Widnes Vikings will entertain Leeds Rhinos in the Third Round of the Betfred Challenge Cup on Saturday, with the former ‘Cup Kings’ hoping to put in a strong performance at the DCBL Stadium.
Jordan Johnstone, who has made over 120 appearances for the Vikings, is excited to face Super League opposition on home territory:
“I’m buzzing for Saturday and all the boys are too. Leeds are one of the premier teams in Super League, so it’ll be nice to go up against them.
“We’re expecting a tough physical challenge as you’d get against any Super League side, but we will be ready for it and hopefully put up a good account of ourselves.”
Widnes progressed to Round 3 of the competition following a dominant 0-76 win over their neighbours Thatto Heath Crusaders.
They also managed to pick up their first Betfred Championship victory last weekend beating North Wales Crusaders 28-14 - meaning that Allan Coleman’s side are full of confidence heading into their huge cup tie.
“It was nice to get the first win of the season, especially at home in front of the fans. 4000+ spectators for our first game of the season is an outstanding effort from everyone involved in the club, and definitely something the club can build on going forward.”
The Vikings' attendance figures have continued to grow in 2026, and another healthy crowd is expected on Saturday with the Widnes fans turning up in their numbers and plenty of Rhinos supporters travelling to the town.
“The Challenge Cup is great for the Championship and lower league clubs as it’s an opportunity to play against some top sides and turn over some money for the clubs for the season ahead.”
Widnes and Leeds’ last meeting ironically came in the Challenge Cup competition – back in 2018.
The Vikings came close to pulling off a huge cup upset, as they pushed the Rhinos all the way on home soil, before eventually losing out 20-23.
Johnstone is one of three players still remaining at the club, (Jack Owens and Tom Gilmore being the other two), who faced Leeds in this game eight years ago, and he recalls his memories of this:
“I can remember it briefly,” he said. “It was a pretty close game. We could have gone on and won it, I’m pretty sure Aaron Heremaia dropped the ball over the line that would have won the game for us, but yeah, hopefully we can give them a good game again this weekend.”
Both teams are rich in history where the Challenge Cup is concerned and have met a total of 18 times in this competition, including the 1977 final.
And Johnstone is aiming to get back to his best after a injury riddled season in 2025.
“2026 has been good so far. It’s nice to be fit and healthy this time of year. With being injured for the majority of last season, it’s just nice to be out there and playing.”
Everyone will be hoping for a close contest on Saturday, but can Widnes cause any drama? You can watch the action unfold live on The Sportsman (K.O. 3pm).
It's Betfred Challenge Cup Finals Day at Wembley Stadium on Saturday 30 May 2026. Book your tickets here today and enjoy our early bird prices!
