Widnes’ McCormack hails seven new stars

Nov 22 2007 by Our Correspondent, Liverpool Daily Post

WIDNES VIKINGS have confirmed the signings of seven more players including Scottish international Iain Morrison who joins from Super League side Hull Kingston Rovers.

Morrison, 24, played an integral part in their recent World Cup qualification under the guidance of Vikings’ and Scotland coach Steve McCormack.

McCormack has also promoted five of the Vikings senior academy stars including loose forward Dayne Donoghue, full-back Scott Yates, prop Michael Ostick, and 17-year-old full-back Shane Grady – all products of Vikings’ World-Class Scholarship programme.

Loose forward Rob Draper, completes the line-up of exciting young talent. Another international joining is Batley’s Irish prop Martin McLoughlin.

The latest signings follow the announcement that five key players from the 2007 squad have re-joined – skipper Mark Smith, Bob Beswick, Paul Noone, Dean Gaskell and Gavin Dodd.

McCormack said: “Our 2008 squad is taking shape and I’m delighted with the mix of youth and experience. I hope to be in a position to reveal further additions.”