1895 Cup Final: Halifax Panthers v Batley Bulldogs LIVE
We’ll bring you all the updates from the showpiece occasion in what is a very special day for both clubs.
Batley Bulldogs, three times Challenge Cup winners, are playing at Wembley for the first time in their 143-year history, while Halifax return to the national stadium for the first time since 1988.
It promises to be an enthralling day.
1895 Cup Final: Halifax Panthers v Batley Bulldogs LIVE
Challenge Cup Final update
News of a try in the Challenge Cup Final to separate the sides. Leigh have scored in the corner, which was converted, and they lead Hull KR 10-6, with just over ten minutes remaining.
Batley’s path
While the Panthers had to overcome plenty of difficult obstacles on their road to Wembley, the Bulldogs had to ensure they avoided a couple of potential early banana-skins as they began what would turn out to be a historic journey to the national stadium.
A hard road for Fax
Fax’s journey to play under the arch was a difficult one. Firstly, they had to overcome Featherstone Rovers (although they managed that again last Sunday, more on that later) in the third round of the Challenge Cup, before going on to beat Barrow Raiders and Bradford Bulls. Then came a special evening with St Helens at The Shay. Fax then secured their place in the final with a nervy semi-final win at London Broncos.
How did we get here?
Let’s remind ourselves of both team’s road to Wembley. Starting with Halifax Panthers.
A day of firsts
Today represents the first time ever in Batley’s 143-year history that they have played at Wembley. It’s a special day for everyone concerned with the Bulldogs. Likewise for Fax. They haven’t had to wait as long, but a new generation of fans npw get the opportunity to see their team at Wembley. The last time was way back in 198, in defeat to Wigan.
Next up
We’ve got just over one hour to wait for the 1895 Cup Final. It is due to kick off at 5.30pm after the Men’s Challenge Cup Final between Hull KR and Leigh Leopards, where it is currently 10-10. In the Women’s final - the first ever to be held at Wembley - St Helens beat Leeds Rhinos 22-8.
WELCOME!!
Hello, good afternoon (or perhaps evening or morning , depending on where you are tuning in from!) and welcome to our live blog for the upcoming 1895 Cup Final between Halifax Panthers and Batley Bulldogs.