Super League: Denis Betts was delighted after Widnes Vikings reached the playoffs

Denis Betts was delighted after Widnes came from behind to beat Bradford 32-12 and ensure their place in the Super League playoffs for the first time.

The Vikings trailed 12-8 at half-time but hit back with five tries and 24 unanswered points in the second half to put themselves out of reach of pre-match top-eight rivals Hull KR and Wakefield, who both lost.

Widnes scored seven tries in total but managed only two conversions with the usually reliable Danny Tickle failing with all five of his attempts at goal.

It's a fantastic achievement for the team to be certain of being in the top eight and in charge of our own destiny.

Betts said: "It's a fantastic achievement for the team to be certain of being in the top eight and in charge of our own destiny.

"We've scored enough points to not have to rely on anyone else and there's a possibility of us finishing seventh.

"It was a tight game today because I need to find a goal-kicker and I've just told Danny Tickle that!

"Give credit to Bradford they had a lot of energy and enthusiasm and we knew what their drive would be as this is their last home game before they drop out of Super League.

"The anxiety has been stripped away from this place and we knew they'd be tough to beat.

"Bradford are a dangerous beast and have plenty of dangerous players in their side and our defence was outstanding, especially in the second half when we didn't let them get over our line.

"We knew what was at stake for us and knew what we had to achieve.

"We didn't want to have to go to Salford next Friday needing a result.

"They are a dangerous side too and we have beaten them three times this year, including knocking them out of the cup, so they have plenty to prove."

Rued errors

Dejected Bulls coach James Lowes rued errors by his side as they were unable to sign off at home with a victory. The next time they will play at home will be in the Championship next season.

He said: "We made too many errors - we made some great opportunities but bombed the chances.

"Right from the off, a poor mistake from Luke Gale, unlike him, and they scored off of that set.

"Our error rate was too high and the second half was a result of us dropping too much ball in the first half.

"We had enough opportunities to score and take the game away from Widnes but our execution was poor."

The Bulls were already relegated prior to Sunday’s clash at Odsal and Betts had final words of encouragement for Bradford, saying: "I'd like to wish the Bulls well next year and hope they can get back into Super League as Super League needs this place."