Dom Dean makes three forced changes following a bruising round one encounter with Warrington
After a spirited 24-8 defeat against local rivals Warrington in round one, attention now turns to this weeks opponents Salford RLFC.
There was plenty of positives on display for Widnes last week, who enjoyed their first taste of Championship action following the teams promotion from League One.
The Widnes forward pack went toe to toe with Warrington’s for large periods and earned praise from the oppositions coaching staff after the final whistle.
Team news
Vice captain Jenny Moss and prolific try scorer Naoimh Gill-Ward drop out of the squad having sustained head injuries in last weeks fixture. Both players played the full 80 minutes, but now have to follow head injury protocols meaning they will miss this weeks action.
In replacement Carraghan Hannon and Hannah Goulbourne come onto the bench returning from their own injuries. Juliet Porter slots in at Centre, whilst Codie Slack will pick up Loose-forward duties.
Promising talent Marnie-Lee Kelly makes the switch from Centre to Half-back and Hollie Jones slots in at Full-back, allowing Hannah Quirk to cover the vacant Wing position.
Hooker Lilly Wilkinson is also unavailable for this weeks fixture, Simone Hart returns from injury to replace the England Community star on the bench.
Lessons learned
Despite being all the better for the experience of coming up against high level opposition in Warrington last week, coming out on the wrong side of the scoreline is not on the agenda for this growing group.
Captain Aimee Wood spoke on the Forge Podcast about the teams ambition to consolidate at Championship level. The group are determined to put preasure on the play-off places in 2026.
More fluidity in attack is needed from the Vikings to hurt opponents when on top in games. Points are preasure in Rugby League and if the spine of the team can click in attack, matched with the groups intensity down the middle Widnes will be a force in 2026.
Salford RLFC
Last years fourth placed finishers in the Championship will be looking to secure their first victory of the season. Salford are yet to play a league game after last weeks scheduled fixture with Manchester Swinton Lionesses was postponed to a later date.
Salford have faced an uncertain off season, which has resulted in some player departures, however a core group of experienced players remain at the club as they look to secure another play-off finish.
Plenty young talent has arrived at the club and they will be determined not to open their 2026 account with a loss.
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