Vikings to make history at St Helens' new stadium (From Runcorn and Widnes World)

Vikings to make history at St Helens' new stadium

12:38pm Thursday 10th November 2011 in Vikings news

WIDNES Vikings have been given the honour of providing the opposition for the first match at St Helens’ new 18,000 capacity stadium.

The two teams - who shared the Stobart Stadium last term - will contest the now traditional Karalius Cup pre-season curtain-raiser on Friday, January 20.

The game, against last year’s Super League runners up, will give Vikings an early taste of what to expect in the year ahead in the top flight.

The Super League’s first round of fixtures takes place two weeks later over the weekend of 3/5 February.

Vikings coach Denis Betts said: “To play the 2011 Super League Grand Finalists in what will be the first game at their brand new stadium is a massive honour for this club and further proves the strong link we have with St Helens.

“Given the game is just a couple of weeks away from our 2012 Super League opener, going head to head with such quality opposition will also give us a greater understanding of how our pre-season has gone and where we’re at.

“As a player and a coach, I don’t think I’ve ever equated the words rugby league and friendly in the same sentence.

“Whenever you play this game you can’t go into it half-hearted and you have to give it full bore which is certainly how we’ll be treating it and I’ve no doubt whatsoever that it’ll be a real contest between the two teams.”

Both sides will be at full strength for the game and that means Saints fans are likely to see the debuts of Anthony Laffranchi, Lance Hohaia and Mark Flanagan.

Simmons added: “We’re delighted to welcome Widnes to our new home and I have no doubt it will be a good game.

“We will be well on with our season preparations and a game against a Super League club will be a real test. As a result, we will be putting out our strongest side.

“It’s also nice to welcome the Vikings to the stadium for this historic match as a thank you for their help and hospitality last season.”

Tickets will be available from both clubs and will go on sale soon.