THUNDER PREVIEW

CHRIS Hood believes Gateshead Thunder can shunt star-studded York City Knights out of the Challenge Cup today.

Thunder entertain York at Gateshead Stadium (kick-off 3pm) in the third round of the showpiece competition, and Hood expects his men to replica breitling watches give the talented Knights a run for their money.

Welcoming Wallsend-born player-coach Chris Thorman back to the North East and the old stomping ground of his brothers and ex- Thunder men Paul and Neil, Thunder boss Hood warned his side to keep close tabs on the dangerous ball-player.

Thorman has taken on coaching duties after leaving Hull FC and Thunder rugby director Hood has tipped York to challenge for the Co- Operative One league title.

But despite the visitors' pedigree, Hood believes his side can overturn the odds and take several steps forward from last weekend's 40-12 league opening defeat at Hunslet.

He said: "The defeat last week didn't reflect the match very well and we were pretty good in a lot of areas. A couple of late tries glossed the result in their favour and if we can step up a few more levels today, then we have a great chance.

"It's always great to welcome local guys like Chris back, he Clip on charms is a quality player and a good man and he has done very well since he started out playing for Wallsend Eagles.

"He is still Super League quality and we know he is going to be dangerous to deal with - he will be keen to cause us problems."

Backing youth product Reece Young to continue to shine after his senior debut last week, Hood said the talented hooker has a lot to gain from working closely with firstchoice club hooker Ryan Clarke. Hood added: "We already have the best hooker in the competition but we have found someone who can give him real competition.

"It will help Ryan, when you have someone young and learning but hungry for game time with a lot of talent and promise, it forces you to perform. Ryan knows Reece will be breathing down his neck but he is also relishing the opportunity to help the young lad develop." GATESHEAD THUNDER: Jason Elliott, Robin Peers, Kevin Neighbour, Michael replica tag heruer watches Brown, Joe Brown, Will Bate, Liam Duffy, Tabua Cakacaka, Ryan Clarke, Chris Parker, Tom Wilson, Richie Humphries, Ade Aderiye, Matt Barron, Reece Young, Stephen Welton, David Cash.

10:46 - 2010-Apr-27 - post comment