Match Reports

Widnes suffer late heartbreak for the second consecutive week

By Mike Parsons

Posted on July 16, 2026

The race for Championship survival is on as Widnes fall to another agonising defeat

It was another nail-biting Sunday afternoon for Widnes as the group fell to a narrow 22-26 loss to Hull FC. Widnes come out the traps at speed racing into a 16-4 half time lead.

Marnie-Lee Kelly secured a brace on her return to fitness and opened the scoring, finishing in a tight space off the back of a well executed Hollie Jones cut out pass.

Hull FC responded quickly with a try of their own, however this was cancelled out by a barnstorming 40 metre break by Ellie Reid who touched down for her 5th Championship try of the season, taking the score to 10-4.

The Vikings dominance continued and once more a lose ball was gathered by Rachael Porter, who tipped the ball on to Marnie-Lee Kelly, who raced under the sticks for a 16-4 lead at the break.

The second half was quite a contrast, and it was Hull FC who raced out of the starting blocks with intent. Hull marched the Widnes defence several times down field, exposing some lazy defence on numerous occasions in the second half.

The Black and Whites scored three quick fire tries to turn the game on its head and send the visitors Infront 20-16.

The Vikings refused to accept defeat and responded with a try curtesy of Tina Millan on her debut. The new recruit performed bravely all afternoon, showcasing her Championship quality and experience. The Back-row come Centre looks to be a smart pick up by Dom Dean.

Agonisingly it was Hull FC who had the final say, diving over from close range in the final stages of the game to send the visitors back home to Yorkshire with a vital 26-22 Championship victory.

Harsh lessons to be learned

In two consecutive games, Widnes have suffered narrow defeats against opposition close to them in the league table. The Championship is unforgiving and lapses of concentration usually get punished.

Unfortunately for Widnes this lesson has been delivered twice in quick succession, despite producing moments of brilliance in both matches.

Solid defence is crucial in the Championship, and if the team are to continue progressing year on year, defence will be key.

Despite losing to two rivals in two consecutive weeks, Widnes possess a much more healthier goal difference compared to other clubs bellow them in the Championship table.

Widnes are spirited, despite defence costing the group in moments, collectively they work tirelessly and are a threat going forward.

These traits should serve the group well when it comes to securing Championship status at the first attempt.

Women’s Rugby League faces a league structure change ahead of 2027, which could see as many as three teams relegated into League One.

With a superior points difference compared to rival clubs, it is likely Widnes would still avoid the drop zone, which would be still an outstanding achievement in their first season in the Championship.