Joe Ford previews the start of the Premiership Cup against Sale Sharks

“As a rugby player, if you can’t get excited about Sale Sharks at home, then you shouldn’t really be playing”: Joe Ford on Sharks coming to Castle Park. 

Doncaster Knights face Premiership team, Sale Sharks on Friday night in the first round of the Premiership Rugby Cup. Head Coach, Joe Ford, explained how a week off has helped the team prepare. 

“Yeah look it was a five week block of games, back to back, so it was important to get away from the club and refresh. I think it’s been good for everyone, players and staff.” 

We are not where we want to be at the moment, but we are working so hard to get this right. And with a new team, it just takes time, the consistency of things.” 

You know, I”m confident, I know we will come good. We are training really well so I’m looking forward to this week.” 

In the week, the Knights announced the addition of two young Edinburgh rugby loan players who will be joining the club for the cup. Ford said: “I hope they will bring physicality, they’re obviously two forwards who are highly rated up in Scotland.”

“We messaged Edinburgh, just for a little bit of reinforcement in that area and they had Tom and Euan who are both needing game time in the next month, so it works perfectly for us. I’m excited to see what they can bring.” 

Ford looked ahead to Friday nights fixture: 

“As a rugby player, if you can’t get excited about Sale Sharks at home, then you shouldn’t really be playing. There’s been a great buzz this week.

“The crowds looking decent as well which gives the lads a lift. I think it’s really important that we use that, you know, and start the game well to get the crowd behind us and then, hopefully it’ll be a good game.”  

“I know Sale are going to send a pretty decent team so I’m looking forward to it.” 

The Head Coach explained how the Prem Cup competition is a really important learning opportunity for the club, “It’s brilliant experience, with everything the Prem Cup brings.” 

“They’re obviously full time outfits like us, it attracts bigger crowds, etcetera. It’s where, obviously, this club want’s to be at some point in the future.”

“It’s great to test ourselves, and the northern side of it is good too. Newcastle, Sale, Caldy, will be really good. I’m looking forward to testing ourselves against two of the best teams in the Premiership.” 

Tickets are limited but still on Sale – secure yours now! 

TEAM NEWS: Knights named to face the Sharks at Castle Park

Joe Ford and Sir Ian McGeechan have named their squad to take on Premiership Club, Sale Sharks on Friday Night. 

With Ben Murphy missing out due to being cited for a high tackle during the Bedford game, Morgan Strong is given the captaincy for Friday’s fixture. 

Strong is accompanied on the back row by Archie Smeaton and our brand new short term loan player, Tom Currie. Josh Williams and Thom Smith make up the second row, with Andrew Turner, George Roberts and Joe Jones in the front row. 

Our half back pairing remains the same as the last game, with Ollie Fox at 9 and Russell Bennett at 10. In the centres, George Wacokecoke returns from injury to join Connor Edwards. This means that Zach Kerr will be rested. 

Our back three also stays the same as Bedford, with Jordan Olowofela and Harry Davey on the wings, and Telusa Veainu at full back. 

Fred Davies, Jasper McGuire and Lewis Thiede are the replacement front row. Euan McVie, the second of the temporary loan pairings, will come on in the second row. 

Ben Chapman, who can play back row as well as hooker, is acting as back row replacement this week. 

Alex Dolly and Morgan Bunting make up the half back replacements, with Maliq Holden as the spare back on the bench. 

Starting XV | 15, Telusa Veainu. 14, Harry Davey. 13, George Wacokecoke. 12, Connor Edwards. 11, Jordan Olowofela. 10, Russell Bennett. 9, Ollie Fox. 1, Andrew Turner. 2, George Roberts. 3, Joe Jones. 4, Josh Williams. 5, Thom Smith. 6, Tom Currie. 7, Archie Smeaton. 8, Morgan Strong (C). 

Replacements | 16, Fred Davies. 17, Jasper McGuire. 18, Lewis Thiede. 19, Euan McVie. 20, Ben Chapman. 21, Alex Dolly. 22, Morgan Bunting 23, Maliq Holden.

Unavailable for selection due to injury: Semesa Rokoduguni, Cory Teague, Logovi’i Mulipola, Adam Hopkinson, Conor Davidson, Taniela Ramasibana. 

Tickets for this fixture are still available for purchase! With seated tickets mainly sold out, it is guaranteed to be a fantastic atmosphere at Castle Park. 

Friday 1st Nov – 7:30 PM Kick off! 

Secure your ticket here! 

 

Doncaster Knights and TwentyFour IT agree another season of sponsorship

Doncaster Knights are delighted to extend their partnership with Doncaster-based tech company, TwentyFourIT.

TwentyFourIT is an IT support and cyber security company with bases in Doncaster and Bracknell, that provide tailor-made IT Support across South Yorkshire, the UK and even internationally. Gold Members of the Doncaster Chamber, TwentyFourIT have earned this accolade by serving more than 100 local businesses in the local region with best-in-class IT Support, Solutions and Cyber Security Services.
The IT firm have been loyal supporters and benefactors of Doncaster Knights for many seasons, providing help with our Internet and emails. This season opted for a larger deal, alongside their usual advertising, with sponsorship of the Knights training kit for the 150th anniversary year.

Last week, Director, Michael Smith, and Chief Technical Officer, Tony Houlihan popped down to Castle Park to celebrate the deal. Houlihan, who is a passionate rugby fan himself, said “rugby is not just a sport. It’s a community, a way of life, and a symbol of what we stand for – resilience, teamwork, family and dedication. These values mirror what we strive for in our business every day. Sponsoring the Knights is just one of the ways we are giving back to the community that has supported us for so long.”

Tracey Owen, Commercial and Partnership Executive, has been pivotal in negotiations in this deal, expressing how “we, as a club, are delighted that TwentyFour IT are continuing with their sponsorship at Doncaster Knights this season, in our very special 150th Anniversary Year. TwentyFour IT are our official Training & Leisurewear Sponsor this season, which sees their branding across all training kit. A highly valued sponsor at Doncaster Knights we welcome them into all home games in their Executive Box where they regularly entertain their clients and local businesses in and around Doncaster. We are thrilled that our partnership with TwentyFour IT continues to grow and thank them very much for all their ongoing support.”

This deal is proof of a great business and personal relationship between TwentyFourIT and the club, and one that has proven to stand the test of time, and everyone involved hopes that this will continue for years to come. To learn more about all offerings TwentyFourIT have, you can read more on their website.

If you are interested about the sponsorship opportunities at Doncaster Knights, contact Tracey Owen via email: towen@castle-park.co.uk; or via telephone 01302 831388.

Newcastle Falcons Away – Supporters Coach information

Doncaster Knights first away game of the cup is against Newcastle Falcons on SUNDAY, November 10th with a 3pm kickoff. 

The cost of the coach is £870 so it is important that we have as full a coach as possible to keep the maximum amount we charge at £30 per supporter. 30+ on the coach would be great! 

TO BOOK A PLACE: Message John Lowe on 079 7711 2706 !

The booking needs to be completed by noon on Monday, November 4th – You must text John Lowe before 9am on that day!

The coach will leave Buckley’s garage in Blaxton at 10.00am and, after our usual pickups in Auckley, Branton, Cantley and Armthorpe should arrive at Castle Park at around 10.30pm. From there it will proceed along Balby Road for a pick-up opposite the Winning Post before heading north. If you are leaving your car at the club please leave it on the limestone car park.

The coach will leave Newcastle for the return journey at 5.30pm

MATCH DAY GUIDE – KNIGHTS V SALE SHARKS

All the important information for Friday nights game!

  • Doncaster Knights v Sale Sharks
  • 7:30 PM Kick-Off
  • Friday 1st November
  • Castle Park

PLEASE NOTE: This fixture is expected to be much busier than usual, so we recommend arriving in good time to secure parking and enjoy food/drink before kick off. 

Turnstiles open from 5pm!

Tickets: 

Tickets for the fixture are cheaper when purchased online, however can be bought from the ticket window on the day. Season Tickets are eligible for all Premiership Cup games. 

The ticket window is located around the back of the Lloyd De Mulder stand. 

Turnstiles: 

We have now added turnstiles to the ground allowing easier and quicker match day access! It is as simple as scanning your ticket at the gate to trigger entry through the turnstile! 

Parking:

Parking is available on site, it costs £5 and operates on a first come, first serve basis. 

Parking is also available for £3 at Outwood Academy Danum and The Sportsman pub, both are a just a short walk away. 

Food and Drink: 

We will have a variety of Food and Drink options available on match day. All bars will be open! 

Our famous Cow Pie will be available at the Knights Fayre, along with a selection of other hot food. You can also purchase pasties and hot drinks at the end of the concourse bar.

CAM Coffee will be on site for hot drinks and you can purchase your sweet treats from the sweet van! 

Live Sport: 

We will be showing Northampton v Leicester on the concourse projector screen.

Club Shop:

Our club shop will be open before the game for you to purchase your Doncaster Knights shirts and merchandise. 

PHOENIX AND DEMONS FUNDRAISING 

The Doncaster Phoenix and Doncaster Demons team will be collecting for Doncaster Mind to raise money for the charity. Remember to bring some spare change to contribute to the local cause!

Tickets still on sale here!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Knights sign two Edinburgh players on short-term loan to boost squad ahead of the Prem Cup

Ewan Mcvie, 19, and Tom Currie, 20, will be temporarily joining the Knights from Edinburgh Rugby ahead of the Premiership Cup campaign.

McVie, joined the Edinburgh Rugby pro-academy ahead of the 2023/24 season. The second row has featured for Scotland U20s and Heriot’s Rugby in the FOSROC super Series Sprint after playing the majority of his rugby with Edinburgh Accies.

McVie

Currie is a back row, who has also competed for Scotland u20’s and joined Edinburgh’s pro academy for the 2023/24 season. Following in brother Matt’s footsteps, Currie impressed while playing school rugby at the city’s Merchiston Castle School.

Currie

Both have recently featured in Edinburgh’s A team, including a game against Bath United. And just last weekend, had their first taste of Championship Rugby when Edinburgh A faced Ealing Trailfinders.

Doncaster Knights are very excited about the addition of two exciting young forwards as we turn our attention to the Premiership Cup.

The Premiership cup begins this Friday as we host Sale Sharks on Friday Night! Click here for tickets!

Matchday Experience Update

Dear Knights Fans,

I’m pleased to share some exciting updates about your matchday experience here at Castle Park. We’ve been working hard to make the game day as enjoyable and seamless as possible, and I’m happy to announce a few new improvements for the upcoming matches.

New Pitch Perimeter Padding 
Safety is a priority, and we’ve installed brand-new padding around the pitch perimeter on the East terrace and De Mulder Lloyd Stand sides.  This enhancement ensures not only the safety of our players but also provides a cleaner look to the field. This work has been completed in-line with the RFU minimum standards regarding the pitch perimeter and its recommended distance from the touchlines. 

Electronic Turnstiles for Quick Entry
We know you’re eager to get inside and support the Knights, so we’ve introduced new electronic turnstiles to streamline entry. Expect a faster, more efficient way into the ground so you can focus on cheering on the team. We will be sharing videos across our social media channels next week ahead of our game vs Sale Sharks of what you can expect.

Improved Service at the Knights Fayre
We’ve taken note of your feedback and have worked to speed up service at the Knights Fayre. We will have a 2nd till in operation going forward, so whether it’s food or soft drinks, we’re committed to getting you what you need more quickly, so you spend less time in line and more time enjoying the game.

Enhanced Music Experience
To keep the energy high, we’re adding a bit of extra spirit to long match stoppages with more tailored music selections. We hope this creates a vibrant atmosphere for you to enjoy and we’ve made an extra effort to reduce the volume specifically on the east terrace after recent feedback from supporters.

Thank you for your continued support of the Doncaster Knights. I hope to see many of you for what will be a great night against Sale Sharks here next Friday 1st November 2024 in Round 1 of the Premiership Cup.

See you at Castle Park!

Best regards,

Tom Foy
Head of Commercial, Doncaster Knights

 

RFU Disciplinary: Ben Murphy to miss Prem Cup Fixtures

Knights Captain, Ben Murphy will miss at least 2 of the next 3 games as we begin our Premiership Cup campaign.

Murphy was cited for dangerous tackling, contrary to World Rugby Law 9.13, during a game against Bedford Blues on Saturday 19th October.  

Ben has admitted the charge and received a three-match ban which will be reduced to two if he successfully completes the World Rugby Coaching Intervention Programme (CIP).

Matches Ben will miss:
01/11/2024 v Sale Sharks (Premiership Rugby Cup)
10/11/2024 v Newcastle Falcons (Premiership Rugby Cup)
23/11/2024 v Caldy (subject to completion of CIP)

In responding to the charge, Ben accepted the charge and said,

“I was unaware of any head contact at the time, I felt I had made contact with Bedford 6’s shoulder and the fact he played on led me to believe he was physically fine. Upon viewing the video clip I can see there is head contact which has upset me as I pride myself on being a clean and fair player. This is simply down to poor technique which I will now work on in training. Having been made aware of the incident and viewing the clip I have made contact with Bedford to apologise and check on their player’s wellbeing.”

 

 

Ben could be available for selection for our cup fixture away to Caldy on Saturday 23rd November, subject to completion of the coaching intervention programme.

Stonebridge Corporate become latest sponsor of the Knights

Doncaster Knights are proud to announce the first year of sponsorship with insurance company, Stonebridge Corporate.

Stonebridge Corporate is an independent insurance broker, based in Surrey now with a base in Doncaster, that provides flexible and straightforward insurance solutions to medium to large sized businesses, underpinned by exceptional personal service. They pride themselves on their independence, which allows them to offer clients the best possible and impartial advice. They have the experience and expertise to provide insurance solutions and risk advice across many sectors, with particular strengths in construction, food and beverage, manufacturing, haulage and technology. For their first season with the club, Stonebridge put pen to paper with a kit sponsorship on shoulders of our 150th Anniversary kit.

George Rowley, Sales Director, shared in his excitement over the agreement, stating that he and Stonebridge “are delighted to be one of the shirt sponsors for Doncaster Knights this season on a memorable year, celebrating their 150th anniversary. After recently opening our new Northern office in Bawtry, Doncaster we were delighted for the opportunity to be part of the Doncaster Knights family and hope to connect and meet with as many local businesses and fans at numerous games throughout the season. Albeit, this is our first season, we certainly see the longevity in the partnership and look forward to many successful years together on and off the field. Our package includes the shirt sponsorship and a fantastic signed framed shirt for our office. We shall definitely be taking advantage of the hospitality at times during the season and look forward to showcasing the superb facilities at Castle Park to our clients, family and friends.”

Tracey Owen, Sales Executive, expressed her joy in the partnership saying “the club are delighted to partner with Stonebridge Corporate Insurance Brokers this season who are an independent insurance broker having recently opened offices in Bawtry. With their interest in rugby and the local community their shirt sponsorship was the perfect way to showcase their brand locally and we have looking forward to welcoming them to games to entertain their clients.”

This deal is the start of a bright future for both the Knights and Stonebridge Corporate, with a sponsorship that will definitely stand the test of time with brilliant new business opportunities and a new collection of fans at Castle Park. To learn more about all that Stonebridge have to offer, you can read more on their website.

To learn more about the sponsorship opportunities at Doncaster Knights, contact Tracey Owen via email: towen@castle-park.co.uk; or via telephone 01302 831388.

Buy A Stranger A Gift At Christmas Appeal – People Focused Group (PFG)

Buy A Gift For A Stranger Annual Christmas Appeal
 
The People Focused Group (PFG). The Wellness Centre, 45 Montrose Avenue, Intake, Doncaster, DN2 6PL
Tel 01302 618507
 
Are Collecting Presents to Give Out To The Children And Adults Of Doncaster Who Will Receive Nothing This Christmas Time.
 
All Gifts Big or Small are Welcome, it Might Be The Only Present Someone Might Receive. Cash Donations Can Also Be Received.  
 
If you would Like to Help, Please contact the Wellness Centre Or Drop The Presents off at the Wellness Centre – Address and contact details above.
 
Thank you For Your Kindness
 

LOAN WATCH: Metcalfe, Mitchell and Harrison contribute to yet another Bury St Edmunds win

Bury St Edmunds make it three wins on the bounce after they defeated Worthing Raiders 32-29 on Saturday.

The team consisted of three Doncaster Knights loanees, Will Metcalfe, who started on the wing and moved to scrum half during the second half. Second row, James Harrison and prop, Calvin Mitchell.

Metcalfe who has now scored 6 tries in 7 games, claimed another for Bury. Metcalfe’s try followed a series of back and forth kicks before he scored off a counter attack. 

James Harrison

Head Coach, Jacob Ford, spoke about the relationship between Bury St Edmunds and Doncaster Knights in a recent episode of ‘The National League Rugby Show’. 

Ford said: “The Donny lads have been brilliant, they’re very humble they are keen to get better. They fit into the group massively in terms of the cultural side of it and the off field stuff too. The travel just shows their commitment to it, and that they want to see Bury succeed and do the best for the club.” 

“But also, on the field they are 100% committed, when you get a 100% committed player they’re the ones you want to work with.”

“They’ve added a different dynamic to the group that we have probably not had before which is great because we can start to develop our game and do things a little bit differently. But ultimately, they’re a high standard of player, they’re hungry and they want to get better.”

Bury St Edmunds have shot up to 6th in the National League Two East table and face second in the league, Guernsey on Saturday 26th Oct.