PROUD York City Knights Ladies captain Carly Hilton reckons reaching the Women's Challenge Shield final in their home city can have a lasting impact on women’s rugby league in York.

The Knights Ladies take on the Army Ladies in the final at Heworth ARLC on Sunday (1pm).

It will be a highlight of an already superb season for the team who remain unbeaten in the Women's Merit League, with their only defeat coming to Premier League leaders Castleford Tigers in the Yorkshire Cup.

"I’m so proud to lead the team out in the final," Hilton said. "We have really struggled with injuries throughout the season so to be doing so well in the Merit League and get to the Challenge Shield final is a massive achievement for the team.”

The York team went under the Knights' umbrella this year, and the move has clearly paid off.

Said Hilton: “Since we have moved over to York City Knights Ladies we have gained so much more support.

"Hopefully it will get a few ladies interested in playing too so we can build on our squad.

"We have had a bit of interest from a few young girls over the last few weeks so it is already having an impact. We already have two 16-year-olds in our squad that are doing very well but I'm hoping for a few more to add to it.”

The prop forward, meanwhile, believes Sunday’s opponents will provide a stern test and explained that a recent scouting trip may lead to a change of tactics.

“The final will be a tough one," she said. "A few of us players went to watch the Army a few weeks ago and the style they have shows it will be a tough game.

"After seeing how they play we've had to change our game plan a little, but I'm positive my team can handle that.”

Knights Ladies coach Daryl North, in his first season as boss, said: “It’s great they have made the final - it shows that all their hard work is paying off.

"I personally think this is brilliant for women’s rugby in York. Hopefully they will get the recognition they deserve and have a big following on the day.”

North also says his side are taking inspiration from the season their male counterparts are having in League One, having risen from rank outsiders to promotion candidates.

James Ford's men host Toronto Wolfpack in their Super 8s opener on Sunday, and, with a bit of luck, the final at Heworth should finish in time for fans to dash into the city centre for the 3pm kick off at Bootham Crescent.

“The ladies are trying to replicate the men’s team great season and hopefully they will win the cup and finish top of the Merit League and do the Knights proud," North said.

"I really hope as many people as possible come to watch the game and support the girls.

"It will be a great day for all and a fantastic advert for rugby league in York with it being played at Heworth.”