Delight for Doncaster after landing Challenge Cup trip to face Leeds Rhinos

The Kingstone Press League One club will visit Headingley in the fifth round of the Ladbrokes Challenge Cup.

Thornton, former coach of Batley Bulldogs and a Rhinos fan, said: “We are delighted. It is fantastic, a great draw for the whole club. The players are really excited, as are we coaches.”

Doncaster have won their opening two matches in League One and beat a mainly Under-19 Leeds side 35-34 in a pre-season game at the end of January. Their squad includes former Rhinos forward Jamie Thackray and chief executive Carl Hall is also an ex-Leeds player.

“There’s a huge gulf between Super League and League One, but we are hoping to do well in our division this year so it’ll be a great measure,” Thornton added. “For individuals to pit their own skill levels against Super League players is a fantastic opportunity and we will relish it.”

Full Challenge Cup Fifth Round draw:

Leigh Centurions v Hull KR, Featherstone Rovers v Oldham, Leeds Rhinos v Doncaster, Salford Red Devils v Toronto Wolfpack, Whitehaven/Oxford v Halifax, Dewsbury Rams v Batley Bulldogs, Huddersfield Giants v Swinton Lions, York City Knights v Barrow Raiders.

Fifth round ties are scheduled to be played on the weekend beginning Friday, April 21.