Challenge Cup tie forfeited with side handed automatic win

Oulton Raidettes have been forced to forfeit their Women’s Challenge Cup Group 2 tie with Leeds Rhinos due to a lack of players. 

The side fell to a 54-4 defeat to Huddersfield in the opening weekend of Women’s Challenge Cup, while Leeds defeated Bradford 72-0.

Lois Forsell’s squad were set to travel for the game this Sunday, May 7, with a 2:00pm kick-off.

However, due to a lack of players hit by injuries and unavailability with the Bank Holiday weekend, Championship side Oulton Raidettes have had to withdraw from the fixture.

The next round of the Women’s Challenge Cup are set to take place on Sunday, May 21, with Oulton Raidettes travel to Odsal Stadium to face Bradford, while Huddersfield host Leeds.

Oulton Raidettes forfeit Challenge Cup tie

A statement by club chairman Philip Craddick read: “Oulton Raiders ARLFC wish to sincerely apologise to all supporters, Leeds Rhinos Ladies and the RFL that we are unable to fulfil the Women’s Betfred Challenge Cup fixture planned for Sunday, 7 May.

“Injuries picked up in our game last week against Huddersfield in addition to long-term absentees and unavailable due to Bank Holiday weekend have meant we do not have enough fit players to field a team.

“The decision has not been taken lightly as we were hoping we would be able to take part. But it has now become apparent it would not be the case, so we have had to reluctantly inform Leeds Rhinos and the RFL.

“We realise this is extremely disappointing news for everybody, and especially for our club as participation in this as a community club is a great privilege.

“We apologise to supporters of both teams who had made plans to travel and our opponents who will have prepared for the game.”

For the first time both the Women’s and Men’s Challenge Cup finals will take place at Wembley Stadium on the same day –12 August 2023.

It will also mark the Women’s Challenge Cup Final’s debut at Wembley.

Women’s Challenge Cup fixtures – Sunday 7th May 2023

Group 1

Featherstone Rovers vs Wigan Warriors – 12:00

Salford Red Devils vs Cardiff Demons – 13:00

Group 2

Bradford Bulls vs Huddersfield Giants – 14:00

Group 3

York Valkyrie vs Hull KR – 12:00

Leigh Leopards Ladies vs Barrow Raiders Ladies – 14:00

Group 4

Castleford Tigers vs St Helens – 14:00

Warrington Wolves vs London Broncos – 14:00

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