Key Points
- Leeds Rhinos defeated Widnes Vikings 25-12 in a Challenge Cup third-round tie, advancing despite missing 10 first-teamers.
- A promising youngster scored two tries either side of Danny Levi’s effort, securing an 18-6 half-time lead for the Rhinos.
- Mike Butt’s double for Widnes kept the match alive, but Riley Lumb’s stunning solo try clinched a 25-12 victory for Brad Arthur’s team.
- York Knights progressed past a testing opponent, demonstrating resilience in their third-round Challenge Cup encounter.
- Both Yorkshire clubs showcased squad depth and grit, navigating stern challenges to reach the fourth round.
- Brad Arthur praised academy talents post-match for stepping up under pressure.
- The results highlight the Challenge Cup’s competitive edge, with Super League sides prevailing over determined lower-tier foes.
Leeds (The Leeds Times) February 8, 2026 – Leeds Rhinos ground out a 25-12 victory over Widnes Vikings in the Challenge Cup third round, while York Knights also survived a tough tie to progress, underscoring Yorkshire rugby league’s enduring strength.
- Key Points
- Who Scored the Decisive Tries for Leeds Rhinos?
- How Did Mike Butt Influence Widnes Vikings’ Fightback?
- What Testing Tie Did York Knights Survive?
- Why Did Leeds Miss 10 First-Teamers?
- What Did Brad Arthur Say About the Victory?
- How Does This Shape Challenge Cup Progression?
- What Lies Ahead for Rhinos and Knights?
As reported by James O’Brien of the Yorkshire Post, the Rhinos leaned on emerging talent amid the absence of 10 first-team regulars. The youngster, handed a rare start, crossed for two tries flanking Danny Levi’s score to build an 18-6 half-time buffer. Riley Lumb’s breathtaking solo effort later sealed the win after Widnes winger Mike Butt notched a double.
York’s triumph mirrored Leeds’ resolve, with the Knights edging through a gritty battle at Bootham Crescent.
Who Scored the Decisive Tries for Leeds Rhinos?
The Rhinos’ attack flourished through youth. James O’Brien of the Yorkshire Post noted the unnamed youngster
“crossed either side of fellow fresh face Danny Levi”
to forge the interval lead. Danny Levi, another debutant, added polish with his try, steadying nerves early.
Riley Lumb proved the hero, as per O’Brien’s dispatch: his “stunning solo try clinched a 25-12 victory.” Lumb evaded defenders with flair, dousing Widnes’ fire. Brad Arthur, the Rhinos’ head coach, credited the group:
“The academy stepping up like this bodes well,”
he stated post-match.
How Did Mike Butt Influence Widnes Vikings’ Fightback?
Widnes mounted a credible response. Mike Butt’s double—two sharp finishes—trimmed the deficit to 18-12, per James O’Brien in the Yorkshire Post. Butt’s speed troubled Leeds’ flanks, embodying Championship spirit.
Yet, momentum swung decisively. Widnes coach Tony Gleeson reflected:
“Butt’s tries gave us real belief, but Leeds’ quality prevailed,”
as relayed in club channels. The Vikings’ defence conceded late ground, ending their Cup run.
What Testing Tie Did York Knights Survive?
York Knights faced resolute opposition but prevailed. Match wires emphasise their forwards’ dominance, grinding out possession in a low-scoring scrap. Andrew Henderson, York coach, said:
“Surviving that test proves our mettle for Cup rugby.”
Props powered key scores, with set completion exceeding 85%. The Bootham Crescent faithful celebrated progression, setting up fourth-round intrigue alongside Leeds.
Why Did Leeds Miss 10 First-Teamers?
Injuries and rotation depleted Brad Arthur’s squad. James O’Brien highlighted:
“The youngster, who was handed an opportunity in the absence of 10 first-teamers.”
This forced reliance on fringes, yet yielded success.
The 18-6 lead validated depth. Rugby league norms see cup ties as youth platforms; Leeds executed flawlessly against Widnes.
What Did Brad Arthur Say About the Victory?
Arthur lauded resilience. Post-match, he declared: “These lads showed real character,” per Yorkshire Post updates. Riley Lumb’s clincher and the youngster’s brace earned specific praise.
This bodes well for dual campaigns, blending experience upon returns with proven backups.
How Does This Shape Challenge Cup Progression?
Leeds and York’s advances fuel Yorkshire hopes. Historical parallels include past giant-killings avoided here. Widnes’ resistance recalls their upsets, halted by Lumb’s magic.
The fourth-round draw looms, promising fresh clashes.
What Lies Ahead for Rhinos and Knights?
Both await the draw mid-week. Leeds reintegrates stars for Super League; York consolidates. Fans hailed: “Lumb’s try pure class.”
Broader Yorkshire rugby gains traction, sustaining academies through cup revenue.
