WIDNES Vikings boss Denis Betts has faith in his new half pairing of Tom Gilmore and Joe Mellor, writes Mike Critchley.

With Kevin Brown moving on to Warrington, Gilmore stepped into the number seven jersey for the first time last week in the festive friendly.

And although the coach liked what he saw, Betts believes Gilmore now needs to have a run of games to settle into the role.

Betts said: “Tom had a couple of passes and kicks that opened Warrington up. His game management was good, his kicking game built some pressure and he made some good decisions with the ball and was composed.

“It was nice to see him feel that confident with that number 7 on his back. He is a typical half back.”

Gilmore’s ability does not come as a surprise to anyone at the club, with the 22-year-old’s progress having been monitored closely since joining.

Betts added: “He is not a junior any more. He came into the group as a 16 or 17-year-old English school boy has had a couple of injuries and then the opportunity did not come his way “But he has been patient and has gone out on loan, playing in London in the Championship.

“He is a typical half back — he’s cocky and has a great belief in his own ability.

“Now he just needs a run of games and an opportunity.”

The player himself felt no extra pressure with his promotion, but admitted there was plenty for him to work on.

“I must admit that I enjoyed walking into the changing room before the game and seeing ‘Gilmore 7’ on the back of the shirt hanging in my space,” he said.

“To be honest though, I don’t think I played any differently than what I have done in the past or will do in the future.

“I thought I held my own and played okay in the game but there’s still stuff for me to work on.”

Although Vikings lost the friendly against the Wolves, Betts was pleased with the direction the playing group is heading in, especially with some of the younger members.

Betts said: “The Chapelhows are 20 years of age and just coming out of the other side of being a year in the Championship.

“They look like players who can step up and fill a hole really easily and push for places in the starting spot.

“This is what we have been looking to build.”

As a general assessment of playing style the coach observed: “We need to run harder and carry the ball.

“We need more offload in our game but that comes from confidence and we need to be committed.

“I want the team to be able to play and create opportunities.”

Joe Mellor sustained a knee injury during the Festive Derby against Warrington Wolves.

A statement released by the club read: “He is currently wearing a knee brace and will be assessed by a specialist next week.

“The club remain confident that Joe will be fit for the start of the forthcoming Betfred Super League campaign.

“The club will be making no further comment at this stage.”