Ah Van extends Widnes deal

Widnes winger Patrick Ah Van has signed a new two-year contract extension at the Stobart Stadium.

Ah Van, 25, was the Vikings’ top try scorer on their return to Super League last season with 16, but has endured an injury hit 2013 so far.

Head coach Denis Betts said: “The Widnes fans love him. I think it’s something to do with his big hair and beard!

“When he was at Bradford, I could see something in his game and I was keen to work closely with him. Over the past two seasons, I think it’s fair to say that we’ve definitely reaped the rewards of bringing him here to Widnes.

“Pat is a great acquisition, and it is a real positive for the club to be able to keep him here and ensure that he is an active part of what we are growing into.”

Ah Van previously had a year with Bradford, who he joined at the start of 2011 from New Zealand Warriors, where he spent five years playing in the NRL.

He said: “I just wanted to establish a name for myself on the other side of the world. I enjoyed my time at the Bulls but since my move to Widnes, I think I’ve really progressed as a player and I know there are still a lot of improvements left in my game.

“I was delighted to be offered a new deal. This club is really on the way up and we’re only going to get better.”

The Samoan international has scored seven tries and 22 goals in eight appearances so far this season, and is hoping to play in the World Cup at the end of the year.