Hull Kingston Rovers’ Craven Park played host on Sunday 28 September to a thrilling day of Armed Forces rugby league, as the Army and Royal Air Force contested the latest round of the Inter-Services Challenge Cup. In front of an enthusiastic crowd, the Army recorded victory in all three matches, but it was the Royal Navy who ultimately lifted the trophy on points difference.

The day began at 1100 with the Army Development XIII setting the tone in emphatic fashion. Their speed and physical dominance proved decisive, as they overcame the RAF Development side with a commanding 58-0 win.

At 1330 the Women’s XIII match provided a highly competitive contest. The RAF showed determination throughout, but the Army’s forward power gave them the edge. Private Lou Kunadau, Royal Logistic Corps, delivered a standout performance from the front row, earning both Player of the Match and Player of the Tournament honours. The Army Women secured a 20-4 victory, ensuring their unbeaten season remained intact.

The showcase Men’s XIII fixture kicked off at 1600, following a spectacular delivery of the match ball by the Army Red Devils Parachute Display Team. In an intense encounter, the RAF Men pushed hard, but the Army maintained control in key moments to secure a 28-18 win and complete a clean sweep on the day.

In addition to the action on the field, the occasion provided the ideal platform for Colonel Peter Stitt, Commander HQ North, Martin Coyd OBE, Board Member of the Rugby Football League, and Francis Stevenson, Transition Manager at Rugby League Cares, to co-sign a Memorandum of Understanding. This important agreement aims to create opportunities for career pathways, support Rugby League events, enhance learning and development, and contribute to heritage projects that celebrate the sport’s proud history.

Martin Coyd, said:
“I’m delighted to see how far Army Rugby League has come. Until 1995, rugby league was not officially recognised, now a major sport in the Armed Forces. I was serving in the Royal Engineers in the 90’s, now as a board member of the RFL signing this MOU, this is progress. The Armed Forces and the sport share so many values, and I’m pleased to support this evolution.”

Despite these victories, the overall Inter-Services Challenge Cup was awarded to the Royal Navy, whose results in earlier fixtures across the competition ensured they finished top on points difference.

Colonel Peter Stitt, Commander HQ North, commented:
“The performances today highlight the outstanding commitment, teamwork, and sporting spirit of all involved. We are proud of the Army’s results and extend our congratulations to the Royal Navy on securing the Inter-Services Challenge Cup.”