Vikings seek positives after loss
February 04, 2012 11:20:45 UK
Widnes Vikings coach Denis Betts will hope to get the club's season up and running at the second attempt next weekend when they travel to Huddersfield.
The Vikings held an early lead against Wakefield yesterday evening but failed to capitalise on the advantage, eventually slumping to defeat. But former Wigan man Betts was keen to emphasise the positives.
"There were aspects I was disappointed with last night but also a few positives. We started strongly and we learned a lot, and, even though we lost, the experience will stand us in good stead for the rest of the season," said the Vikings boss, who revealed that new signings Sione Kite and Cameron Phelps are still some way from making their debuts.
"I'm pleased with the calibre of player we have at this club but we don't have the strength in depth that some of the other teams have. That's why I'm very keen for Cameron and Sione to be fully fit before they pull on a shirt.
"I need my players to play big minutes this season, week in, week out, and to do that they need to be conditioned and prepared properly. The last thing I want to do is rush players into action when they're not ready to play."
There were aspects I was disappointed with last night but also a few positives.
Denis Betts
Don't forget all of the fantastic markets we have to offer, including In-Play betting, can be accessed on your mobile phone with the new and improved Mobile at bet365.
Betts could welcome back experienced full-back Shaun Briscoe and Australian play-maker Anthony Watts for next Sunday's clash with the Giants.
The pair missed the opening-day defeat to Wakefield through injury but are believed to be in line to make their competitive debuts for the club next weekend.
Widnes are 1.44 to finish at the bottom of the regular season standings and 2501.00 to claim this season's Challenge Cup.
View all Rugby League betting