Bowden believes beating Widnes is vital

Hull FC forward Josh Bowden feels that winning against Widnes Vikings later this week could give the Airlie Birds a real boost.

The Black and Whites were beaten 16-30 at home last week by Castleford, and Bowden believes that this week’s game has increased in significance as a result.

“It’s absolutely massive for us,” he told his club’s official website.

“We know we need a few wins to get a place in the top four secured, which is what we’re hoping to achieve.

“We’ve got a short turnaround, playing on Thursday night. It’s come around quickly but I’m sure we’ll be ready for it.”

Bowden returned to action last week having missed the last two games. Now he wants to make sure he nails down a first-team spot for the rest of the season.

He said: “I’ve got to play well and do everything that I can to stay in the team.”