Celtic duo return for Vikings clash

May 22 2008 Runcorn and Widnes Weekly News

CELTIC Crusaders boss John Dixon expects to add Luke Dyer and Paul Ballard to the squad that lost 24-22 at Salford last week for Saturday’s Northern Rail Cup quarter-final at home to holders Widnes.

Dixon said: “We know all about Widnes. They’re a pretty good side and they have been for a long time.

“Smith, Beswick and Duffy are all dangerous while Gannon and Morrison make them a handful up front.”

Widnes coach Steve McCormack expects to name an unchanged 17.

Tim Hartley, Paul Noone and Tommy Gallagher are all still missing, although Gavin Dodd avoided suspension in midweek.

McCormack said: “It was very pleasing to get the win (in the league against Sheffield) last week without playing particularly well.

“This competition is very important for us. It was a goal we set at the start of the year, to retain the Northern Rail Cup.

“It’s very difficult to win the competition, as we found last season, but it’s vital we do well and get through to the next round of the competition.

“But we know that Celtic are a very good side with a very good kicking game.”