Cardiff Demons have been handed the toughest possible test when they break new ground for Welsh Rugby League in the Betfred Women’s Challenge Cup Quarter Finals next month, having been drawn away to a York Valkyrie team who have started the 2023 season in red hot form.
The Demons, who entered the competition for the first time this season after clinching consecutive Women’s Super League South titles, secured their place in the last eight with consecutive victories against Super League teams Salford Red Devils and Featherstone Rovers in the qualifying groups.
They will relish the trip to the LNER Community Stadium to face a Valkyrie team who have lost Challenge Cup and Super League Grand Finals in each of the last two seasons, but have won all five of their fixtures in league and cup this year.
York are set to play the tie as the first part of a double header as their men’s team have also reached the Challenge Cup Quarter Finals, and have been drawn at home to Leigh Leopards in the last eight.
There is a huge incentive in the Betfred Women’s Challenge Cup this year with the Final to be played at Wembley for the first time before the men’s Final on Saturday August 12.
St Helens, the holders, will host local rivals Warrington Wolves in the last eight, while Leeds Rhinos welcome Leigh Leopards on Saturday June 17 (1pm), and Wigan Warriors will host Huddersfield Giants.
The draw was conducted at Headingley on Friday night after the Betfred Super League classic between Leeds and St Helens, and broadcast live on BBC 5 Live Sports Extra, with Salford Red Devils coach and BBC summariser Paul Rowley drawing out the balls.
The Quarter Finals will be played on the weekend of June 17-18, with the Semi Finals on July 22-23.
Betfred Women’s Challenge Cup Quarter Final Draw
Wigan Warriors v Huddersfield Giants
Leeds Rhinos v Leigh Leopards
York Valkyrie v Cardiff Demons
St Helens v Warrington Wolves
