Challenge Cup spirit defined as community club share message after being ‘battered’ 110-0

After the second round of the Challenge Cup threw up some one-sided scores, one of those ‘battered’ teams have had their say.

With Championship clubs seeded, it meant that 16 of the 18 ties in the second round of the Challenge Cup pitted a community club against a Championship side.

All 16 Championship clubs won in those games with the aggregate score being 966-76, or an average margin of victory of just over 55 points. Two games were won by double that as two scores of 110-0 were registered, including Midlands Hurricanes’ win over Aberavon Fighting Irish.

Aberavon were the only Welsh community club to feature in this year’s competition and after beating Irish side the Broncos in round one, their Challenge Cup journey ended in round two.

Despite it ending in such a one-sided and brutal fashion, the Welsh club have taken to social media to share a message that underlines the important of maintaining the Cup, despite obvious questions over such one-sided scorelines.

“Stay in the memory for ever” – Community club upbeat despite huge Challenge Cup loss

Midlands ran in 20 tries, converting 15 of them, but Aberavon weren’t disheartened after the match.

Taking to X, they posted: “Yes, we got battered but occasions and experiences like yesterday stay in the memory for ever. A timely reality check as to where we are on our journey – but we’ll keep building, undeterred. 300 kids playing the greatest game in our town is testimony to that. Keep the faith!”

They also paid tribute to their own players, many of whom had played rugby union the day before, whilst others had just got off 12-hour night shifts, highlighting the incredible efforts that players at the community level go to in order to play the sport they love.

A tribute was also paid to hosts Midlands, who Aberavon championed as another side outside of the heartlands and making an impact.

Posting on X, they said: “Thanks too, to our hosts @HurricanesRLFC for their warm welcome on and off the field of play.

“What Mike, Eorl & colleagues are developing is hugely exciting, as we all look to spread the RL gospel beyond the traditional heartlands. We wish you well with your endeavours. Pob lwc!”

So when the debate sparks again about how to ‘fix’ the Challenge Cup, perhaps we have to realise that there is no perfect formula and what we currently have does still allow for magical moments. Take it from a team who lost 110-0 and remain upbeat on the competition and the sport.

Check out the latest episode of The Serious About Rugby League Show on our YouTube channel here.

Yes, we got battered but occasions and experiences like yesterday stay in the memory for ever. A timely reality check as to where we are on our journey – but we’ll keep building, undeterred. 300 kids playing the greatest game in our town is testimony to that.
Keep the faith!

— Aberavon Fighting Irish RLFC (@AberavonClub) January 26, 2026