High-fliers (From Warrington Guardian)

High-fliers

New signing: Fabien Devecchi

NEW half-back Fabien Devecchi was welcomed to the Auto Quest this week as coach Colin Whitfield revealed that the signing was something of a family affair.

For negotiations for the English-speaking French international featured a role for Colin's wife Annick.

"My wife is French herself, so she's been doing a bit of liaison work for us," he said.

On Devecchi, the Viking coach said: "He has got attributes with pace and strength and he handles the ball well. He's a good addition to the squad."

The new man may get an outing in this weekend's friendly against Oldham as the team prepare for their Challenge Cup tie against Conference high-fliers West Hull on January 31.

"I watched them last week and they play as a good side," said Colin.

"They are well organised and disciplined. They also have four months' football behind them while we'll have only a couple of weeks.

"But it's a job to be done and we will treat them with respect."

Colin is looking forward to the new season, which will see Widnes trying to claim their rightful place in top-flight rugby.

"The players have been doing the hard work and now, hopefully, we will see the fruits of that," he said.

Admission for the Oldham game, which kicks-off at 3pm, is £5 adults and £2 senior citizens and children.

All the new signings are expected to play some part in the game.

Meanwhile, season tickets will be on sale before and after Sunday's game. As well as granting admission to all home first team league games, the tickets also include the club's Alliance Super League matches and the Academy league fixtures.

Supporters who had car parking passes last year and are looking to renew them should contact Harold Lynskey immediately on 0151-420 0054.

The Vikings Sponsors Event will take place on Friday, February 5. Hundreds of inevitabilities have already been dispatched to local businesses and individuals and anyone requiring more information about Vikings Sponsor packages should contact Frank Myler on 0151-495 2250. The event will be hosted by Sky TV's Eddie Hemmings and there will be a free buffet and entertainment provided by Colin 'Fingers' Henry.

The club also announced this week that Ken Owen has been appointed as new chief scout in succession to John Jackson. Pat Cluskey has also been appointed as the club's new administration manager.

The Alliance team's game has been cancelled this weekend because Swinton have failed to get a team together.

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