More to depart at Vikings

WIDNES Vikings have confirmed a number of departures after the 2021 season came to a close last month.

Matt Cook and Paul Clough had already announced their retirements from the game after stellar careers. The pair played their final games in the 26-16 victory at Oldham on the final day of the 2021 season.

Deon Cross will also be leaving the club after agreeing to join a full-time club and pursue his ambition to play in Super League. Deon scored 24 tries in 31 appearances during his two seasons with the Vikings, and recently scooped Fans’ Player of the Year award at our End of Season dinner as well as winning Try of the Season for his effort at home to London Broncos.

Jayden Hatton is also leaving Widnes hoping to pursue his ambition of a full-time career in Rugby League. Jayden has scored 16 tries in his 32 appearances during three years with the Vikings first team following progression through the academy programme.

Daniel Hill departs after agreeing to join St Helens. ‘Hilly’ came through the academy at Widnes and broke into the first team this season, making six appearances and scoring a try against Salford Red Devils in the Challenge Cup.

Owen Buckley will leave when his contract expires at the end of this year. ‘Buckers’ scored 11 tries in his 13 senior appearances after coming through the Vikings’ youth system, including seven in seven games during 2019 and a memorable hat-trick against Oldham in the Challenge Cup.

Josh Wilde will also leave the club at the end of his contract. ‘Wildey’ broke into the first team this season after also coming through the academy but has decided to move on in search of playing time. Lee Jewitt has suffered from long-term injuries and also leaves at the expiry of his contract.