Widnes support cancer charity

Widnes Vikings chairman Steve O’Connor has issued a rallying cry to fans to turn out and support the team in their next home match against 2009 Grand Finalists Halifax RLFC.

The game on Thursday March 18 (7.30pm kick-off) has been chosen to raise funds and awareness for male cancer charity Everyman which will see the team play in a specially-designed ‘naked’ kit.

Steve O’Connor said: “The visit of last season’s Grand Finalists is combined with the visit of the television cameras to Stobart Stadium Halton for the first time in 2010.

“A big, loud crowd is important to start to build the momentum in a year that we hope will end with Grand Final success – and being awarded a Super League licence for 2012.”

In 2009, the Vikings were the best supported club in the Co-operative Championship. Their average attendance – of 3,808 – was more than 50% higher than any other Championship club’s average.

Widnes are one of three Co-operative Championship clubs – along with Barrow and Halifax – who have met the first criterion of playing success that allows it to apply for a Super League licence after narrowly missing out last time.

Mr O’Connor added: “This is the first time this season we can really showcase what Widnes can do, both on the field and off it.

“Our support for Everyman is part of what we want to do as a socially-aware club, but first we are a rugby club that wants to win matches. The Halifax match enables us to do both and it promises to be a great night’s entertainment.”

Donations to Everyman can be made prior to the evening by going online to www.justgiving.com/widnesvikings

Tickets are on sale now priced from £7 for children and £13 for adults when bought before the day of the game and can be purchased from the O’Neills sports shop, Liebig Court, Widnes. Matchday tickets are £9 and £15 and will be sold from Stadium Fitness at Stobart Stadium Halton.