Women’s Challenge Shield and Plate Finals set for May 11 at Featherstone Rovers

This Sunday (May 11), Featherstone Rovers will host an exciting double-header as the Women’s Challenge Shield and Plate Finals take centre stage. Championship sides Salford Red Devils and Swinton Lionesses will go head-to-head for the Shield, while Halifax Panthers face Rochdale Hornets in the Plate Final; both promising thrilling encounters and a celebration of Community Women’s Rugby League.

The newly introduced Challenge Shield and Plate competitions have run alongside the Betfred Women’s Challenge Cup this season, offering the Community Game teams fresh opportunities to compete for silverware. Championship teams entered at Round 2, meeting the winners from Round 1, while those eliminated early were given a second chance through the Challenge Plate, ensuring competitive fixtures throughout and keeping momentum alive in the women’s game.

Both Salford Red Devils and Swinton Lionesses have delivered standout performances on their road to the Shield Final.

Salford swept past Wakefield Trinity (36–0) and Bradford Bulls (52–0), before earning a BYE in the semi-finals. Swinton Lionesses impressed with victories over Leigh Miners Rangers (38–8), Widnes Vikings (40–14), and Hull KR (18–12) to secure their spot in the final. 

In the Plate competition, Halifax Panthers and Rochdale Hornets rebounded from opening-round exits to book their place in the final. Halifax dominated Ashton Bears (62–10) and Batley ARLFC (48–8), while Rochdale Hornets edged out Thatto Heath Crusaders (18–14) following a BYE into the semi-finals.

As the Women’s game continues to grow in stature, the finals on 11th May promise a fantastic showcase of talent, passion, and community spirit. Spectators are strongly encouraged to attend and support all four teams in what is sure to be a memorable day for Women’s Community Rugby League. 

 
Entry: £5 for adults, £1 for under 18s. 
 
Check out full results and team paths to the final on the Match Centre. 
 

Cat Hutchinson, Community Game Competition Manager, said:  “The introduction of the Challenge Shield and Plate has been a brilliant addition to the Women’s League. It’s fantastic to offer more opportunities for our community teams to compete for honours during the Challenge Cup. Not only does it keep the season alive for more teams but gives them the opportunity to test themselves against new opposition. The finals are set to be a testament to the quality on show in the women’s game right now. ” 

Sunday 11 May at Featherstone Rovers:

Challenge Plate Final, 1pm KO – Halifax Panthers vs Rochdale Hornets 

Challenge Shield Final, 3pm KO – Salford Red Devils vs Swinton Lionesses 

The Plate and Shield Finals will be streamed live on the RFL YouTube channel.