Women’s Challenge Cup final: Leeds inspired by Rob Burrow legacy

Saints’ run of success in the Challenge Cup has emulated what their men’s side did in Super League, bringing them to the cusp of a fourth straight trophy.

For some of the players, merely getting the final held at Wembley is the true mark of success, as the women’s game grows in stature and develops year on year.

“Wembley hasn’t been regular for the women, it’s only the second time,” captain Jodie Cunningham told BBC Radio 5 Live. “We want to keep hold of that trophy and a fourth in row.

“It’s something bigger than I would ever dream of when I was a young girl.”

Cunningham also talked of the chance to pay tribute and celebrate Burrow’s legacy as a player, with fans of many clubs making the pilgrimage to the stadium.

While the emotion of Burrow’s passing will certainly linger, both sides know there is also a trophy to be won, and that the former England and Great Britain player would want rugby league to show itself in its best light on the pitch.

“You want to win at Wembley, that’s what it’s all about,” Saints head coach Matty Smith added.

“It’s going to be a big occasion again, we want the girls to enjoy the week and to take it all in.

“There will be some who have played and some who have not. It’s about enjoying and embracing the week, working hard and then going out to the game going out there putting the performance in and climbing those stairs.”