Doncaster RLFC: Thornton with lots to ponder after Hemel win

Centre Sam Doherty has scored five tries in the last two games deputising for the injured Jason Tali against London Skolars and Liam Welham, switched to second-row, against Hemel.

Winger Aaron Jones-Bishop also produced an outstanding display at the weekend in his first League One start since March.

“Aaron’s had to be very patient and has been playing with Milford in the Yorkshire League,” said Thornton, who rested ever-present Louis Sheriff.

“He scored two tries and created a couple of others – notably the one for Jason – and overall did really well. He’s got genuine pace and he’s dangerous when he plays like he did on Sunday.

“He’s a different sort of player to Louis who has done a great job for us this season.”

Another man to catch Thornton’s eye was former Toll Bar hooker Kieran Cross. He came off the bench to make an impact in his first game for several weeks.

“Kieran played well when he came on and scored two good tries and I would have left him on for a bit longer had he not taken a knock to his hip,” said Thornton.

“I’m delighted for the guys who came in, though they have given me a right headache.

“But I’m not complaining because it’s a good position to be in going into the play-offs in a couple of weeks’ time.”