Betfred Women's Challenge Cup Semi-Final
Tries: McDonald 2, Harris, Gaskin, Rudge
Goals: Gaskin 5
Tries: Boyd, Enright, Whitehead
Goals: Howard
St Helens overcame a determined second-half resurgence from Leeds Rhinos to book their place in the Challenge Cup final against Wigan Warriors.
The Saints appeared to be comfortably advancing to the Wembley final on May 30, holding a commanding 24-0 lead after 50 minutes. Tries from Erin McDonald, Zoe Harris, Faye Gaskin, and Emily Rudge, complemented by flawless conversions from Gaskin, established their dominance.
Leeds managed to find momentum following a challenging first half, with Connie Boyd, Ruby Enright, and Olivia Whitehead crossing the try line to offer hope to Lois Forsell's squad.
However, the Rhinos' rally came too late to alter the outcome. McDonald's second try extinguished any remaining uncertainty, confirming that Saints will face Wigan in a repeat of last year's final, which Wigan decisively won 42-6.
Wigan demonstrated ruthless form by defeating York Valkyrie on Saturday, but St Helens quickly asserted their own style in the second semi-final held at the EcoPower Stadium in Doncaster.
McDonald proved too strong for a Leeds defense that lacked confidence and cohesion during the opening 40 minutes, scoring the first points conceded by the Rhinos in this season's competition.
In contrast, St Helens' defense was outstanding, highlighted by Rachael Woosey's exceptional try-saving tackle on Whitehead. Whitehead also lost possession on another opportunity shortly thereafter.
Gaskin's precise kick enabled Harris to score another try for the Saints. Despite a halftime pep talk, Leeds struggled to respond as Gaskin broke through three tackles and converted for a personal total of 14 points.
Leeds eventually found their rhythm, with their powerful pack gaining significant ground. They dominated the final 30 minutes as Boyd powered over, Enright completed the match's best passing sequence, and quick ball movement allowed Whitehead to score wide out.
Mel Howard converted only one of her three attempts, rendering the comeback insufficient. McDonald sealed the victory with a try two minutes before full time.
Team Lineups
St Helens: Rotheram; Burke, Hardcastle, Woosey, McGifford; Harris, Gaskin; Hoyle-Holdsworth, Casey, McDonald, Travis, Rudge, Cunningham.
Interchanges: Whitfield, Mottershead, McColm, Bridge.
Leeds: Stead; Whitehead, Kennedy, Boyd, Enright; Walker, Howard; Brown, Bruce, Glynn, Murray, Owen, Donnelly.
Interchanges: Bennett, Short, Naidole, Sharp.
