Crompton relishes big game experience

Jan 31 2008 Runcorn and Widnes Weekly News

Neil Barraclough previews the opening weekend of the 2008 Northern Rail Cup.

BLACKPOOL Panthers’ coach Martin Crompton will be without John Boland and Scott O'Brien through injury for Sunday’s visit of Widnes to Fylde RUFC.

Keiron Seeds misses the season opener due to a one-match suspension.

Crompton, a former Vikings skipper and assistant coach, said: “We're making slow progression and as long as we keep doing that then hopefully we're going to improve. It's all about performances and getting results. The first goal is getting the first win.

“I'm delighted with the quality of some of the signings we've made and the experience we've got, but I do know we need at least another three or four players.

“I'll be watching the tape of Widnes' game against Wigan later this week. They're a big club and they're full-time professionals so straight away they've got an advantage, but we're just looking at our own performance.

“We want to give a good account of ourselves and make sure we compete.”

Vikings' boss Steve McCormack is urging his new-look team to look to Widnes' past for inspiration ahead of Sunday's trip to Blackpool.

He said: “We're defenders of this competition. We're really proud of winning this tournament last year and we'll be doing everything we can to have another successful year in it.”