YORK City Knights returned to winning ways with a convincing 32-6 victory over Widnes Vikings at the LNER Community Stadium.

Here are five things that we learnt from the weekend.

1. York City Knights produce best performance of season

Of York's five wins to date, it would be fairly straightforward to choose the Widnes victory as the most complete.

The Knights showed plenty of character in digging deep to win at Batley Bulldogs amid the Mount Pleasant mud bath, but, owing to the conditions and just one available half-back, could not show their attacking best.

Against Widnes, particularly in the first half, York scored some stunning tries and looked a far more rounded offensive unit with three halves on their 17.

Combined with that was a willing defence which ensured that the Vikings - who enter the match with the best attacking record in the Betfred Championship - only scored one try.

2. Three half-backs makes immediate impact

What a difference a few months make in rugby league. York's issues with half-backs last year was widely documented as wingers, forwards and various loanees filled in there.

Fast forward to present and head coach James Ford was able to select all his three halves in the same 17 for the first time.

A hamstring injury to Jamie Ellis meant that Brendan O'Hagan and Liam Harris were the most prominent pair, with O'Hagan in particular standing out.

The Australian created Matty Marsh's two tries and also scored himself for good measure.

With such an array of playmakers in their ranks, York can keep their opponents guessing from kicks as well as having fresh and different options throughout.

3. A dream debut for Levi Edwards

Leeds Rhinos loanee Edwards could scarcely have wished for a better debut for the Knights.

Early on, Edwards skipped past three Widnes defenders before handing off for O'Hagan to race to the line from halfway.

And the youngster was involved again when he superbly offloaded for Will Jubb to assist Brad Ward's score out wide.

York will surely be hoping that the coaching changes at Leeds this week do not have an impact on Edwards' season-long loan at the Knights.

4. Disappointing display from Widnes

For all the credit that it is fair to place on York, it should also be stated that Widnes were under par, particularly after half time.

At the end of a competitive first half, dangerous full-back Jack Owens twice came close to creating tries but ultimately got his final kick and pass wrong.

In the second half though, the Vikings offered little and their routine of kicking high to teenager Ward became a stale and predictable play.

The 2022 season remains in its early stages but Widnes fans will questioning their early-season optimism now after three straight losses.

5. Double header a great success again

The growth and success of York City Knights Ladies remains a remarkable story, further highlighted by their 46-0 Women's Challenge Cup win over Wigan Warriors to kick off the afternoon.

A healthy crowd turned out for the Ladies and the move to an earlier kick-off appears to have benefitted all involved.