London Broncos demonstrated just why they’re the overwhelming favourites to win the Championship this season by blowing Widnes Vikings away in round one.
The Broncos saw off Widnes 44-12 at the Cherry Red Records Stadium in the capital to mark the start of a new era in the best way possible.
Jason Demetriou’s side took an early 12-0 lead against Widnes with Dean Hawkins and Alex Max scoring on their debuts for the club. The Vikings rallied as Jordan Johnstone and Sam Wilde got over but Robert Mathias touched down just a couple of minutes before the break to give London a half-time lead.
Reagan Campbell-Gillard powered over at the start of the second half though and that kick started a period of dominance in which London took the game away from their visitors. Lewis Bienek, Elliot Wallis, and James Meadows all touched down before Max got his second of the day to put the finishing touches on a fine afternoon for the new look Broncos.
Elsewhere in the Championship, Doncaster claimed a 19-12 win over Halifax Panthers, who many believe will be challenging at the top end of the division this year. Reece Lyne, James Glover and Connor Jones got the tries for the Dons with Cory Aston slotting three goals and a drop goal at the Eco-Power Stadium.
Newcastle Thunder picked up their first league win since September 2023 as they stunned Midlands Hurricanes at Avery Fields. Overseas recruit Cody Hunter scored twice on the day, while Noah Whittingham and York Knights loanees Will Dagger and Will Roberts also touched down for the Thunder, who have recruited ambitiously.
Barrow Raiders thumped Cumbria rivals Workington Town 40-0, while Keighley Cougars edged out Goole Vikings 32-18 to start their season in the right way after a miserable 2025 campaign.
Rochdale Hornets edged out Swinton Lions 12-8, while Dewsbury Rams won a West Yorkshire derby against Hunslet 20-12.
Sheffield Eagles were the other winners of the opening Sunday of the season as they picked up an 11-4 win over Whitehaven in the North West.
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