Vikings snap up former foe Webster

Sep 26 2008 by Paul Glynn, Runcorn and Widnes Weekly News

WIDNES Vikings have bolstered their squad once more with the acquisition of Australian half-back James Webster.

Vikings fended off competition from six other clubs, in both Super League and The Co-operative National League One to sign the 29-year-old on a two-year contract.

Webster arrives at the Stobart Stadium Halton having spent the last four years on Humberside playing for both Hull KR and Hull FC, the latter on a short-term contract at the end of this season.

Widnes fans may remember Webster from his performances for the Robins where he played an integral part in gaining them promotion in 2006 – with a scintillating performance in the Grand Final, against Vikings, at the Halliwell Jones Stadium.

Terry O’Connor, Widnes’s sporting director, who played in that game said: “I still can’t bring myself to forgive him for ruining my last competitive game which would have taken Widnes into Super League!

“On a serious note, he has been a stand-out player for Hull KR over the years and also the best player in the National League in 2006, when I played against him.

“Hopefully, he can bring that form and professionalism to the club and take us to the next level whilst showing our juniors what it takes to become a top player both on and off the pitch.”

Vikings’ head coach Steve McCormack said: “James is a terrific player and is somebody I have had in mind for a number of years.

“He is a proven performer at the top level, a natural leader and is an outstanding signing.”

Webster is now looking forward to the challenge.

“I’m really excited about the move.

“I met Steve McCormack and Steve O’Connor and was really impressed with their plans for the future.

“All the Clubs I have spoken to had some good points to offer but Widnes was the best.”

He added: “I’ll be travelling over with Iain Morrison who was at Hull KR for two years with me and we’ll pick up Jim Gannon along the way.

“Jim and I made our first-grade debuts together for Balmain Tigers in 1999 so we go back a long way, as well as spending time together at KR.”