Oldham v Hunslet: Thornton wants a reaction from his troops after Easter setbacks

A dismal Good Friday setback against Keighley Cougars separated losses to Bradford Bulls in Betfred League One and the Ladbrokes Challenge Cup.

But Hunslet – who were previously on an eight-game winning run – caused Bulls some problems in the tie five days ago and Thornton said that gives them something to build on for tomorrow’s league game at Oldham, (3pm).

“I certainly saw an improvement in attitude and desire on Monday from Friday’s game,” Thornton said.

“There was more steel about us. We had a lot of guys making their seasonal debut and we had to make a lot of changes and to put in that kind of performance was pleasing.”

A matching effort will be needed tomorrow. Oldham have a similar record of two wins from four league games and Thornton warned: “It is an important game, we have lost two [league fixtures] on the bounce and we want to stop that – we don’t want to be losing too many more.

“It will be a tough game, they have put a very good team together and they are always tough to beat on their own ground.

“They are travelling well and not conceding many points so we will have to be at our best.

“I am looking for a reaction from those two defeats.”