Wolves hang on!
By Gary Skentelbery
WARRINGTON hung on for a last gasp victory over arch-rivals Widnes in a fixture staged to help raise funds for former Great Britain and Warrington star Mike Gregory.
More than 6,000 fans turned up to show their support at Halliwell Jones Stadium which could earn an estimated £50,000 for the former Wolves skipper, who is suffering from a neurological complaint.
The Vikings who were relegated last season, were more than a match for the hosts and came close to pulling of a second straight win over the Super League side in pre-season friendlies.
The National League outfit defeated Warrington in a Boxing Day friendly and would have done so again had they managed to convert a last gasp try.
Instead it was the Wolves who came out on top in a tight match after Lee Marsh was unable to add the extras following substitute Mick Nanyn’s try.
The Vikings managed to forge a 12-10 lead at half-time thanks to scores from Mark Smith and Damian Reid, which Marsh converted.
Henry Fa’afili and Chris Bridge crossed for Warrington in the opening 40 minutes as coach Paul Cullen sent out a near full-strength team.
Paul Connor’s try soon after the re-start pushed Widnes further clear but they were unable to hang on to the lead as they allowed Warrington back into the game.
Mark Gleeson’s try was converted by Bridge to level the scores, who then put the Wolves in front with a drop goal.
Brent Grose appeared to have sealed victory for the home team when he crashed over, only for Widnes to battle back in contention in the final few minutes with Nanyn’s effort two minutes from time.
