Keen to tap into the passion of the local and long-suffering Newcastle United fans ahead of Super League's ninth Magic Weekend in the city, the Vikings decided to release a bespoke kit for their game with Salford - a black-and-white striped number more commonly seen on the likes of Alan Shearer and not hulking prop forwards.
Widnes won local hearts furthermore by having the shirt sponsored by the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation - the charity set up in the name of the popular former England and Newcastle manager who died in 2009.
Widnes said all proceeds from sales of the shirt would be donated to the foundation and ahead of kick-off they confirmed that #20,000 had been raised, with the foundation Tweeting: "Wonderful support. Thank you to everyone involved."
To add to Widnes' feeling of being the home team at St James' their numerous travelling fans were housed on the Gallowgate End, although similarities ended their as the Vikings put on a thrilling first-half show - something their football counterparts have rarely been able to lay claim to of late.
Sir Bobby Robson's son, Andrew Robson, said of Widnes' donation: "It's been an absolute pleasure working with them.
"To see the players and fans in black and white stripes, here at St James' Park, was very special. Watching rugby league here has been a new experience for me and something I've enjoyed a great deal."