AFTER rejuvenated Widnes Vikings got their new beginnings off to a perfect start, the new board of directors have sent out a message of thanks.

The club were rescued last week after going into administration, but despite those doubts that had hung over them all week, the players responded with a 44-22 win over Featherstone Rovers.

The fans responded too, with the north stand packed out and singing their heads off for the full 80 minutes.

A statement issued by the board read: “Firstly, we want to thank you all for your support and efforts over the last week. Without this backing, today would not have been possible.

“To see fans queuing up in the pouring rain outside the South Stand, and seeing the Pat Price Stand sold out, was an incredible sight.

"To have almost 6,000 supporters inside the ground just days after the club fought off liquidation was the inspiration the players needed as they entered the field. If we are to be successful in 2019, we need you backing us every step of the way."

There was again praise for the fundraisers who have continued to collect and raise money to save the club.

“We want to wish a huge thank you to the Widnes Independent Supporters Society Limited for their bucket collection prior to the game this afternoon. We are overwhelmed by your continued generosity, and will reveal the exact money raised in the coming days," it read.

The players raised their game - and they produced the result which wiped out two of the 12 points deducted.

“It was a delight to witness such a fantastic performance, both on and off the field, against Featherstone Rovers this afternoon. You turned up in your numbers in the stand, and Kieron Purtill and the lads responded to that support with an outstanding display.

“There is a long way to go in the 2019 season, but if we are to pull ourselves away from the foot of the Betfred Championship table, we need to replicate the togetherness on display throughout the club this afternoon.

“We hope to see a good following getting behind the boys away at Barrow in a weeks time, and we look forward to seeing you all again at the Halton Stadium against Bradford Bulls on the 17th March,” said the board's statement.