Patrick Ah Van and Gil Dudson sign new Widnes contracts

Widnes duo Patrick Ah Van and Gil Dudson have signed two-year extensions to their contracts with the Vikings.

The 28-year-old winger Ah Van, who spent four years in the NRL with New Zealand Warriors, has scored 386 points for the Vikings since joining from Bradford four years ago.

Widnes coach Denis Betts said: "Pat is a strong and well thought of member of the squad. His tryscoring record speaks for itself.

"He contributes so much on the field but is also invaluable for his outstanding contributions supporting our off-field community work. He is a real club man."

Ah Van said: "When the club approached me to re-sign, I was only ever really going to sign here.

"During my four years here, I have come to think of Widnes as home.

"The team is constantly improving, the club is getting stronger and the work we do in the community gets better year on year and I am proud to be part of that.

"I want to thank the fans for their support over the last couple of years and I look forward to the future in black and white."

Ah Van is the seventh player to re-sign for Widnes in the last three weeks, following on from Charly Runciman, Joe Mellor, Eamon O'Carroll, Chris Dean, Stefan Marsh and Rhys Hanbury.

Former Wigan prop Dudson, who has made 28 appearances for the Vikings, will also stay an additional two years at the Select Security Stadium.

Betts said: "Signing Gil to the club for two years is a strong statement of intent. He has brought strength and size to the squad and has grown with the team showing potential and huge ambition.

"He is held in high regard by his team mates and peers which shows what a key role he plays."