2:24pm Wednesday 17th March 2010
By Mike Critchley
VIKINGS’ unbeaten start to the season faces a tough test on Thursday night when title rivals Halifax head to the Stobart Stadium.
The game between two of only three sides who have so far ticked the Super League application box also marks Vikings’ first game in front on the television cameras this season.
Coach Paul Cullen expects to field a side not too dissimilar to the one that pulled off a great win at Sheffield on Sunday. He is under no illusions that Halifax present a formidable challenge – particularly given their shorter four-day turnaround preparing for the game.
Cullen said: “Halifax are even stronger than they were last year. Stanley Gene adds to their team, as does Mikali Aizue. Dominic Maloney is now a permanent signing and Paul White has played Super League at a high level and is quite quick whether on the wing or full back.
“They claim to have improved with their recruitment process – but we would like to think we have as well. So it all points to being a rough and tough and intense contest.”
Vikings go into the game in buoyant mood after their solid start to the year in all three competitions. Cullen said: “I don’t think we will get back any of our injured players back but we are healthy and strong.
“In the last game against Halifax we went in it without Mark Smith at hooker – probably the first game he had missed for a while. We played Anthony Thackeray at number nine, which caused a few eyebrows to be raised.
“He was outstanding that night and we rattled up 50 points so we have got a record of not being at full strength against Halifax and coming away with a win.
“If we are tested that way again then I am sure we can handle it.”
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