'˜We're a better team with Shaun Lunt in it' admits Hull KR coach, James Webster

On the day the East Yorkshire club paid tribute to their legendary former captain and coach Roger Millward, who died recently aged 68, Lunt was instrumental as Rovers secured only a fourth victory of the year.

“I don’t think there is a game this year where Lunty hasn’t been good,” said Webster of the former England international who scored one try and created another two.

“That position is so vital – when to or not to pass, left or right, scanning numbers – but he’s also a threat with the ball too and can break tackles by himself. He came up with some really big plays. We’re a better team when Shaun plays.

“The game was a bit scrappy because of the intent that both sides had. Widnes were tough, physical and it was a bruising encounter. It wasn’t a classic with the ball because there were two desperate teams.”

Rovers’ defence was well-marshalled and Webster admitted: “The pleasing thing for me was Widnes had a long time on our try-line and we were able to withhold it. We spoke all week about how our own tryline defence had to mean something.

“Through those periods I was still confident that we could hold out - that hasn’t been the case over the last month. Hopefully, that will still improve next week and as the season goes on.”

Now Rovers, who sit in ninth, will start preparations for the derby with Hull FC at Magic Weekend.

“It goes without saying that defensive effort will be needed again,” added Webster. “Hull are flying high, and have some massive punch. “They’re the biggest team in the competition.”