London Skolars v Doncaster RLFC: Dons without Tali and Aizue

Skolars have already won at Doncaster in the iPro Cup and are within sight of securing a play-off spot.

“They are certainly a much improved side and coach Jermaine Coleman has put together a strong squad of mainly London-based players which includes several on loan from London Broncos,” he told The Star.

“We still have hopes of finishing in the top-four and if can we win our last three games I think we’ll give ourselves every chance of doing just that.”

The Dons will be without two of their Papua New Guinea stars.

Free-scoring centre Jason Tali fractured his thumb in the 54-4 win over South Wales and, as expected, veteran prop Makali Aizue will sit the game out.

“I’m hoping that Jason won’t be out too long,” said Thornton.

“He’s got a hospital appointment on Thursday when they’ll assess it so we’ll know more then.

“It’s obviously a blow because Jason has started to get match fit (after his delayed start to the season) and has been playing really well but we’ve got Sam Doherty to come in.

“Makali is carrying a knee injury and we are having to nurse him during the week.

“As was the case at Newcastle, we’ve decided not to risk him with it being a 4G pitch. Fortunately, we’ve got both Connor Scott and Joe Picketts-O’Donnell back.”