Doncaster RLFC: Thornton happy to have local lads on board

“It is something that I’ve always been keen on doing since I’ve been a coach,” said Thornton this week.

“I think having local players in your squad is both good for the town and the club.

“Both lads have come in on trial and shown what they can do and they’ve both earned themselves a contract.

“Not only will they help inspire other local players but hopefully they will also help the club to attract more spectators.”

Both men are set to feature in the club’s final warm-up game against Leeds Rhinos at the Keepmoat Stadium tomorrow (3pm).

“It would obviously be a huge boost to our confidence going into our first competitive game in a fortnight’s time were we to beat Leeds,” said Thornton.

“But to be honest I’m more interested in the performance.

“I want to get our sequences and combinations working and take a look at players we’ve not seen much of.

“As I said earlier in the week, I want to give the players who are playing their first game as many minutes on the field as possible.

“That might disrupt things at times – although I will try and replicate a game situation whenever possible.

“For instance, props Makali Aizue and Matt Nicholson will play 20 or 25 minutes in the first half and then come off for a rest and go back on for a second spell after the break as would be the case in a league game.”