Widnes prevail 34-6 winners over Bradford Bulls despite the absence of key personnel
The remarkable form of Widnes continues, as Dom Dean’s girls secured a ruthless 34-6 victory over Bradford Bulls. The result now sends the team into the top four of the National Championship, having now won two of their first three games this season.
Widnes went into the break 10-0 ahead and looked good value for their lead. Bradford bravely battled against a Vikings onslaught, but it wasn’t enough as Widnes registered 24 second half points to cruise to victory.
Widnes was without both starting Back-rowers Chloe Richardson and Codie Slack. Codie was unavailable, whilst Chloe continues her neck injury recovery.
Hannah Whitehead, Evie Price-Horrocks and Sammy Traynor bravely played through the game carrying knocks, a shining example of the steel and determination of this team.
The return of Jenny Moss down the middle helped tighten the Vikings defence, whilst the return of Naoimh Gill-Ward added flair into the attack.
New signing Alise Gindra was mightily impressive on debut, the dynamic outside back is one to watch for supporters this season.
First half action
It was a professional performance early doors from Widnes. Forwards Hannah Whitehead, Tracy Peet and Jenny Moss set the tone down the middle dominating field position and making several line breaks.
Hooker Lily Wilkinson controlled the speed of the game off the back of the platform set by her aggressive forward pack.
Soon enough Widnes took advantage of their dominance as Juliet Porter barged over from close range. Youngster Marnie-Lee Kelly was second on the score sheet displaying some impressive footwork to dance her way over from 30 yards out.
The Vikings went in to the break smelling blood and good value for their 10-0 lead.
Second half action
The second half began and Widnes come firing out of the starting blocks, putting the Bulls under immediate preasure.
Once more the Vikings forward pack marched Bradford down field and a beautiful set move organised by captain Aimee Wood put Hannah Quirk in for a the first try of the second half.
Shortly after Wood assisted again, this time feeding twin sister Hannah Whitehead an inside ball and the Prop stormed over the try line.
The Vikings was hitting their straps and soon enough they was on the Bulls try line again. Lilly Wilkinson shifted the ball right to Hollie Jones who glided over the try line.
Bradford simply had no answer to the Vikings firepower in attack, once more the Widnes pack powered down the field and as a result Tracy Peet crashed over from close range to make the scoreline 30-0.
The Bulls remained spirited and grabbed a consolation try as Back-row Georgie Connolly crashed over from close range, however it was Widnes who had the final say as Marnie-Lee Kelly broke clear and finished under the posts to cap off a 34-6 victory.
It was a performance to be proud of and yet another indication that women’s Rugby League within the town is alive and thriving.
Squad versatility
The most impressive element of the afternoons action was no doubt the ability of players to perform at a high level out of position.
Centre Rachael Porter covered one Back-row position and did not take a backwards step, whilst Simone Hart battled all afternoon on the other side of the field.
Winger Evie Price-Horrocks slotted in at Centre and did not look out of place.
Hooker Lily Wilkinson thrived off being given the green light to start the game. Usually a force off the bench, Lily dictated the game from the middle of the field and took her game to another level.
There are numerous examples of the versatility within this team and head coach Dom Dean will have a selection headache ahead of round four away at Hull KR.
National Championship results
Bradford Bulls 6-34 Widnes Vikings
Oulton Raidette’s 14-30 Manchester Swinton Lionesses
Cardiff Demons 70-0 Castleford Tigers
Hull FC 6-44 Warrington Wolves
London Broncos 66-0 Salford RLFC
Sheffield Eagles 20-10 Hull KR
National Championship league table
