Widnes Vikings' hopes of an immediate return to Super League following relegation were scuppered when they received a 12-point deduction for going into administration earlier this season.

But the club were saved and their campaign remains very much alive following their 1895 Cup quarter-final win over Dewsbury Rams which has left them 80 minutes from Wembley, having been drawn against Leigh in the last four.

Here's a closer look at Bulls' visitors to Odsal on Sunday.

THE BACKS

Auckland-born Anthony Gelling is a high-profile experienced option in the centres, while youngster Keanan Brand - who has just secured a deal with Super League outfit Warrington Wolves - is an exciting up and coming outside back. Jack Owens and Ryan Ince offer try-scoring options out wide, while Danny Craven and Tom Gilmore pull the strings as the half-back combination.

THE ENGINE ROOM

The Chapelhow brothers feature as front row options for Kieron Purtill and his Widnes Vikings. Ted featured for the Bradford Bulls under Geoff Toovey in the 2017 campaign, scoring two tries in six appearances.

The experienced Harrison Hansen runs out in the black and white following spells with Leigh Centurions, Salford Red Devils and Wigan Warriors, where he won the double in 2013. New Zealand born Hep Cahill is a solid back-row option in a pack which has been bolstered by the recent signing of Josh Ganson from the Warriors, with Jordan Johnstone another option at ‘9’.

THE STADIUM

Widnes Vikings play their home fixtures at the Halton Stadium - a 13,350 capacity stadium which is formerly known as Select Security Stadium and Stobart Stadium.

THE HEAD COACH

Kieron Purtill took charge of Sunday’s opponents prior to the start of the 2019 season as the club prepared for a season in the sport’s second tier. Purtill arrived at the Halton Stadium having spent ten games at the helm of Leigh Centurions in 2018, winning eight. The 42-year-old is the former head coach of Canada’s national team and the England Knights Development Squad.

THE LAST SIX RESULTS

Widnes Vikings 52 – 6 Dewsbury Rams

Widnes Vikings 28 – 22 Batley Bulldogs

Featherstone Rovers 22 – 4 Widnes Vikings

Widnes Vikings 38 – 14 Barrow Raiders

Widnes Vikings 36 – 6 Sheffield Eagles

Widnes Vikings 12 – 16 York City Knights