Widnes search for back to back Championship victories, as injury woes continue
Widnes take on Bradford next in search of back to back National Championship victories. The Vikings secured their first win of the 2026 season last time out against Salford RLFC.
The team displayed desire and togetherness, fighting back from a 16-8 half time deficit, to eventually run out 42-20 winners.
The Vikings put on a performance in the second half to be proud of unleashing their potential fire power in attack.
Team news
Loose-forward Jenny Moss and outside back Naoimh Gill-Ward make a return to action after following HIA guidelines. Jenny slots back in at Loose-forward whilst Naoimh will look to make an impact off the interchange bench.
Evie Price-Horrocks moves from the Wing to Centre, accommodating Alise Gindra who makes her Widnes Vikings debut on the Wing.
Strong running Back-row Codie Slack is unavailable, whilst the experienced Chloe Richardson continues to recover from a neck injury sustained against Salford RLFC.
Simone Hart is promoted from the bench to take up one of the vacant Back-row positions, whilst Centre Rachael Porter covers the other Back-row slot.
Opportunities to shine
The intensity of performance levels from Widnes has no doubt increased. The physicality of the Championship is clear to see and Widnes have tackled the challenge head on.
However brave, battling displays have come at a small cost for Widnes. Bumps and bruises have been sustained, whilst others have picked up more serious injuries.
Squad depth and the versatility of players is now called upon. This provides a fresh opportunity for players to step up and shine in senior players absences.
One element the forced changes provide is more speed to the Vikings team. With ball playing Loose-forward Jenny Moss returning alongside Half-backs Aimee Wood and Marnie-Lee Kelly an expansive approach could be on offer to help release the outside backs in attack.
Hollie Jones has looked dangerous from Full-back of late and her dynamic running threat will be a concern for Bradford if the Vikings playmakers can find her space.
Bradford Bulls
Bradford also sit on one win and one defeat this season. The Bulls secured a 22-8 opening day victory against local rivals Castleford Tigers, however fell to a 12-4 defeat to Hull KR in round two.
Widnes will be up against a stern Bradford defence, who make points a premium for opponents.
The creativity of the Widnes Half-back combination will be put to the test, as they are tasked with breaking down a stubborn Bulls defence.
Bradford are a seasoned Championship team who will want to avoid at all costs losing to a promoted Widnes Vikings team.
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