Although disappointed to lose away at Carlisle, they did secure a losing bonus point. And, although the defeat wasn’t terminal – only ten points separate the top five teams – victory this weekend will rack up the pressure on those above them. Additionally, two of those teams, Liverpool St Helens and Vale of Lune, have still to visit Heath Road within the next few weeks.

Saturday’s game, though, will be an intriguing one. Widnes pulled off a tremendous 18 – 12 win in the first game at Stelfox Avenue with Paul O'Connor scoring two tries. And, although AK have lost four of their last five matches, they have not been far away and this will be a tough challenge for the home team.

Paul Borg (pictured) will be missing from the Widnes line up after picking up a serious looking shoulder injury last week, and he has been replaced by Steve Reynolds.

The game kicks off at 2.15pm.