At first glance the West Wales Raiders versus the Widnes Vikings was a strange selection as the first match by the BBC. But dig a little below the surface and the debuts for Rugby Union superstar thirty-three times Welsh capped Gavin Henson, and former Super League Man of Steel and journeyman Rangi Chase, both in the colours of the ambitious Raiders. Their including made this a mouth-watering prospect as they took on one of the all-time cup kings.

The favourites were clearly the visitors, playing their rugby in the higher league and with many years of top-level cup pedigree, but with home advantage and a couple of unknowns there was always the chance that the home side may spring a surprise.

Stebonheath Park in Llanelli was the venue, a three-and-a-half-hour drive for the Vikings

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At first glance the West Wales Raiders versus the Widnes Vikings was a strange selection as the first match by the BBC. But dig a little below the surface and the debuts for Rugby Union superstar thirty-three times Welsh capped Gavin Henson, and former Super League Man of Steel and journeyman Rangi Chase, both in the colours of the ambitious Raiders. Their including made this a mouth-watering prospect as they took on one of the all-time cup kings.

The favourites were clearly the visitors, playing their rugby in the higher league and with many years of top-level cup pedigree, but with home advantage and a couple of unknowns there was always the chance that the home side may spring a surprise.

Stebonheath Park in Llanelli was the venue, a three-and-a-half-hour drive for the Vikings

READ MORE ON THIS STORY...