When England Universities lifted the RFL President's Cup for the third straight year on June 11, 2025, it marked the first three‑peat in the competition’s 30‑year history. The winner‑takes‑all showdown at Halton Farnworth Hornets saw the student side overcome the UK Armed Forces after a dramatic comeback, sealing a 28‑24 triumph that kept their unbeaten run intact. The final, broadcast to university halls across the country, underscored how a three‑team format—forced by the late withdrawal of the Great Britain Police—still delivered high‑stakes rugby league drama.
Why the 2025 President's Cup mattered more than ever
Traditionally, the President's Cup pits a dozen regional representative sides against each other. This year, logistical setbacks left only three contenders: England Universities, Great Britain Teachers, and the UK Armed Forces. With each match counting double for points difference, the tournament became a tight‑rope walk where a single try could decide the champion.
“It’s a test of depth, not just talent,” said Adam Houston, co‑coach of England Universities, after the opening win. “When you have only three games, you can’t afford a slip.”
Opening match: Universities vs Teachers – a 26‑16 statement
The first fixture unfolded on Wednesday, April 16, 2025, at Sheffield Hallam University Sports Park, kicking off at 7:00 pm. England Universities, guided by co‑coaches Adam Houston and Mark Sloan, fielded a 26‑man squad drawn heavily from recent national champions Leeds Beckett University and the University of Nottingham.
Early on, a gritty Ben Bell‑Thorn‑Robert’s dummy pass set the tone, but it was Jacob Cox of GB Teachers who snagged the opening try with a perfectly timed grubber that fooled Nottingham pair Ben Price and Freddie Ziegler. Nathan Lyon powered over for the conversion, giving Teachers a 6‑0 lead.
England United answered quickly; Danny Salkeld (Teesside) darted under the sticks to level, and Price’s accurate boot restored the lead. A blitz from Dan Perry and a slick finish by Ben Grindley‑Roberts pushed the score to 18‑6 before halftime. The second half saw the Teachers claw back a try, but a late penalty from Leon Stewart (see below) cemented the 26‑16 win.
Coaching quirks and squad depth
Houston and Sloan leaned heavily on players from six universities, aiming for a blend of speed and physicality. Notable names included:
- Ben Bell‑Thorn (Nottingham)
- Fin Balback (Leeds Beckett)
- Leon Stewart, captain (Hull), whose leadership on and off the field earned him a spot on the league’s “Emerging Stars” list.
- Jake Dickinson (University of Manchester Met) – a breakout winger who scored the decisive try in the final.
While the Teachers relied on seasoned educators with a background in amateur leagues, the Universities’ breadth of experience from top‑flight BUCS tournaments gave them a tactical edge, especially in set‑piece execution.
Second round: Teachers vs Armed Forces – a must‑win for GB Teachers
May 14, 2025, saw GB Teachers travel to Orrell St James for a make‑or‑break encounter against the Armed Forces. The Teachers needed an eleven‑point victory to keep title hopes alive. Early pressure from the Forces produced a try by Myles Mason after just three minutes, but the Teachers’ disciplined defense limited further damage. In the end, the Forces held on for a narrow 14‑12 win, crushing the Teachers’ chances and guaranteeing a final showdown between England Universities and the Armed Forces.
Armed Forces coach Darren Bamford’s logistical headache
Head coach Darren Bamford, a Royal Navy lieutenant, disclosed that operational commitments forced several players out of the squad. “We pulled players from RAF Formby, a base in Southport, and even from the Scottish Highlands,” Bamford told reporters. “The geopolitical climate meant some service members couldn’t get leave, but the lads showed up ready to fight.”
Despite the attrition, the Forces displayed resilience, with Michael McDonald’s flawless conversions keeping them within striking distance throughout the tournament.
June 11 showdown: A winner‑takes‑all thriller
The final at Halton Farnworth Hornets turned into a roller‑coaster. The Forces raced to a 6‑0 lead via Mason’s try and McDonald’s conversion. England Universities answered with a breathtaking dive by Jake Dickinson, flattening the ball inches from the touch‑in‑goal line. Fin Balback’s successful kick tied the game.
Captain Leon Stewart then smashed through two defenders, grounding the ball beneath the posts – a try that tipped the scales at 12‑6. Balback’s conversion made it 14‑6.
The Forces dug deep. Nathan Barker’s power‑run under the posts brought the score to 14‑12, and McDonald’s second conversion forced extra time. In the sudden‑death period, England Universities capitalised on a loose ball, with Jake Dickinson again crossing for the decisive try. The final conversion by Balback sealed a 28‑24 victory, handing the Universities a historic three‑peat.
Expert take: What does the three‑peat mean for university rugby?
Rugby league analyst Mike Harrington noted, “England Universities have built a pipeline that rivals professional academies. Their ability to integrate players from eight different institutions while maintaining a cohesive game plan is unprecedented.” Harrington added that the triumph could inspire other universities to invest in full‑time coaching staff, potentially reshaping the BUCS rugby league hierarchy.
Key facts
- Tournament dates: April 16 – June 11, 2025.
- Participating teams: England Universities, Great Britain Teachers, UK Armed Forces.
- Final score: England Universities 28, UK Armed Forces 24.
- Historic achievement: First three‑peat in President’s Cup history.
- Top scorer: Leon Stewart (England Universities) – 2 tries, 4 conversions.
What’s next for the champions?
With the cup secured, England Universities now turn their sights to the upcoming BUCS National Championships in September. Coach Sloan hinted at a refreshed squad that will incorporate fresh talent from the 2025 intake, aiming to defend both the President’s Cup and the national title.
Meanwhile, the Armed Forces plan to rebuild their squad around the core of Scotland‑born forwards, while GB Teachers will regroup and evaluate a coaching change after the missed opportunity.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the three‑team format affect the competition’s fairness?
With only three sides, each match carries double weight for points difference. This amplifies the impact of every try and penalty, meaning a single lapse can decide the champion. Critics argue it reduces margin for error, but supporters say it heightens excitement and forces teams to be versatile.
Who were the standout players in the final?
Leon Stewart earned Man of the Match honors, scoring two tries and converting four goals. Jake Dickinson’s clutch try in extra time cemented his reputation as a big‑stage performer, while Fin Balback’s reliable boot kept the University side within striking distance throughout.
What challenges did the UK Armed Forces face with player availability?
Coach Darren Bamford cited operational deployments and training commitments that forced several athletes to withdraw. The team still managed to assemble a squad drawing from RAF Formby, naval bases in Scotland, and army units in Devon, showcasing remarkable adaptability under pressure.
Will the President’s Cup return to a larger field next year?
RFL officials are reviewing logistics after the 2025 season. Early indications suggest they aim to re‑invite the Great Britain Police and potentially add a fourth side, provided venue availability and funding align.
How does this victory impact university rugby league recruitment?
The three‑peat raises the profile of university rugby league, making it an attractive pathway for teenage players eyeing professional contracts. Scouts from Super League clubs reported increased interest in University fixtures, forecasting a stronger talent pipeline in the next five years.