Celtic coach admires Vikings’ quality

Apr 24 2008 Runcorn and Widnes Weekly News

CELTIC Crusaders coach John Dixon admits he has been impressed by Widnes Vikings’ start to the season ahead of the Welsh side’s visit to Stobart Stadium Halton on Sunday.

Dixon believes the fact his side played Leeds Rhinos in the Carnegie Challenge Cup last week will stand them in good stead against Steve McCormack’s men.

Dixon said: “We did a pretty good job and as a team we probably learned a lot more because of the quality of the opposition.

“That’s important because I think Widnes are the form team in this competition.

“I’ve watched them play over a couple of weeks and they’ve been particularly good.

“Beswick and Smith are elite players and they’re very cool under pressure. They’re a quality footy team that I admire a lot.”

Celtic’s Jordan James will be missing because of a one-match suspension.