Question time for O'Connor

Nov 29 2007 by Dave Bettley, Runcorn and Widnes Weekly News

VIKINGS fans will have the opportunity to quiz the club’s new management for the first time at a forum next Thursday at Halton Stadium.

Owner Steve O’Connor will be joined by his two big off-the-field signings, chief executive Alex Bonney and head coach Steve McCormack, as well as Halton Borough Council chief executive David Parr.

Vikings’ 2008 kit will be unveiled and Mr O’Connor will tell fans about the sponsorship plans for next year.

Their approach has already drawn praise from senior figures in rugby league, who have been impressed by the manner in which they have gone about resurrecting the club.

But now they feel it is the right time to let the fans know about the work that has been going on.

Mr Bonney said: “There has been an enormous amount of activity behind the scenes to put important structures in place in time for the start of the new season and we are now in a position to share some of this information directly with our supporters.”

Increasing the club’s profile to reach outside the town for new support will be one of the key targets for the new management.

“We hope there will be a big turnout on the night because, as Steve has highlighted in recent interviews, success of this club depends on the support from people across the entire borough of Halton, Cheshire and South Merseyside,” said Mr Bonney.

“Vikings has a hardcore of loyal supporters who have backed the club through good times and bad.

“Now we want to attract even more people from right across the region to get behind the team and help secure our long-term future in rugby league.”

Fans will be able to question the panel on the night, but questions can also be sent in advance, by e-mail to widnesvikings@btconnect.com, or post them to the club at Halton Stadium before December 5.

The fans’ forum, which will be chaired by BBC’s Steve Roberts, starts at 7.30pm in the 450-seat Bridge Suite in the South Stand.

Demand is expected to be greater than the room’s capacity and tickets, which are free, are now available from Halton Stadium’s reception.

Tickets are limited to four per person.

Stand-off Tim Hartley became the 13th recruit for 2008 when he signed from Halifax last week.

The 21-year-old Leigh-born half-back will be familiar to Vikings fans as he was responsible for Widnes’ senior academy Grand Final defeat at the hands of his former club.

Hartley has played in Super League for Salford City Reds and Harlequins, but his opportunities at Halifax have been restricted by a broken ankle.

He said: “I’m really looking forward to playing for the Vikings.

“Steve McCormack’s building a strong squad for the future that can help the club fulfil its ambitions to, once again, be a major force in rugby league.”

More signings will follow as the 2008 squad takes shape, with former West Bank ARL youngster Ian Hardman expected to join his hometown club from St Helens.

Utility-back Hardman has seen his chances limited at Knowsley Road behind Great Britain full-back Paul Wellens, and has made most of his 51 appearances on the wing.

In 2007 the former Bankfield School pupil went to Hull KR on loan and made 18 appearances for the Robins, scoring 4 tries.

Hardman, who has one year left on his contract at St Helens, may initially join on loan.

Wigan Warriors will visit Halton Stadium on Sunday, January 27 for a pre-season friendly that will be invaluable for coach Steve McCormack in judging the progress of his squad before the 2008 season.

McCormack said: “It is important my players are tested against the very best that Super League has to offer if we are to successfully mount a challenge for the National League title.

“Wigan certainly will be tough opponents and this is a fantastic fixture for our fans and for the players who want to compete at the top level.”