Vikings raring to go (From Runcorn and Widnes World)

Vikings raring to go

5:22pm Friday 26th February 2010 in

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WITH qualification for the Northern Rail Cup knock-out stages secured Vikings turn their attention to the big Championship kick off on Sunday.

They open their campaign with an intriguing tussle against newly promoted Keighley Cougars – a team who have won all their matches so far this season.

The Tykes will probably have extra motivation to carry on winning having been docked nine Championship points for going into administration in December.

That is of no concern to Vikings and coach Paul Cullen.

Cullen said: “Keighley are going well and that is on the back of a very successful season last year.

“That group of players are confident and know their systems inside out and they are obviously far better for it.

“Three wins out of three is pretty decent at any level, so they will be coming here looking to take a scalp.

“The players are committed to a cause and if you are not quite right there is a chance you can turned over.

“I don’t expect Keighley’s points deduction to be an issue for the players – I do expect a fully committed performance from the opposition.”

Prop Jim Gannon, who missed the trip to Swinton with a minor knee tweak, is expected to play.

But fellow front rower Steve Pickersgill is struggling with a bang on the neck, so Cullen is taking the cautious approach.

There are also doubts over Gareth Haggerty, who suffered an injury in a first minute collision with Shaun Ainscough on Sunday.

Ben Kavanagh is free to play after avoiding any further punishment following his dismissal against Barrow.

In the backs, Ainscough’s fine displays have resulted in him being recalled by Wigan Warriors.

The wingman has crossed four times in three games – and has really caught the eye.

Cullen said: “His attitude here has been superb and he has grabbed his opportunity with both hands.

“He has earned his recall back to Super League.

“But we now have Richard Varkulis fully fit and raring to go and Paddy Flynn is now only a week away.”

That last Sunday’s game was one of just two played in the competition – and that is a major bonus for Vikings.

Many of their Championship rivals will now have to play back-to-back rugby at some stage in the early spring.

“We are really pleased that the groundstaff made the effort to clear the pitch and that we got the game played, won and out of the way.

“It is difficult on a part time basis playing Sunday, Wednesday, Sunday, which is what other teams will now have to do.

“We are done, unbeaten and in a healthy position and our ‘for and against’ is good.

“We are now looking forward to the Championship before we pick up the Northern Rail again,” Cullen said.