Chris Thorman relishing first game at Kingston Park

Newly-promoted Betfred Championship side Keighley Cougars are not only Newcastle Thunder’s first opposition of 2023, but also the first under new head coach Chris Thorman.

Speaking ahead of Saturday’s fixture, Thorman said: “Normally pre-season games are considered a necessary evil. You don’t want to run the risk of getting injuries but you also want to see how your team are going.

“It’s even more important considering Saturday’s fixture is against a team that are in the same division.

Highlighting the changes the club has been through in recent time, Thorman alluded to a more significant importance to the pre-season friendly against Keighley Cougars, saying: “On reflection of where we are at as a club, I think it’s an important day.

“We’re wanting to make some subtle changes to the club and some not-so-subtle, in terms of how we want to progress and move forward. I think it’s going to be a real indicator as to where this group are at.”

Not shying away from his excitement for the fixture, Thorman added: “I’m really excited and looking forward to the game.

“Pre-season is never long enough for a coach but it’s always too long for a player. It’s funny how my opinion has changed over a decade from player to coach.

“What better way to kick off the Thunder season than on Saturday afternoon at Kingston Park. There’s no better place to do it.”

Speaking on this week’s build up, Thorman said: “Tuesday’s session there was a real buzz around the group, we had over 30 on field training which is the most we’ve had at a session so far.

“Some of those lads are going to feature for the reserves and academy, but there was a real good feeling and atmosphere in the group.”

Alluding to the game itself, Thorman admitted to a few cobwebs that will need to be dusted off, saying: “There’s going to be some chopping and changing and we’re probably not going to see a lot of continuity on the field.

“At the same time, I’m sure we’ll get enough out of it to have an idea of who’s ready and who needs a bit of work.”

Looking ahead at tomorrow’s opposition, Thorman added: “They’ve really improved in their squad.

“I know from experience of moving from League 1 to Championship, you definitely have to do that. I think Rhys Lovegrove has done a great job in that area.

“They’ve obviously invested heavily and there’s a bit of an expectation on this Keighley side, which often isn’t the case with a newly-promoted team. Particularly when they’re signing the likes of Luke Gale recently.”

“I know plenty of those Keighley boys, I’ve coached against them and coached with a few of them as well. They will certainly have our respect.”

“It's always interesting game one, but it’s more about ticking the physical boxes first of all, and the more technical and tactical systems will come later.”

Tickets to the 4:30pm kick-off against Keighley Cougars are on sale NOW and can be purchased HERE.

Newcastle Thunder season tickets are also on sale and available to purchase. From as little as £99 for adults and £10 for U6s, you can secure your seat HERE.