York Valkyrie boss Leon Pryce wants to move on quickly from 'devastating' Challenge Cup defeat
Leon Pryce was left devastated by the manner of York Valkyrie's Challenge Cup semi-final defeat to Wigan Warriors.
The holders produced the ultimate statement at Warrington's Halliwell Jones Stadium, running in nine tries to cement their status as the dominant force in the women's game.
York simply had no answer to last year's treble winners on their way to a humbling 52-0 defeat.
"It's devastating to lose in that manner," said Pryce.
"I don't think we quite did ourselves justice in the way that we prepared.
"But all credit to Wigan. They were fantastic and we couldn't handle them.
"We'll learn from it and move on."
York won back-to-back Women's Super League titles under Lindsay Anfield but the Warriors are the team to beat at the start of 2026.
Denis Betts' side were at their ruthless best on Saturday afternoon, mixing power with athleticism to swat the Valkyrie aside.
Ellise Derbyshire, Mary Coleman and Anna Davies each scored two tries, while Jenna Foubister, Ruby Hunter and Isabel Rowe all crossed once for the rampant Warriors.
Rowe finished with a 20-point haul after adding eight goals.
York's wait to experience Wembley goes on, with their sole Challenge Cup final appearance coming at Leigh in 2021.
Pryce must quickly pick his team up for Saturday's Super League opener at home to Huddersfield Giants.
Wigan, meanwhile, begin their title defence with a home match against Leeds Rhinos.
"We'll have to lick our wounds, get the team together and try to get the confidence back up," said Pryce.
"We'll review the video and move on to Huddersfield next week."