WIDNES VIKINGS are set for an early reunion with three of last year’s squad when North Wales Crusaders visit the DCBL Stadium for Friday’s first pre-season run-out for both clubs.
Backs Ollie Brookes and Lloyd Roby and secondrow Sam Wilde have joined the Colwyn Bay club.
While Brookes, 23, was limited to four outings for Widnes in 2024, Roby, 26, played 13 times and Wilde, 29, in 22 games, scoring eight tries.
His switch ended a three-season second spell at Widnes, who made the play-offs last season.
A new job with the fire service contributed to Wilde’s departure, and coach Allan Coleman said: “I’m gutted we couldn’t keep hold of him.
“But his shift patterns would have made it difficult for him to make the commitment for training and matches which we need.
“With North Wales playing fewer games, that made it easier for him.”
Widnes also have a warm-up match at dual-registration partners Warrington on Friday, January 17.
