Super League: York Knights finish maiden season with thrashing of Bradford Bulls as Paul Vaughan retires

11.09.2026, 09:42 skysports.com

York saw off bottom club Bradford 35-16 in their final match of the regular Super League campaign at the LNER Community Stadium, where Paul Vaughan slotted over a late drop goal on his farewell appearance before retirement.

The Knights - looking to solidify a 10th-place finish in their debut Super League season - had Scott Galeano sent to the sin bin after just 13 minutes following a tip tackle on Phoenix Steinwede, with Bulls then having a try for full-back Caleb Aekins ruled out for a forward offload.

Ryan Sutton made the breakthrough to score the opening try for Bradford after 17 minutes, with Chris Atkin slotting over the extras. The lead, though, was short-lived as Galeano marked his return to the action by showing quick feet to then dive over.

Ben Jones-Bishop, who was given a guard of honour ahead of making his 400th career appearance, added another try for the home side, with Cody Hunter converting for a 12-6 lead.

Bradford rallied again as Riley Dean latched on to a spilled kick to touchdown, but York responded again just before half-time as Toa Mata'afa burst down the middle to send the Knights into the break 18-12 ahead.

Bulls prop Ebon Scurr saw his try early in the second half ruled out for an obstruction, before York got themselves over the line again on 51 minutes when Jesse Dee touched down a deft low kick from Paul McShane.

York were in again when Bradford spilled another high ball and Xavier Va'a slid over before David Nofoaluma also capitalised on poor handling to dot down in the 67th minute.

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Jayden Okunbor went over to give Bradford a late consolation try with five minutes left before Australian prop Vaughan, 35, slotted over a drop goal - sparking wild celebrations from his York team-mates.

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Leigh Leopards v Wakefield Trinity - 8pm (Sky Sports+)

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