Widnes winger Patrick Ah Van scored a try in his side’s opening match of the season with a broken arm, it has been revealed.
The 29-year-old New Zealander complained of soreness in his arm but played on and touched down 10 minutes from the end of the Vikings’ 40-12 win over Catalans Dragons in the Betfred Super League opener at the Halton Stadium on Sunday.
Ah Van discovered the extent of the injury when he went for scans which revealed a clean break and is now facing up to three months on the sidelines.
Vikings coach Denis Betts said: “It’s the nature of the beast in sport but you have got to feel sorry for Pat.
“He’s worked hard to get himself in fantastic condition for the season ahead and I believe he is in the best shape of his life.
“It is incredibly unfortunate that he has broken his arm in the first game of the season. It’s something you can’t account for and it was just a clash between two players in a tackle.
“But when one door shuts, another one opens and this has presented opportunities for lads who are keen to get into the side for Sunday and to stay there.
“Ryan Ince is on his way back from injury and is only a couple of weeks away, Olly Ashall knows his responsibilities in that role and Ed Chamberlain has come out of the World Cup, so we’ve got lads who are keen and ready.
“As we have said previously, the door is not closed on further recruitment. With the continuing support of people signing up for Stronghold Memberships and investing in their team, we can explore opportunities to strengthen the squad.
“We know that Pat is determined to come back as soon as possible from this injury, and we are looking forward to his return.”
Widnes’ next match is at Castleford on Sunday.
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