Vikings are favourites: Haven boss.

Aug 22 2008 Runcorn and Widnes Weekly News

MARC Jackson is still suspended as Whitehaven boss Ged Stokes attempts to plot a victory that would see his side finish above the Vikings in The Co-operative National League One.

Stokes said: “Our two goals are a bit of form and keeping our players healthy.

“Widnes have to go into the game as hot favourites, considering their recent form.”

Vikings scrum-half Matty Smith has responded to treatment on a hip injury, meaning Steve McCormack is likely to have a full-strength squad to select from.

McCormack said: “We are not mathematically there (in the Co-operative National League One play-offs) yet, so it is still all to play for this Sunday.”

Batley need to pull off a huge shock at home to Neil Kelly’s Leigh Centurions if Vikings are to finish higher than their current fifth to secure a home draw.

But McCormack stressed: “Whatever happens in Yorkshire, we will just look after ourselves and we know what we need to do.

“Come 5pm Sunday we will know who we will be playing and will re-assess our goals from there.”