Widnes return to Dewsbury for the second time in a week, as attention turns to the 1895 Cup
The Vikings escaped Yorkshire with a 20-10 victory last weekend, securing two more crucial Championship points. Head coach Allan Coleman will be heartened with his teams first half display, racing into a 20-0 half time lead.
From here on Dewsbury improved, however it was Widnes who saw out the game, securing a much needed win after two back to back league defeats.
Form and league standings now go out the window, as the two teams meet again, this time in the 1895 Cup with the winner progressing to the next round.
With the pressure of returning back to winning ways in the league now off, a more expansive performance is now expected from Widnes to keep building confidence ahead of the clubs return to Championship action.
Points are a struggle for Widnes at times, and a confident performance ball in hand will go a long way to setting the Vikings up for the rest of the season.
Abdull absence
After a return to the starting line up last weekend, Jordan Abdull once again will be absent from the matchday team this weekend. Love Rugby League reported that the former Man Of Steel nominee is set to depart the DCBL Stadium for Championship rivals Sheffield Eagles.
Known for his powerful boot, Abdull has become a fans favourite during his time at the club, picking up several man of the match awards voted by supporters.
The Forge podcast will next week welcome Widnes Vikings director Matt Roberts, who will link up to answer supporters questions surrounding recent social media speculation.
No doubt Jordan Abdull will be a hot topic discussed alongside the departure of director Andy Horabin, the future of the stadium and much more.
One to watch (Paul Sykes)
This weeks one to watch is the returning Paul Sykes. The 44 year old is now into his 28th competitive season at professional level.
Despite his age, Sykes has been a thorn in the Widnes team on many occasions in seasons past and he will be looking to repeat the same trend this Sunday afternoon.
Dewsbury looked clunky at best when attacking the Widnes try line last weekend, and the game management of Sykes could be the difference in Dewsbury progressing to the next round.
Sykes will look to control the game from the boot and marshal his troops into the correct positions, allowing his pass selection to do the work.
The running threat of Leon Hayes is a crucial weapon for Widnes, he and Nathan Connell attacking Sykes at pace regularly could be the key in neutralising his threat.
Quiz
