WIDNES Vikings travel to Headingley on Friday night where they will face a Leeds side still battling to avoid the Middle 8s.

Although there is more riding on it for the reigning champions, who can still escape with two wins, Vikings boss Francis Cummins want to turn that pressure to his side’s advantage.

Although the points count for nothing for Vikings, a good performance and victory would give them a shot in the arm ahead of the 8s.

The game represents a return to Cummins’ old stamping ground - and one he is relishing.

Cummins said: “I am looking forward to visiting the ever changing Headingley. I think I will recognise the pitch and a bit of the Western Terrace, everything else is brand new.It is a bit of a strange one and I am looking forward to keeping the tension on that Leeds team.

“Our job is to start well and if we do that then we put all the pressure back on them because nobody expects us to do anything, although I know we can.

“Leeds are desperate to get some form. There is is no doubt that they have some players that you would like on your roster, but it shows you how momentum can affect it.

“They have been up and down the past few years, but in between have gone and won it.

“They have got all that experience but it is difficult when it goes against you, as we know, players start forcing themselves to do something big.”

Cummins feels the pressure is all on the Rhinos, but wants to see his players take the opportunities as the business end approaches.

“We know where we are going. We are looking for people to take opportunities to make us better.

“I know we are getting there - there is no task that we can’t achieve - we have to keep believing,” Cummins said.

Stef Marsh is seeing a specialist for his knee and is expected to be out for a couple of weeks.

Pat Ah Van, who played at North Wales at the weekend, could be given a chance to stake his claim, although Ryan Ince is also in the mix.