You are in > manchester.com  > News > Vikings 'extremely disappointed' at RFL decision

Rugby League

Vikings 'extremely disappointed' at RFL decision

22/07/2008

Councillor Tony McDermott has criticised the Rugby Football League's "extremely disappointing decision" not to award a Super League licence to Widnes Vikings.

Cllr McDermott was at the centre of the bid by the Halton-based club to earn a place in the top flight of the sport as part of the expanded 14-team division between 2009 and 2011.

However, the RFL decided to opt for Celtic Crusaders and Salford City Reds ahead of Widnes and other strong bids from fellow traditional powers such as Halifax and Leigh Centurions.

The news means Widnes - one of the original clubs who formed the Northern Rugby Football Union in 1873 as a breakaway from the rugby union code - will be forced to ply their trade outside the Super League for at least another three seasons.

"This is an extremely disappointing decision for the people of Halton, Widnes and all true rugby league fans," Cllr McDermott said.

"Widnes Vikings are at the heart of much of the council's community activities and provide excellent opportunities for young and old in Halton.

"I find it hard to understand how the Rugby Football League has arrived at this decision, it is hugely disappointing.

"We now need to take a little time to digest this decision and will be in close dialogue with the Vikings over the next few days as we look to the future."

Club chairman Steve O'Connor said the club itself had found the decision to be "deeply disappointing", but vowed to rebound from the setback.

He said: "I know the council are as disappointed as me at this turn of events but we are determined to carry on with our work and clinch the place in Super League which we all believe Widnes Vikings so richly deserves.

"We now need to sit down and assess the full implications of this ruling over the next few days. However, it is important that our fans are reassured that I am fully committed to Widnes Vikings.

"When I took over the club last November I told supporters I was in for the long haul - and I meant that."