Paul Cullen proud of Widnes display in defeat by Barrow

Cullen has conceded Widnes will not win the league this season

Widnes coach Paul Cullen praised his side for a spirited comeback during the 24-20 home defeat by Barrow on Sunday.

The Vikings fought back from 20-4 down at half-time, with all Barrow's points coming from the boot.

"We took the game by the scruff off the neck, play by play and set by set, and I'm delighted and proud of our effort," Cullen told BBC Radio Merseyside.

"I think our defence was superb and Barrow have scored 24 points but haven't broken our line once."

He added: "All their points have come from penalties or the boot of Jamie Rooney.

"He was the only difference today and Barrow won by a couple of penalties.

"We're not going to win the league, but our goal is to win the Northern Rail Cup. We just need to keep battling away and make sure we get into the top six - hopefully the top four.

"Then hopefully, at some time at the end of the season, we might just get a little bit of luck when it comes to injuries."