YORK City Knights Ladies set up a Betfred Women's Super League semi-final with Leeds Rhinos after a convincing 28-14 victory over Castleford Tigers Women.

Playing in the latter of a double header with the men's team at the LNER Community Stadium, York made a lightning start to the play-offs encounter, scoring twice in the opening 10 minutes.

Olivia Woods bagged herself successive tries at the Monks Cross ground after just five minutes before returning England international winger Kelsey Gentles raced over.

Half-back Emma Hardy converted both scores for a 12-0 lead.

Castleford did hit back through hooker Jasmine Cudjoe's try, which Courtney Pursglove converted, and ensured the visitors trailed by just one score at half-time.

After the break, York again raced out of blocks to further their advantage.

Just four minutes into the second period, Hardy scored a brilliant solo try, which she successfully kicked.

Then, on 54 minutes, Tamzin Renouf - one of several former Castleford players in the York side - finished off a shift play down the right flank.

Once more, Hardy was on target from the tee.

Despite being 24-6 behind, the Tigers were still well in the contest, as proven by Shona Hoyle's unconverted effort.

But, with 10 minutes remaining, Jamaican representative Savannah Andrade dived over out wide to put the game behind the visitors.

Late on, Pursglove added to her personal tally with a clever pick-up score to reduce the hosts' lead.

The Knights face reigning champions Leeds at the Totally Wicked Stadium on Sunday (kick-off time to be confirmed) for a place in next month's Grand Final.

Should York emerge victorious, they will take on either Castleford or Betfred Challenge Cup holders St Helens at Emerald Headingley on October 9.

York: Hetherington, Gentles, Renouf, Andrade, Hyde, Hardy, Langan, Field, Peach, Hendry, Kershaw, Wood, Tiplady.

Subs: Lambert, Stimpson, Sanderson, Whitehead.