Old boys offer tough cup test

Feb 7 2008 by Ian Cheveau, Runcorn and Widnes Weekly News

VIKINGS boss Steve McCormack says Sunday’s home Northern Rail Cup clash with Leigh Centurions (3pm) is a “massive test” for his squad.

The Vikings will be up against an experienced Centurions side including a host of former Widnes stars such as Dennis Moran, Toa Kohe-Love, Lee Doran and Gareth Price.

But the Widnes head coach is more than confident that his young squad can tackle whatever the Centurions throw at them head on.

He said: “It’s going to be a massive test for us as we are a new side but it’s one we are relishing.

“We have a very good blend of youth and experience at Widnes. The older heads are helping the younger players and it’s working.

“For the younger players it will be a good marker for them to test themselves against some really good players.

“I have been very impressed with the dedication and application of all our young players. We have some experience behind them with the likes of Jim Gannon, Paul Noone, Mark Smith and Bob Beswick and they are almost like mentors to them.

“Playing National League rugby is a big step up for youngsters but they have done well so far.”

Aussie prop forward Jim Gannon says he is enjoying the extra responsibility of guiding some of his juniors around the park but admitted he may have to hold them back come Sunday.

He said: “It’s good to know players are looking up to me. If I can pass on some of my experience to them then so be it – but the players are here in their own right. They are good enough and they have shown that already.

“Just look at them and how they fared against Wigan, who are a big physical side and they all improved again last week at Blackpool.

“We can’t wait for the National League season to start and once it does we can really kick on.

“But we are just focusing on Sunday at the moment as Northern Rail Cup is a very important competition to us and we want to retain it.”

Leigh coach Darren Shaw says the Centurions have their eyes firmly fixed on turning Widnes over.

He said: ‘We have got to step it up from our win against Barrow and the players know that.

“It’s going to be a really tough game and there is a lot to think about between now and kick-off.

“You don't get many opportunities to win a piece of silverware and, make no mistake, we've put this high on our list of priorities.

“Widnes are a very good team and from what I saw against Wigan they have an excellent pack and I know Steve McCormack will have his team well prepared.

“So it’s going to be a good test for us.”

The Vikings will pick from a fully-fit squad after coming through the Blackpool Panthers victory with a clean bill of health.