31/08/2026
.🏆 1895 CUP FINAL PREVIEW
London Broncos 🆚 Widnes Vikings
Bank Holiday Monday sees these two meet for the third time this season, with London winning both previous encounters — 44-12 in January and 42-36 at the DCBL Stadium in August.
That second game showed Widnes can cause problems, with the Vikings scoring three tries in the final 10 minutes and coming close to an incredible comeback. But can they go one step further in the final?
đźź THE VIKINGS
Widnes have bounced back with wins over Halifax and Workington, but the Halifax victory came at a huge cost.
The Vikings suffered four first-half injuries, including a season-ending knee injury to influential ho**er Matty Fozard. Lewis Hall also suffered another lower-leg injury, while Nathan Connell and Max Banditt left with concussion.
With Joe Edge, Liam Bent, Matty Fleming, Joe Lyons and Morgan McWhirter also injured, Alan Coleman has faced a major selection headache.
There is some good news, with Jumeh Sambou and Morgan McWhirter returning, captain Jack Owens back from suspension and Connell and Banditt potentially available.
Widnes have also had to deal with a controversial fixture schedule, facing **three games in seven days**, including the final. Special dispensation has allowed them to use loan players against Sheffield, while London have supported their request to allow Danny Richardson to play in Monday’s final.
đź”´ THE BRONCOS
London have enjoyed an outstanding season, already securing the **League Leaders’ Shield** and expected to finish with 23 wins from 24 games.
Coach Jason Demetriou has an impressive CV, including almost 200 Super League appearances, NRL coaching experience with South Sydney and previous Championship experience with Keighley. He also played more than 80 times for Widnes.
🏆 THE VERDICT
London Broncos to win and claim their second piece of silverware.
Widnes absolutely can win. They know how to unlock the London defence and an Allan Coleman side won't give up.
But London's lightning-fast play-the-balls, powerful running, dominance in the ruck and ability to score from anywhere could prove too much.
Can the Vikings cause the upset?
