York Valkyrie v Barrow Raiders: Challenge Cup Match Preview

9 hours ago
2 min read

York Valkyrie start their 2026 campaign in the Betfred Women’s Challenge Cup at home to Barrow Raiders Ladies at the LNER Community Stadium on Sunday 12th April (1.30pm)!

It’s the first chance to see the new look Valkyrie, now led by head coach, Leon Pryce who took over from Lindsay Anfield in the off season, as they begin what they hope will be a successful run in the competition.

The game is part of a double header being played at the stadium, with the York Valkyrie Under 19s in action against their counterparts from Featherstone Rovers (11am).

The Valkyrie could feature some of their new and returning players for the group game against Barrow. Players including former captain, Sade Rihari and Canadian International, Megan Pakulis have both come back to the Valkyrie after time away from the game and a spell in the NRLW respectively.

There are also new faces including Canadian international, Petra Woods, and Brooke Henderson from Leeds Rhinos.

Former Under 19s players, Charlotte McDaid, T’Leesha Frederick-Maynard and Chevelle Clarke have all been awarded squad numbers in the open age squad, and are expected to feature more this season.

With the imminent return of Tara-Jane Stanley after a year out with injury, the Valkyrie have assembled a squad the coaching staff hope is capable of silverware in 2026.

York have met Barrow in the Challenge Cup group stages before, and were 44-4 winners at home in 2023. The Valkyrie have since beaten Barrow in the league four times across the last two seasons, following Barrow’s promotion to the top flight.

The last time they met in September, the Valkyrie were 48-6 winners.

Regardless of the result of this game, both will progress to the quarter final stage, with only two teams in this group due to Salford’s withdrawal.

Come to the LNER Community Stadium on Sunday 12th April to see York Valkyrie for the first time in 2026!

The game kicks off at 1.30pm, after York Valkyrie U19s have taken on their counterparts from Featherstone Rovers (11am).

Tickets for the double header are £5 for Adults and concessions, and FREE for Under 16s.

They're available HERE or from the York SMC Ticket Office on 01904 950950 (option 1)

Parking for this game will be Free of Charge in the Park and Ride.

Turnstiles open at 10.30am.

Follow York Valkyrie this season in Betfred Women's Super League!