The Vikings are back in the big-time in 2012, although they have secured only two wins from their opening 11 league matches in the top flight.

They conceded 84 points in their two games over Easter, leaving the team stuck at the bottom of the table early on in the campaign.

Betts enjoyed great success during his playing days in the cup with Wigan and he hopes the competition will energise his team.

"After such a tough Easter period, it's just a short turnaround and you've got some very tired bodies," explained Betts.

"Maybe you'd like a little bit more time and preparation to build up and get the focus right.

"But, if anything, the Challenge Cup gives you another focus so you can energise people with the change in focus."

Magic

Betts helped the Warriors win an incredible seven consecutive finals during the club's unparalleled success in the eighties and nineties.

"There's still that magic and feel about it," he continued. "Anything can happen.

"You need a bit of luck in the draw and you need to play particularly well in knockout rugby but there's always that opportunity.

"You're just three or four games away from something very, very special."

Saints boss Mike Rush knows the importance of the competition, insisting everyone at the club is taking Widnes seriously.

"The Challenge Cup is massive for us," commented Rush. "Every overseas player comes here with the dream of doing it and it's the same for the local boys too.

"It will be a very tough game. We are preparing to take on the team that beat Wigan recently."