NRC Preview: Swinton v Widnes

Phil Joseph misses out for the Lions after being given a two-match suspension in midweek.

Swinton coach Paul Smith, whose side beat Workington 19-18 on Wednesday night, said: “Widnes are very similar to Batley, who we faced last week.

“I said before the Batley game that they would provide us with a real test and Widnes will be no different.

“We’ve also got quite a few ex-Widnes players in our squad which I’m sure will give the game an extra level of interest.”

Vikings’ assistant coach Stuart Wilkinson is hopeful of up to four players returning to his squad after missing last week’s game against Barrow due to a virus.

Wilkinson said: “We’re hoping they’ll be OK for the weekend and we’re looking forward to being bolstered by a few returning faces.”

He added: “Playing wise there are still loads of things that we need to do better.

“We still feel we’re under-performing but we’re endeavouring to improve that. We’re just constantly trying to improve each week.”