WIDNES RUFC played their first competitive fixture on Saturday when the first and second team squads tested each other in a game at Heath Road.

The game was played in four 20-minute quarters and gave all the players, as well as three new trialists, the opportunity to put themselves at the head of the queue when the first team is selected for the first competitive fixture in three week's time.

Before then, however, Widnes has three more friendly games to play.

They face Sefton next week, before playing Collegiate and Birchfield.

The club's first competitive game is the Lancashire Trophy game against Oldham, which also takes place at Heath Road, on September 2.

Meanwhile, the coaching staff remain confident that they will be able to announce at least one more new signing after training this week.

One announcement that can be confirmed is that prop Simon Alderson will be the new vice-captain for the coming season.

Simon was in outstanding form last season and his appointment is a fitting reward for his hard work, particularly during the close season.

The junior section has embarked on a major recruitment campaign to boost their playing numbers for the coming season.

The club has a terrific junior set-up and, as a testament to the work they have put in so far, there are seven players from the junior section who now play in the first team.

So, if there are any potential young players out there aged six or over, why not go along to the club, see the facilities and maybe enjoy a taster session with one of their RFU qualified coaches?

Anybody interested can get further details from Dave Breeden on 07921 470649 or Jon Cooke on 07974 678389.

Details will also be included on the Wids website at widnesrufc.co.uk

On the social side, president George Street has organised an old-fashioned sing-a-long at the club on Friday evening.

Admission is free and the evening starts at 8pm.