O’Connor vows to get Vikings back where they belong

Jul 31 2008 by Paul Glynn, Runcorn and Widnes Weekly News

WIDNES chairman Steve O’Connor has admitted to sleepless nights since the Vikings were excluded from the new Super League.

But he underlined his determination to “stay and make something happen over the next three years” and his intention to continue to run the club as a full-time operation.

Addressing Vikings supporters at half-time during the side’s 40-0 demolition of Dewsbury Rams, O’Connor was joined on the pitch by all of the club’s management team.

O’Connor, welcomed by chants of “Stevo” said: “I didn’t sleep until Friday last week and had a plan for retribution and bargaining up until Thursday.

“But then I woke up on Friday and realised any time, money and effort that we spend, should be on rebuilding our club from the bottom up.

“We must let go of whatever has happened in the past and whatever it is the RFL don’t like about us, if we ever want to see Super League rugby.”

He added: “People might think we don’t care. But after all of the emotions you fans have been feeling – sadness, anger, bitterness – we eventually need to reach acceptance.

“As until we get on with these people, they won’t invite us into their game.”

O’Connor gave details of a positive meeting he and other Vikings representatives had attended with the RFL.

“The RFL weren’t ready for the media and rugby league support that we have received, which has been fantastic.

“By the time we left the meeting on Friday afternoon, they had a different perception of Widnes.

“We explained we don’t agree with the decision but complimented them on the process, as I believe it will make a more sustainable game.”

He added: “There is a sense of respect in this sport and we have to demonstrate this to the league’s governing body.

“On reflection, by the time we make it to Super League, we’ll know how to be successful and I’d be really pleased if you’d all come along with me.”

The Vikings’ backroom staff left the pitch to the anthemic Chumbawumba track Tub Thumping, which declares: “I get knocked down but I get up again, you’re never gonna keep me down” – as well as a standing ovation from the fans.

Richard Lewis, RFL executive chairman, confirmed his belief that under the current management set-up, Vikings will be in a far stronger position to obtain a licence in two years time.

Mr Lewis said: “I now believe Widnes have a greater understanding of the technical detail of the RFL’s decision having talked through areas of uncertainty.Š

“I remain extremely impressed with the professionalism and approach of the management team currently in place in Widnes.

“For the supporters it is understandably disappointing for them that the club is still paying the price of its previous owners.”