Stand and be counted

Feb 28 2008 by Ian Cheveau, Runcorn and Widnes Weekly News

THE television spotlight will fall on Widnes Vikings’ future this Sunday.

Chairman Steve O’Connor has issued another rallying call for Widnes fans get to Stobart Stadium Halton for what he stresses is a “big day” for the club.

Some sceptics may have see this weekend’s Northern Rail Cup clash against Blackpool Panthers as a no-contest but there is plenty to aim for both on and off the pitch.

The Vikings need to play themselves into form ahead of the Co-operative National League season, while the RL magazine programme Boots ‘n’ All comes to town.

O’Connor is urging Widnes fans to get behind the team in a bid to create an electric atmosphere which will make the world of rugby league and the viewing public sit up and take notice.

O’Connor said: ‘Sunday is a big day for Widnes Vikings in the grand scheme of things for the future of the club as Sky will be at the Stobart Stadium Halton to see exactly what we are doing to make the criteria for a licence.”

Reporter Angela Powers is currently working her way around Super League 2009 wannabees to cast her eye on which teams will meet the Rugby Football League’s strict Super League licence criteria.

It’s believed Sky have been waiting to visit Stobart Stadium to see if the club lives up to the level of expectation and excitement which has engulfed the Vikings since the arrival of O’Connor and his backroom dream team.

O’Connor added: “It’s no secret that we want to be in Super League next season and therefore Sunday’s game against Blackpool is an important one as it gives the club a valuable opportunity to give the world of rugby league an insight to what we have accomplished so far and we need to do to keep improving as a club.

“As fans will see we have completed the signage of the seats of two of our stands.

“We are in search for another two businesses or companies to come on board and sponsor the other two, or one of the two, stands and have their company name on the seats.”

Meanwhile, Widnes boss Steve McCormack hinted he will continue to shake things up on the field until he finds that winning formula.

He said: “I was very disappointed with how we played in the first half against Leigh and we have addressed this in training, both collectively and individually.

“We have moved on from that with Barrow but we know Blackpool won’t be push-overs either – far from it.”

McCormack has been in regular contact with former Widnes skipper Martin Crompton and reckons ‘Crommy’s’ troops will be looking for a reaction following last week’s disappointing result against the Raiders.

Widnes skipper Mark Smith will face a disciplinary hearing next week after his dismissal following a collision with Leigh’s Ian Watson at Hilton Park.

Smith is available for selection against Blackpool but there is still a doubt over the concussed Steve Roper.