The sending off was correct in my opinion and it just about saw off our chances. Sheffield were the better team. They deserved to win, with a bigger, faster and stronger team. There were some good tries from both sides. Also, once again, too many basic errors from Widnes.
I just hope that we can field a better team next year, capable of a top 6 finish, but the signs are not good with the rumoured departures and signings. Maybe we are just a mid-table Club. In which case, the Club can look forward to mid-table attendances in 2024.
If the Club want to retain the support, they really need to show some ambition; or simply admit, the funds are not there to build a team capable of competing in the Championship.
I thought Gilmore actually had quite a good game. He has a clever short kicking game and put it on display when we cut loose in desperation towards the end. I notice he generally played better when Craven was absent, so he could assert himself more. With Craven gone we should benefit next season. Same will apply if Lawton leaves; as usual he was the same mixture of asset and liability against Sheffield. If only we could avoid basic errors we have the makings of a decent team.
Dixon deserves a mention. Best runner on the field. Fleming on the other hand never beats a man.
agree re Fleming, he was good last year but has been anonymous this year.
If you think back to the Academy games Owens and Gilmore were very often in the same side and as you say we got a few flashes of clever chip and chase efforts, including Dixon in the mix. These could be a real threat against 'fast off the line' defences.
Owens looks to be getting more involved in the middle, maybe a switch to loose forward/hooker reserve?