Leeds Rhinos were drawn Super League side Hull F.C. in the fourth round, winning the match and progressing to beat third-tier side Blackpool Panthers in what would be their final year of existence. The quarter finals saw the Rhinos beat eventual league champions who they had previously lost to both times in the league. The semi-finals also saw Leeds beat St Helens who came second in this season's league.
Following the match, the RFL announced the game was the first sell out Challenge Cup Final since it return to the new Wembley Stadium following the stadium completion in 2007.[5]