Vikings say ‘We’re sorry’ for switching Wigan game
THE WIDNES Vikings chief executive apologised to fans after a game had to be rescheduled at short notice.
The Vikings’ clash with Wigan Warriors had been due to take place at the DW Stadium on Friday evening .
However the Warriors decided to postpone the game little more than 24 hours before due to standing water on the pitch and further bad weather forecast.
Warriors chairman Ian Lenagan added that Wigan Athletic FC – who play their home games at the same stadium – are facing a ‘critical stage’ in their season and were due to play Nottingham Forest the following day.
The game was quickly rear- ● ranged to take place at the Select Security Stadium after discussions between the two clubs and the Rugby Football League (RFL).
The Vikings have also received compensation from Wigan.
Widnes reduced tickets prices to £10 for adults and allowed children aged under 16 in for free.
Vikings chief executive James Rule said: “I would like to apologise on behalf of the Vikings to our supporters and those of Wigan Warriors, as well as my staff and the players of both clubs.
“This has been a difficult period for everybody, but it was not something that we could have foreseen.
“We have tried to do what is best for our club, the supporters and the wider game by ensuring that this fixture could be facilitated.
“To face the challenge of the World Club Champions, we need the inspirational backing of our supporters.
“We appreciate the challenges that this short notice presents, but hope our supporters recognise the hard work that has gone into ensuring this game can go ahead.”
The RFL has confirmed it will investigate the circumstances surrounding the postponement of the game by Wigan Warriors and ‘any potential breach’ of RFL Operational Rules.
The Vikings’ original home fixture with Wigan in July will now become the away game at the DW Stadium.
Vikings fans took to social media to give their views surrounding the re-arranged fixture.
John Sheridan tweeted: “Being able to put on a game at such short notice is credit to all concerned. @WidnesRL have behaved impeccably #proud”
Kevin Mort tweeted: “Given that with our injury situation a postponement was quite attractive, I am glad the club came up with a viable alternative.
“But how this situation happened at all is an indictment of the way the sport is run. If pitch not playable, that’s for @ TheRFL to decide.”
Mark Grady tweeted: “@ WidnesRL I was disappointed I wasn’t going to be able to get to the away game tonight with a clash but now 2 season tickets wasted!”
David Shallcross tweeted: “Top work James Rule and @ WidnesRL for fighting for their fans and ensuring tonight’s game is on.”
Gaz Hatton tweeted: “@WidnesRL are you going to reimburse me for my season tickets, I’ve missed an home game now #stronghold”
Wigan fans also waded into the debate. James Kearney tweeted: “Fair play to Widnes for getting the game on tonight. Don’t know what Wigan are playing at!”
Fellow Warriors supporter Gary Ormiston tweeted: “Not the best of 24 hours in the history of Wigan RL but get to Widnes to back the boys and give your support to the team #AncientAndLoyal”