COULD experience be the key for Widnes Vikings in their bid to secure Super League survival?

After all, despite their poor form leading into the next phase, they do know how to put together a successful Middle 8s campaign.

The inaugural Qualifiers in 2015 saw them win five of their seven matches to comfortably retain their top-flight status.

This year, however, their task will be much more uphill.

Defeat to The Wire in their final regular round fixture, coupled with Leigh’s surprise 25-0 win over high-flying Salford, meant they finished bottom of the pile.

Four of their next seven games will be away from the Halton Stadium, including hellishly tough trips to Hull KR and Catalans Dragons.

That said, Vikings head coach Denis Betts looks to have the theoretical tools to secure a precious place in the top three and avoid the lottery of the Million Pound Game.

A half-back partnership of Rangi Chase and Joe Mellor would not be baulked at by many Super League outfits, neither would a back row of Chris Houston, Matt Whitley and Hep Cahill.

Rhys Hanbury is a key organiser from full-back while Corey Thompson, out-scored only by the record-breaking Denny Solomona last year, will be keen to end his time at the club on a high.

Widnes have the raw materials to be a threatening proposition, especially on their unique artificial surface, meaning nothing can be taken for granted.

Vikings squad: Chris Bridge, Jack Buchanan, Greg Burke, Hep Cahill, James Chapelhow, Rangi Chase, Danny Craven, Gil Dudson, Rhys Hanbury, Chris Houston, Jordan Johnstone, Manase Manuokafoa, Stefan Marsh, Joe Mellor, Tom Olbison, Charly Runciman, Corey Thompson, Lloyd White, Matt Whitley.