BWSL Grand Final: Wigan Warriors v York Valkyrie Preview

Wigan Warriors will host York Valkyrie in the Betfred Women’s Super League Grand Final on Sunday 27 September at the Brick Community Stadium (KO 5:30pm).

The Warriors head into the final as reigning champions, aiming for a repeat of last year’s successes when they won the treble by finishing as Betfred Challenge Cup Champions, as well as winning the League Leaders’ Shield and Grand Final in the Betfred Women’s Super League.

Meanwhile, it’s the Valkyrie’s fourth Grand Final appearance in five years, having last appeared in 2024, when they beat St Helens 16-6 to claim back-to-back titles.

The sides met two weeks ago in the regular-season finale, when York handed Wigan their first defeat in all competitions this season and their first since the Valkyrie beat them in August 2025.

Strong defence and game management produced four first-half tries, including two from Monique Donovan, and an 18-point half-time lead.

Despite York’s lively start, Wigan scored first when Carys Marsh broke from acting half and found Mary Coleman to score, with Isabel Rowe converting.

York soon levelled through Donovan, who weaved through before Tara-Jane Stanley converted. Eboni Partington then capitalised on a loose Stanley kick to score, with Stanley converting again.

York’s momentum continued when Stanley pounced at marker, allowing Liv Wood to power over for another converted try.

Donovan scored again from her own kick, and Stanley’s touchline conversion gave York an 18-point lead after a near-flawless first half.

After several even sets, a York error under Rowe’s high ball gave Wigan an opening. Former Valkyrie Kelsey Gentles scored from acting half, and Rowe converted from in front of the posts.

Wigan increased the pressure, but York’s defence held firm to regain momentum after Megan Pakulis was held up, before Stanley’s penalty made it a three-score game.

With three minutes left, Donovan stopped a Rowe break before Williamson’s interception took play back up field to seal a memorable victory for the Valkyrie.

Their victory took them into the Semi-Final last weekend where they beat Leeds Rhinos 12-0 at AMT Headingley Stadium to secure their spot on the big stage.

The Warriors earned themselves a week off as after winning the League Leaders’ Shield and will be hoping the rest has helped prepare them ahead of this weekend’s Grand Final.

Watch Wigan Warriors face York Valkyrie in the Betfred Women's Super League Grand Final on Sunday 27 September, live on Sky Sports (KO 5.30pm).