York Valkyrie v St.Helens: Match Preview

6 hours ago
2 min read

York Valkyrie take on rivals, St.Helens in the second round of the Betfred Women’s Super League on Saturday 23rd May at the LNER Community Stadium (5pm)!

It’s part of a double header, with York Knights hosting Catalans Dragon at 8pm.

The Valkyrie began their new season with a 42-0 win over Huddersfield Giants last weekend, while Saints beat Barrow 42-6.

With their sixth consecutive Betfred Women’s Challenge Cup final appearance to come next week, this will also be St.Helens’ last run out before their appearance at Wembley.

Games between the two sides have usually been close over the last few years, with York having a good record on their home ground.

However, St.Helens won all four meetings last year, doing the double over the Valkyrie in the League and then winning the Challenge Cup semi-final and play off semi-final, which were both held at the Brew Dog Stadium.

The last time York got the win was in the 2024 Grand Final, when they beat Saints 18-8 to claim their second consecutive Betfred Super League title.

It’s a settled St.Helens squad for 2026, with the biggest addition being the return of Paige Travis, who spent last season with Paramatta Eels, where she made 11 appearances in the NRLW.

Led by Derek Hardman and Craig Richards, they’re looking again to win silverware, after losing the Challenge Cup and League Leader’s shield to Wigan last season.

It’s the first time the sides have met since former Saints player, Leon Pryce took over as head coach of the Valkyrie.

Join us at the LNER Community Stadium as York Valkyrie face their Women's Betfred Super League rivals, St.Helens!

The game is on Saturday 23rd May (5pm) in a double header with York Knights, who face Catalans Dragons in the Betfred Super League (8pm)!

You can purchase your match tickets online HERE or over the phone from the York Stadium ticket office on 01904 950950 (option 1).

Support our IMG score and follow York RLFC's social media channels!