Doncaster RLFC: Super incentive for Challenge Cup clash - Thornton

Dons boss Gary Thornton is looking forward to his side's clash with Hunslet Hawks tomorrow night - and eyeing a meeting with Super League opposition.
Tom CarrTom Carr
Tom Carr

Thornton’s men travel to Hunslet in the fourth round of the Challenge Cup knowing that the next round sees the introduction of the top tier sides.

And the Dons boss hopes his side can use the prospect of a big game at the Keepmoat Stadium in the next round as inspiration to get past Hunslet.

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“The Super League teams come into it in the next round so that’d be big if we can get through, and get a big draw, especially at the Keepmoat,” he said.

“We want to do well in every competition that we play in, but it’s not a competition we’ll go and win, realistically.

“Hunslet represent a good challenge. We’ve got a few injuries and the dual-reg players from Hull won’t be available but it gives some of the other lads a chance.

“Tom Carr is looking at six weeks out with a shoulder injury which is a massive blow.

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“He had a horrendous knee injury last season and he was just starting to look like his old self.”

Thornton was happy with his side’s offensive display as they recorded a second league win from their second game at Keighley on Sunday.

“We’re obviously delighted with the result,” he said.

“We gave too much away but we can’t complain with that scoreline away at Keighley, it was always going to be a tough one to win there.

“We’re looking to keep on improving as the season goes along, and we will improve.

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“I’m delighted with the start we’ve made, it’s a monkey off our back to be winning games after last season and now we’re in a confident mood. Attack-wise I can’t ask for any more from the team, it’s been a high-scoring first two games. But there’s a long way to go and we can’t get carried away.”

Tom Carr is not the only player set to miss the Hunslet game, with Makali Aizue, Ben Frankland and George Milton all carrying knocks.

However, Thornton says any new signings are not imminent.

“At this moment in time, we just monitor the situation,” he said.

“We’ve got a good situation with Hull and they often help out so maybe they can provide cover for us.

“But we’ve got a reasonably big squad, and lots of people wanting to play, so we’re not panicking at this stage.”