North Wales Crusaders will welcome Betfred Championship outfit Widnes Vikings to Stadiwm CSM this Sunday in the third round of the Betfred Challenge Cup.
Carl Forster’s Crusaders side enter the game on the back of two victories in two games to start their 2025 season, scoring an impressive 112 points whilst conceding none.
Sunday will present a different challenge for the Colwyn Bay based club as they face a Widnes side who finished in the Championship play-off positions last season.
Formbook:
North Wales enter Sunday’s clash in fine form with two wins from as many games in 2025. Car Forster’s side made good on long trips to Cornwall and Newcastle securing 52-0 and 60-0 victories respectively.
Widnes also enter the tie with a two from two record in the new season. The Vikings followed up on an impressive 2024 season which saw them finish in a play-off position in the Championship by securing a pre-season victory over a young Warrington side followed by a 34-16 victory over League One opponents Rochdale Hornets in the Challenge Cup second round.
Squad News:
Carl Forster will be given a selection headache come Sunday with standout performances across the squad in the first two games. His new look side have shown strength in depth so far this season and that will give the Crusaders head coach difficult choices to make when he names his starting team this weekend.
The Vikings will be all too aware of the threat which North Wales can pose to them, with former Widnes players Lloyd Roby, Ollie Brookes and Sam Wilde crossing the border in the off-season.
What The Coach Says:
Speaking to the media ahead of the game, North Wales Crusaders coach Carl Forster has urged his side to remain grounded following their perfect start to the season, and expect a tougher test against Widnes.
“It will give us a good idea of where we’re at, we’ll go into the game with nothing to lose and the pressure all on Widnes to come to North Wales and progress being the higher ranked side.
“We’ll be concentrated on us, play our game and not the occasion, and just get our basics right.”
You can read the full thoughts of Carl Forster HERE.
Supporter Information:
Parking at Stadiwm CSM is free of charge and located by the main turnstile and ticket office, with gates opening at 1pm.
Food and drink outlets shall be open from 1pm serving a range of hot and cold food in addition to the bar which is located in the fanzone.
Tickets are priced at £14 adults and free for under 16’s, with online purchase advised to avoid queues on the day.
Purchase tickets: CLICK HERE.
Following the game, a man of the match presentation shall take place in the fanzone where supporters can also enjoy music and the bar facilities.
Hospitality:
Former Wales and North Wales Crusaders head coach Clive Griffiths is the guest in the Legend’s Lounge this week, with supporters able to enjoy pie, mash and gravy whilst meeting Clive and enjoying other benefits for just £34.99 with your match ticket included.
Hospitality guests are asked to arrive by 1:15pm and show their tickets at the ticket booth where they’ll be allocated a wristband.
