From heroic finishers to battling middles, the top 5 Widnes performers are ranked at the Championship half way stage
It has been a positive first half of the season for Allan Colemans team, who have registered 9 victories and 3 defeats so far in the League campaign, only suffering defeats to table toppers London Broncos, Doncaster and Barrow Raiders.
The Vikings have also booked their place in the semi finals of the 1895 Cup following a remarkable 30-20 quarter final victory over Newcastle Thunder, after trailing 18-0 at half time.
Widnes bowed out the Challenge Cup respectfully falling to a 25-12 defeat to Super League team Leeds Rhinos. A giant killing was within reach, however a masterclass performance by Brodie Croft was the difference between the two teams on the day.
As the half way point of the season approaches for Widnes, we take a look back at some of the biggest contributors to teams success to date on the field.
Ryan Ince (5)
In at five is the Vikings number 5 Ryan Ince. The prolific Winger has 12 tries in 15 appearances for Widnes this season and a total of 89 tries in Widnes colours.
Known for his exceptional finishing in tight spaces, Ryan has time and time again produced magic moments at key points in games this season to help his team secure vital victories.
His try scoring ability is on display for all to see, however his work rate returning the ball from back field arguably goes unnoticed amongst supporters. Ryan provides safety under the high ball and is one of the Championships most effective Wingers coming out of yardage.
Earlier on in the season he faced his critics with some supporters questioning had injuries hampered his confidence taking players on the outside?
It is safe to say he has silenced his doubters producing some incredible finishes, some that players at the top of the game would be proud of. There is no question an in form Ryan Ince puts firepower into the Vikings attack.
Nathan Connell (4)
In at four is new Full-back signing Nathan Connell. With 11 tries in 15 competitive appearances for Widnes it has been a remarkable debut season for the youngster in Widnes colours.
His running threat and burst of speed has been a breath of fresh air for supporters to watch. Nathan is a player growing in confidence as the season progresses, his support play is improving week on week and his vision to spot a gap and break the defensive line is becoming a trade mark trait.
Having stepped into the starting Full-back role on the eve of the season to fill the void of the departing Jake Maizen, Nathan has grabbed his opportunity with both hands and looks one of the most dangerous young talents amongst the Championship.
Arguably the most exciting element of Nathan is the fact he has his best years of his career still to come and plenty to learn about the game positionally. It is exciting for Widnes supporters to have such a talent with so much improvement still to come.
He is a player to watch for years to come.
Jordan Johnstone (3)
The Vikings tough, tenacious Hooker Jordan Johnstone slots in at number three. Consistently providing steel from the kick off in defence, Jordan is a key player that glues the team together throughout the 80 minutes.
His no nonsense approach and leadership can go unnoticed by supporters, however his teammates would suggest he is one of the first names on the team sheet.
His starting role at Hooker allows him to set the tone and tempo of the game with his forward pack, grinding the opposition down before handing over the reigns to Matty Fozard to exploit some tired bodies.
Once his duties are complete setting the platform, his regular switch to Loose-forward mid game provides Johnstone with an element of freedom in both attack and defence to express himself.
His defensive contributions, leadership and organisation is why he makes third position.
Dan Murray (2)
He can consider himself unlucky not to be top of the list but in second is the Vikings pack leader Dan Murray. Humble off the pitch and a fans favourite on it, Dan is arguably the Vikings most consistent player within the group.
Throughout his time at Widnes, Dan has earned himself the reputation of being one of the Championships top middles due to his determined carries and hard working nature.
He plays the most minutes out of the Widnes middles and that is because of how important his defensive work rate and brave carries are to the group, especially when the team are up against it during games.
The 2026 season for Dan has been no different to his others wearing a Vikings jersey, leading from the front, hungry for carries and immaculate defensively.
His performance against Goole Vikings summed up his attitude and quality perfectly, making an 80 metre cover tackle in the final moments of the game after scoring two tries on the day.
Any Front-rower would be more than happy contributing two tries to a game without the cover tackle, but not Dan.
He certainly is a strong contender to be a future Widnes Vikings captain.
Joe Edge (1)
Top of the rankings for the first half of the season is home grown talent Joe Edge. The powerful, destructive Centre oozes class and in my opinion has took over Kieran Gill’s mantle of the best Centre in the competition.
His 2 year contract extension was shrewd business by Widnes, as Joe approaches the prime of his career. 8 tries in 11 appearances this season is a prolific tally, highlighting his threat close to the try line.
The most impressive element of Joe’s performances is his carries from deep and the post contact metres he makes, putting his team on the front foot early in sets.
His second half individual display against Halifax was the most complete performance by any Widnes player this season as the powerful, dynamic Centre terrorised the tired Panthers defence.
Power and speed is one thing, but arguably Joe’s best attribute is his ability to remain calm under preasure, often reading a game in a split second. It is incredibly rare Joe makes a wrong call in attack or defence and he has no doubt become a talisman within the Widnes team.
