WIDNES Vikings second rower Sam Wilde cannot wait to get the Championship campaign up and running on Sunday.

He has praised the team for carrying out what they have practised in training during their pre-season fixtures.

Wilde featured in victories against Castleford and North Wales Crusaders, scoring a try in their last outing before the start of the 2020 season last Sunday.

The Vikings number 11 is now looking ahead to the start of the season, as they make the trip to Oldham in Round 1 on Sunday, 2 February.

Wilde said: “Training has been really good - and we’ve done a lot of work with the ball in pre-season.

“There’s still things to work on - but it is good to put those things into practice on the field.”

He praised the newcomers to the group - including new coach Tim Sheens’ input.

“The lads are a good bunch and have come together well with a good coaching staff and we are ready to kick on for the season.

“Everyone who has come in has impressed, both in pre-season training and in the friendlies.

“It will certainly create competition and push everyone along,” he said.

Tickets for Widnes Vikings opening game of the 2020 Betfred Championship season against Oldham RLFC are now on sale.

Sheens takes his side to Bower Fold for his first competitive fixture in charge of the club, as the Vikings kick-start their campaign away from home.

Last season, a black and white army descended on Oldham to cheer the lads on to a 54-14 victory in the Challenge Cup, with another huge following expected this time out.

Tickets are on sale from the Club Shop, located within Widnes Indoor Market, with the Vikings retaining 20 per cent of all sales made directly through the club.

Wilde expects another big backing from the Viking hordes.

“What they did for us last year was unbelievable, but we are looking to build on that and repay them.

“I am excited to get out on to the field,” he said.

The Vikings Learning Centre are currently enrolling for their 19+ Level 1 Certificate in Employability Skills, helping young adults gain the confidence and tools to find employment in the future.

The course takes place at the DCBL Stadium every Wednesday, 10am-2pm, with enrollment now open for those aged 19 or above.

Contact Charlotte McPartland on 0151 495 2250 or charlottep@widnesvikings.co.uk for information or to arrange enrollment.