REPORT: WIDNES VIKINGS 0-8 FEATHERSTONE ROVERS

The Vikings fell to an 8-0 defeat to Featherstone Rovers at the DCBL Stadium this afternoon.

Allan Coleman’s side suffered their first defeat in four matches on an afternoon where they failed to register a single point.

The Vikings were in control for much of the first half, having had two tries pulled back by the referee.

Ryan Ince was first denied a try with Ryan Lannon being adjudged to have obstructed a Featherstone defender.

Matt Fleming then looked to be in for a certain try as he raced away following a pass that went to ground from the visitors, only for it to be pulled back for a knock-on in the build-up from the Vikings.

The visitors then saw Gadwin Springer sent to the bin for dangerous head contact with Fleming.

Despite the man advantage the Vikings could not capitalise and it was Featherstone who struck first as Ben Reynolds intercepted Lucas Green’s pass to cross under the posts.

The visitors extended their lead to eight early in the second half as Reynolds knocked over the penalty goal after Lyons was penalised for touching the ball from an offside position.

The Vikings looked to be back in it through Mike Butt but he was denied after an excellent last-ditch tackle from Hardcastle forced him into touch.

Gadwin Springer was shown another yellow card in the dying stages of the game for a late hit on Jordan Johnstone but Featherstone held on for an 8-0 win at the DCBL Stadium.

The Vikings turn their attention to a trip to the DIY Kitchens Stadium next week as we take on runaway league leaders Wakefield Trinity.

COACHES COMMENTS

Head Coach Allan Coleman said: “It was very frustrating. I think the players showed frustration in the game for the first this season.

“In good ball areas, we only completed at 28% and you just have no chance of winning games on that completion rate. We just looked very panicked all game.

“We were the more dominant side but we’ve come out on the wrong side of the scoreline.

“I’m just disappointed with the way we let frustration get the better of us. We’re normally patient and calm with the way we attack but it just didn’t quite work for us today.”