The RFL Challenge Shield Final
Fryston Warriors 35 v 18 Kells
Ince Rose Bridge, Wigan


Fryston Warriors lifted the inaugural RFL Challenge Shield after coming out on top 35-18 in a great final with Kells.

Played in front of a bumper crowd at Ince Rose Bridge, the win completes a great couple of weeks for the Warriors as they lifted the Yorkshire Men’s League title last week.

The Cumbrians took an early lead when Carl Schofield raced in, but Fryston slowly found their feet and raced into a 16-4 lead by the 30th minute after tries to Lee Land (2) and Steve Scott. Two of which were improved via the boot of Dale Cogan.

However, a 40th minute effort from Steven McCourt – which was converted by Ross Gainford – made it 16-10 at half-time.

The game was all square just five minutes into the second period when Barry Boyd crossed the whitewash for another Gainford improved try, and just minutes later the sides traded penalties to keep the crowd enthralled.

However, a field-goal from Andy Speak nudged the West Yorkshire ahead again and a storming last 15 minutes sealed the Warriors triumph.

Man-of-the-match Wayne McHugh scored a great individual effort which he converted to give his side the edge, and further touchdowns to Land – his hat-trick score – and Adam Dickinson meant the Shield was on its way back to Fryston.