Another player awarded her debut as Widnes look to bounce back from two back to back defeats for the first time in 2026
The Vikings return to action this weekend as they take on Hull FC, in what promises to be another entertaining afternoon of National Championship action.
Last time out Widnes suffered an agonising 26-24 away defeat to Oulton Raidette’s in what was a frustrating afternoon for the Vikings.
Despite the disappointment, Widnes displayed quality moments in attack, something the group will want to build on for this weekends clash as they look to bounce back to winning ways.
Widnes team news
Dom Dean makes two changes to his match day 17 player squad that is set to take on Hull FC. Winger Alise Gindra drops out of the team, as the Vikings welcome back allusive outside back Marnie Lee-Kelly.
Tina Millan is awarded her first start in Widnes colours following her transfer from Warrington Wolves, she replaces Simone Hart in the Back-row.
Tactical changes are also made to the team after the narrow defeat against Oulton Raidette’s two weeks ago.
Hannah Whitehead returns as a starting middle, whilst Chloe Richardson switches to Prop and Tracy Peet transfers to Back-row from the Front-row.
Vickie Grace drops to the bench, whilst exciting young talent Megan Wall retains her place in the starting 17 after a promising debut.
The form of Hull FC
Hull enter the game 2 points behind Widnes in the National Championship table. A 24-20 victory against Bradford Bulls and a 28-16 victory against Salford RLFC last time out leave Hull FC 8th in the table, one place behind Widnes.
The result pattern of Hull is extremely similar to that of the Vikings, with both teams falling to narrow defeats against Hull KR and suffering similar margin defeats against Cardiff Demons.
Both teams have also run out winners against Bradford Bulls and Salford RLFC.
Line speed and unforced errors the key for Widnes
Despite the teams clear attacking ability, the visit to Oulton was a frustrating one for head coach Dom Dean.
Unforced errors at key moments in the game cost the Vikings, with slow line speed inviting further preasure. Individually there was some monumental defensive displays in the middle, however to be victorious against a physical Hull team, the defensive unit must work as one.
A more functional defensive line and a lower error count will allow the Vikings to enjoy more field position to put Hull under preasure.
Players like Hannah Quirk, Aimee Wood, Hollie Jones and Jenny Moss have the ability to open up any defence, however defensive efforts of the team must match the attacking threat of the Vikings for them to bounce back to winning ways.
