LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
In a historic moment for women's rugby league, St Helens emerged victorious in the first women's Challenge Cup final to be held at Wembley, as reported by theguardian.com.
This marks a significant milestone for the sport, considering that the inaugural women's final in 2012 attracted only a handful of spectators in Dewsbury.
The final has now been elevated to the same status as the men's event, forming part of a double-header.
Led by Matty Smith, St Helens has solidified their dominance by clinching their seventh Challenge Cup victory out of the eleven competitions held, including the last three consecutive titles.
The decision by Leeds and York to start paying their players this season has raised hopes that increased national exposure for women's rugby league could prompt other clubs to follow suit.
While the ultimate aim of achieving professionalism remains distant, the final at Wembley provided an encouraging glimpse into the future.
St Helens showcased their prowess in the competition with an impressive display, scoring three tries within five minutes of the first half to firmly establish their lead.
Despite a spirited fightback from Leeds on either side of halftime, St Helens managed to thwart the Rhinos' bid for a third Challenge Cup championship.
The match began with Leeds dominating proceedings, with Amy Hardcastle coming agonizingly close to scoring a try.
However, she was tackled just short of the line by Eboni Partington.
Shortly after, Tara Jones touched down for St Helens, giving them the early advantage.