Doncaster RLFC: Thornton forced to make changes for Challenge Cup

“We haven’t got the three Hull FC players we had in our opening game against North Wales last week because the club don’t want them to be cup-tied,” said Thornton.

Better news for Thornton, who now expects stand-off Jordan Howden, who has had an X-ray and who is now awaiting a scan on his hip problem, to be out until the end of next month at the least, is that Tom Carr is fit again.

Normally a full-back, Carr will cover for Howden at half-back as he did in pre-season games.

Centre Sam Doherty is still unavailable due to work commitments and wing David Foggin-Johnson will face a late fitness test today.

“David’s been struggling this week and we won’t take a risk with him,” said Thornton, who continues to lack forwards Mike Kelly and Mark Castle.

“It’s a pity we’ve had to change a winning side though we knew that would be the case, but it gives other players the chance to show what they can do in what will be a tough game.

“They’ve got a good reputation in the amateur game and they’ll be very enthusiastic and I’m sure their supporters will make it an intimidating environment for our players.

“A lot will depend on our mental attitude; if we think all we’ve got to do is to turn up on the day and we’ll roll them over then we could come unstuck.

“But if we adopt a professional attitude, which I’m sure we will, then I think we’ll be too strong for them in the forwards.”