13 Mar 2023

Betfred Challenge Cup | Round Three Round-Up

Countless impressive performances, a surprise exit or two, and several dramatic victories, the third round of the Betfred Challenge Cup had it all.

The biggest victory of the round arrived on Saturday afternoon as John Kear’s Widnes Vikings defeated London-based Wests Warriors by 80 points to 4. Matty Fleming, Joe Edge, Bradley Holroyd, Ryan Ince and Oliver Brookes were among the try scores for the hosts, whilst Ant Walker also crossed for a try on his 150th career appearance.

There was delight for the visitors however, as Blake Nahu raced clear to claim a deserved consolation try.

Rochdale Mayfield continued their strong Challenge Cup run with a 38-10 win at fellow National Conference League side Leigh Miners Rangers. Harry Sheridan scored a brace for Mayfield.

Elsewhere, Betfred League One side Midlands Hurricanes survived a scare to claim a hard-fought 19-10 victory at Orrell St James, whilst Hunslet ARLFC defeated Westgate Common 15-12.

London Broncos overcame a spirited Whitehaven side 32-10 in Saturday’s sole all-Championship tie.

On Sunday, North Wales Crusaders fought off a second-half comeback from NCL outfit Thatto Heath Crusaders to run out 18-10 winners in front of the BBC Sport cameras.

Jamaica international Jordan Andrade, Dave Gibbons and Ryan Ellis were the try scorers for the visiting League One side.

Halifax Panthers produced one of the performances of the round after coming from behind to record a 22-18 victory at Championship leaders Featherstone Rovers. Panthers halfback Louis Jouffret scored the decisive try at the Millennium Stadium.

Fellow Championship sides Batley Bulldogs, Bradford Bulls and Newcastle Thunder all recorded convincing wins over Wath Brow Hornets, York Acorn and Stanningley, respectively, whilst Keighley Cougars won 16-14 at Hunslet.

Jason Bass’s second-half hat-trick paved the way for Sheffield Eagles to secure a place in the fourth round of the Betfred Challenge Cup, whilst Liam Harris scored a double for York Knights in their win over West Bowling.

Paul Crarey’s Barrow Raiders got one over on Championship rivals Swinton Lions after tries from Danny Langtree, Ryan Shaw, Ryan Johnston, Ben Evans, and Luke Broadbent helped them to a 32-14 triumph.

Finally, it was victory for Doncaster and Dewsbury Rams as they saw off fellow League One sides Workington Town and Rochdale Hornets, respectively.

Round Three Results

Saturday 11 March