Halifax Panthers produced a devastating performance to retain the Betfred Wheelchair Challenge Cup, crushing Leeds Rhinos 92-24 in a one-sided final that showcased the panthers’ superiority.
The standout individual display came from Rob Hawkins, who orchestrated Halifax’s attacking onslaught with a remarkable personal tally of ten tries and 72 points. His try-scoring spree dominated the match and left Leeds unable to contain the relentless Panthers assault.
Hawkins Leads Devastating Attack
Hawkins was not alone in terrorising the Rhinos defence, with fellow player Jack Brown also making significant contributions by scoring a hat-trick of tries. The combination of Hawkins and Brown proved simply too much for Leeds to handle, as Halifax’s attacking options overwhelmed their opponents throughout the contest.
Josh Butler completed the supporting cast of key performers who drove Halifax to victory, though the narrative of the final was unmistakably shaped by Hawkins’ exceptional display.
Sixth Title for the Panthers
The 92-point haul represented a dominant scoreline that underlined Halifax’s credentials in wheelchair rugby league. This victory marked Halifax’s sixth triumph in the Wheelchair Challenge Cup, cementing their status among the competition’s elite.
The Panthers’ success builds on their recent form in the trophy, having claimed last year’s title with a victory over London Broncos. The back-to-back triumphs demonstrate a consistency at the highest level of wheelchair rugby league competition, with Halifax establishing themselves as the competition’s premier force.