Widnes welcome Goole in the very first clash of the Vikings

It will be a rather unusual afternoon for Widnes as they welcome for the very first time a team who share its name with the club. Despite the name controversy when first granted access to the League structure, Goole carry it into the Championship to help form the first clash of the Vikings.

For Allan Coleman it is another game and two more competition points at stake. Widnes enter the game in red hot form following an 18-12 away win at heavy spenders Oldham.

The Vikings secured a monumental win without captain Jack Owens and the injured vice captain Sam Wilde. Widnes also had Jack Bibby, Jumah Sambou, Joe Lyons and Jack Houghton on the side lines who was all available to play.

There is plenty of competition for places, but it is fair to say so far Allan Coleman has got his big decisions spot on and will want to make it four wins in a row.

The form of Goole

If a word described the season of Goole so far it would be inconsistent. The club have two wins from a possible four displaying an array of performances from good to bad.

Last time out they ran out 16-14 away winners against an unbeaten Dewsbury Rams team.

Their other league victory also came on the road against Swinton Lions, on the day securing a 28-24 victory.

Goole’s defeats came against Keighley Cougars and Midlands Hurricanes, being comprehensively beaten in both games.

One to watch (Connor Barley)

The 21-year-old flyer is in electric form, crossing for five tries in his first five appearances for Goole

He is playing full of confidence in his game and has a fearless approach. Barley is an exciting talent who joined the club from Hull KR this season.

He managed only one Super League appearance for the Robins, that came against St Helens where he helped himself to a try.

His impressive performances so far for Goole have already attracted interest from Super League clubs.

Widnes will have to be on guard and shut down Barley early to keep him quiet Sunday afternoon.