Delighted CEO Rule hails the club’s ‘inspirational performance’ in victory
● WIDNES CEO James Rule has released a statement praising the Vikings’ “inspirational performance” after they gained their first victory of the season at Leigh on Saturday.
Rule has previously appealed for unity amongst the fans in the face of the crippling injury crisis facing the club.
He believes the showing against Leigh augurs well for the team moving forward as injured players begin to filter back into the line-up.
Rule said: “I’d like to take the opportunity to congratulate our players and coaching team following a special victory against Leigh Centurions.
“I’ve had the pleasure of enjoying some very proud nights at this club. However, I’ve never witnessed a more inspirational performance than this one in all my years in professional sport.
“The grit, effort and talent on display was something to behold.
“We entered the fixture facing real adversity. Our recent injury troubles are well documented and, as I stated recently, were on a scale greater than anything I’ve ever experienced in my career.
“To have that situation compounded by a run of casualties in the match, resulting in us losing all interchange options, made the performance and victory all the more inspirational.
“I’d like to commend the players and coaching team for this performance. They epitomised what our club is all about: a close-knit and hard-working group, who make people proud to be part of the Vikings family.
“It was also special to note that six of the players who contributed to the result were products of our Academy, including our 17-year-old debutant, Danny Walker.
“In this game, we saw the fruits of our investment into our Academy system in recent years and the dedicated efforts of the people who’ve supported it.
“Finally, as many will know, I called for unity and support recently as we battled through the challenging run of injuries we faced.
“I’d like to thank all the Members and supporters who have stuck by us at this time.
“We’re looking forward to seeing the light at the end of the tunnel of this difficult spell soon – and Denis (Betts) having a more positive selection headache.
“We’re aspiring to build on this momentum in the weeks ahead. Our next home fixture will be against Warrington Wolves on April 13 and we’re aiming to achieve a record Thursday night crowd for what is sure to be a sensational event.
“Please bring your friends and cheer on the boys – I know they’ll be looking to make you proud again.” ● Next Thursday’s fixture against Warrington will see indie band Space performing some of their hits before the game and at half-time.