware and the Knights looking to climb the Betfred Championship table. Fans will be able to enjoy a full day of rugby league action, with the matches starting from 10 am at AJ Bell Stadium and the LNER Community Stadium.
