A clinical first half display from the Wolves is enough to secure a league double over Widnes

It was a first half to forget for Widnes, who struggled to get a foot hold in the first half. Errors at crucial times for the Vikings in attack released preasure on the Wolves defence.

Opportunities was plenty ball in hand for Widnes in the opening stages, however the final pass deep in Warrington’s half of the pitch found the floor, handing possession back over to Warrington.

To Warrington’s credit the Widnes handling errors was punished clinically. Experienced Half-back Michelle Davis controlled proceedings at Stand-off, unpicking the Vikings defence on numerous occasions.

The Warrington forward pack gained momentum and the ruck speed was simply too fast for Widnes. At a rapid rate, Warrington racked up 32 unanswered points, including a first half half Taneisha Fairbrother hat-trick.

Widnes was staring down the barrel of a first blow out score of the season, as Warrington went in at the break good value for their 32-0 lead.

Second half character and resilience

Some stern words was delivered at half time to a Vikings team that had let their usual defensive standards slip. The mountain to climb was huge, and the next 40 minutes was all about pride and character.

As this group have displayed on several occasions this season they stood up to the challenge. Line speed significantly improved and Widnes began to take the game to Warrington.

Strong carries from the Widnes middle unit got the team back into an arm wrestle. Widnes enjoyed more field position and Ellie Reid took advantage with a trademark, powerful run to crash over from close range. Aimee Wood converted to take the scores to 32-6.

Shortly after Warrington responded taking the scores to 38-6, however it was Widnes who had the final say as a smart kick on the inside by Aimee Wood, found the on running Rachael Porter to touch down taking the full time score to 38-12.

Positives to take moving forward

There is no shying away from the fact the first half display was sub standard by a Widnes team who have competed in every challenge they have faced during the 2026 season so far, however coach Dom Dean can be heartened by his teams second half response.

The second half scoreline finished 12-6 in the Vikings favour, a clear indication if errors and line speed are fixed up, the team can compete with the leagues best.

Pride was on display in abundance by the Widnes team, who fought tirelessly to avoid the scoreline blowing out. That pride and passion is why Widnes are now odds on favourites to avoid the three team drop zone following Hull KR’s 36-0 victory over Castleford Tigers.

Come the seasons end, Widnes will be better for the exposure of playing in the 2026 National Championship as they look to learn from their experiences.

National Championship results

Hull FC 24-24 Sheffield Eagles

Oulton Raidette’s 38-0 Bradford Bulls

Castleford Tigers 0-36 Hull KR

Cardiff Demons 10-20 London Broncos

Salford RLFC 4-78 Manchester Swinton Lionesses

Warrington Wolves 38-12 Widnes Vikings

Image Credit: Jack Ettinger