Doncaster Knights bounced back with a huge 42-15 win over Cambridge in their first CHAMP game at Castle Park.
Cambridge scored the first points of the game when Donny gave away a penalty at the breakdown, giving the visitors the opportunity to claim three points. 0-3. They continued to apply some pressure onto Doncaster and distributed the ball quickly between players, this eventually resulted in a try. A successful conversion meant they were 0-10 up.
Doncaster soon warmed into the game with an impressive try by Telusa Veainu. Connor Edwards carried hard before switching the direction of play and offloading to Bennett. Bennett broke the line and flung the ball out to Veainu. Bennett added the conversion. 7-10.
Ryan Olowofela carried brilliantly up the wing, gifting Doncaster a scrum 5m out. The pack dominated the set piece and Fox shipped the ball out quickly. Captain Ben Murphy, picked the ball from the back of the breakdown and drove his way under the posts. Bennett added the extras to make the half time score 14-10.
Ollie Fox scored a stellar try on his 50th appearance to start the second half well. It was centre, Zach Kerr who ignited the play with a brilliant chip and chase, which he gathered himself. Connor Edwards ran the support line and snatched the ball before shipping it to Rokoduguni. Rokodugni made the final offload back inside to Fox, who went the rest of the way. Bennett’s conversion was good, 21-10.
The Knights really started to come into their own as another try quickly followed for our other half-centurion, Rhys Tait. Donny executed the line out brilliantly, popping the ball up to Tait. The back row attacked the gap with great pace to get over the line. Bennett added the conversion again. 28-10.
A free kick at scrum time meant Donny could continue to attack and our centre partnership linked up brilliantly to open the space for Kerr to power over the line. Bennett with yet another conversion. 35-10.
Cambridge then claimed one for themselves with a lovely cross field kick out wide. 35-15.
It was all Donny from then on, with Zach Kerr scoring his second of the day. Fox intercepted Cambridge’s ball and tipped it backwards. Kerr gathered the ball and ran it in from about 22m out. Bennett added the final kick to earn 100% off the T.
Full time score, 42-15.
Donny are on the road again next week to face Cornish Pirates, before we host Worcester Warriors at Castle Park in a fortnight. Secure your tickets for what is set to be a huge game!
In the heart of Doncaster’s sporting heartbeat, where the roar of the crowd meets the precision of elite preparation, a game-changing alliance has been forged. We’re thrilled to announce that the Doncaster Knights have teamed up with the High Performance Centre (HPC) at Eco Power Stadium as our official performance partners. This isn’t just a collaboration—it’s a commitment to pushing boundaries, sharpening edges, and elevating every player to their peak. As we lace up for another season of Championship rugby, the HPC stands ready to fuel our charge, blending cutting-edge science with the grit that defines Knights rugby.
Imagine a facility where data drives dominance, where recovery isn’t reactive but proactive, and where the line between training and triumph blurs. That’s the promise of the HPC, and it’s right here in Doncaster.
The Heart of High Performance: Inside the HPC
The HPC is more than a gym or a lab; it’s an elite ecosystem designed to unlock athletic potential. Specialising in performance testing and sports therapy, it boasts state-of-the-art tools like VO2 max, force plates for biomechanical analysis, and advanced recovery suites that rival those at Premiership clubs.
From cryotherapy to isometric dynamometers for precise muscle assessment, every inch of the space is geared toward one goal: measurable improvement. “We’re breaking down barriers to make elite-level sports science accessible to all athletes,” the HPC team emphasises, fostering an environment where pros and aspiring talents alike can thrive. And with its prime location in the stadium, it’s not just convenient—it’s immersive, surrounded by the energy of live sport.
But what does this mean for the Knights? Everything. As performance partners, the HPC has been instrumental in our build-up to the 2025/26 campaign, providing tailored support that goes beyond the basics.
Beyond the Pitch: Nurturing the Next Generation
What sets the HPC apart? It’s not just for the pros. At its core is a commitment to education, with the BSc (Hons) in Sports, Fitness and Exercise Science—a three-year degree validated and awarded by the University of Hull (UCAS Code: C602).
Personalised learning is key: Small cohorts mean tailored modules, from biomechanics to sports psychology, all applied in real-world scenarios. Experiential learning shines through placements at the HPC, where students shadow Knights and Rovers sessions, analysing data fresh from the field. Embedded qualifications—Level 3, 4, and 5 in Sport Massage—equip grads with industry creds, integrated seamlessly into the curriculum.
The focus? Employability in elite sport. Year 3’s independent research project might see a student dissecting Knights’ scrum dynamics, while electives in strength and conditioning prep for roles with pro teams. “Our facilities provide Sports students with the ultimate environment,” the HPC notes, thanks to exclusive access via Knights and Rovers partnerships. Graduates aren’t just degree-holders; they’re ready-to-deploy pros, with alumni already embedding in regional academies.
And it’s not isolated to rugby. The HPC’s roster of partners underscores Doncaster’s sporting synergy. Since 2024, they’ve been the performance backbone for Doncaster Rovers, delivering pre-season testing and unlimited recovery access that powered their title-winning charge last season. From Rovers’ recovery pods to Knights’ velocity-based training, the HPC is the common thread weaving excellence across codes
Want to join the action? Aspiring sports scientists can kickstart their journey with the HPC’s elite degree programme, while athletes and teams can tap into world-class facilities with bespoke bookings and performance packages. Reach out to Josh Wroot at [email protected] to unlock your potential today!
Darren Fearn and Sir Ian McGeechan have named their side to face Cambridge at Castle Park tomorrow afternoon.
Two huge milestones at the club this weekend, with Scrum Half, Ollie Fox and Back Row, Rhys Tait both reaching 50 appearances for Doncaster Knights. Everyone at the club extends a huge congratulations to the duo.
A few changes to the line up this week, with Conor Davidson starting in the front row with Joe Jones. George Roberts remains the starting hooker this weekend.
Our front row on the bench consists of Fred Davies, (hooker) and props, Andrew Turner and Loogvi’i Mulipola.
Our starting second row is captain Ben Murphy and Ehize Ehizode. With Adam Hopkinson, Rhys Tait and Thom Smith in the back row.
The other forwards amongst the replacements are Morgan Jones and Josh Williams.
The back line starts with half centurion Ollie Fox at nine, paired with Russell Bennett at 10. Connor Edwards comes back into the starting line up to join Zach Kerr in the centres.
Our back three is made up of Ryan Olowofela, Semesa Rokoduguni and Telusa Veainu.
Scrum Half Will Wooton and Fly Half Morgan Bunting are named on the bench alongside back three, Jordan Olowofela.
SQUAD: 1. Conor Davidson, 2. George Roberts, 3. Joe Jones, 4. Ben Murphy (C), 5. Ehize Ehizode, 6. Adam Hopkinson, 7. Rhys Tait, 8. Thom Smith, 9. Ollie Fox. 10. Russell Bennett, 11. Ryan Olowofela, 12. Connor Edwards 13. Zach Kerr, 14. Semesa Rokoduguni, 15. Telusa Veainu
REPLACEMENTS: 16. Fred Davies, 17. Andrew Turner, 18. Logovi’i Mulipola, 19. Morgan Jones, 20. Josh Williams, 21. Will Wootton, 22. Morgan Bunting, 23. Jordan Olowofela.
Unavailable for selection: Alex Dolly, East Timor Viliamu, Josh Bainbridge
Join us for an action packed family day at Castle Park!
Doncaster Knights can now confirm the latest on an injury to Scrum Half, Alex Dolly.
Alex Dolly suffered an injury to his groin during the Edinburgh Home game whilst goal kicking. After being immediately removed he was assessed by the medical team and the decision was made to scan at the earliest opportunity.
Following results from the scan and consultation with a specialist, Dolly will undergo surgery at the end of this week. He will work with the medical team for the next few months with a planned return to play in the New Year.
Doncaster Knights travelled to Nottingham for round one of the new CHAMP league. In a gritty battle, Nottingham came out on top, defeating the Knights 26-8.
The hosts scored their first try within the first minute as full back, Evan Mitchell ran a good support line when they broke through Knights defence. Conversion was successful 7-0.
As both teams battled not only each other, but the conditions too. There wasn’t another score until the final play of the first half.
There were lots of positives in the Knights’ defence during the first 40, some scrum penalties won, and a great line out steal from Rhys Tait. The Knights came close many times but couldn’t manage to get over the line.
Soon, Nottingham worked their way up to the line, and after spending nearly 5 minutes on the line, they eventually drove it over, with the clock in the red.
Half time score 12-0.
The weather only worsened into the second half, with 50mph winds and heavy rain causing multiple errors from both teams.
Zach Kerr kicked a brilliant 50:2, which built some nice momentum for the Knights, and allowed them to attack in the 22.
Donny attacked for another 5 minutes before Russell Bennett kicked an impressive penalty to get some points on the board. From between the halfway line and the 22, Bennett showed great composure to battle the conditions and claim the 3 points. 12-3.
Nottingham fought back and grabbed another score as a penalty allowed them to kick for the corner. The Knights do well to hold out the driving maul, but as the ball is shipped out, they find the way through. Another conversion put them 19-3 ahead.
Another Nottingham try followed in similar fashion, with Micheal Green powering over the line. And they added another conversion for their final points of the game 26-3.
With fresh legs on the pitch, Donny start to build some good phases in attack. Ollie Fox picks from the back of the breakdown and darts into space. Will Wootton, our scrum half replacement who was playing on the wing, ran a brilliant support line and showed great pace to finish the try.
Full time score 26-8.
Doncaster will now turn their attention to our next game, Cambridge at home. Get behind the Knights as they look to bounce back! Tickets available here.
Darren Fearn and Sir Ian McGeechan have named their first CHAMP line up of the season. The team will make the short journey to Nottingham for a Friday night Champ opener.
Thom Smith starts at number eight for what is set to be his 50th club appearance. Everyone at the club extends a huge congratulations to the back row, a key presence amongst our squad.
In the front row, Logovi’i Mulipola takes the loosehead side, with Joe Jones at tighthead. George Roberts starts between them at hooker.
In the second row, captain Ben Murphy is joined by Morgan Jones, making his Champ debut. Josh Bainbridge and Rhys Tait make up the rest of the back row, alongside Smith at 8.
Our replacement front row is Conor Davidson, Lewis Thiede and Fred Davies. With East Timor Viliamu and Ehize Ehizode the other forwards named in the squad.
Our backline starts with Ollie Fox at 9, and Russell Bennett at 10. Sale Sharks loan player, Will Wootton is our replacement 9, and Morgan Bunting is set to replace Bennett.
Zach Kerr and Joe Margetts link up in the centre, with Semesa Rokoduguni shifting back out to the wing. Ex-Nottingham player Ryan Olowofela starts on the other wing, with Telusa Veainu at full back. Matt McNab is our utility back amongst the replacements.
SQUAD: 1. Logovi’i Mulipola, 2. George Roberts, 3. Joe Jones, 4. Ben Murphy (C), 5. Morgan Jones, 6. Josh Bainbridge, 7. Rhys Tait, 8. Thom Smith, 9. Ollie Fox. 10. Russell Bennett, 11. Ryan Olowofela, 12. Zach Kerr, 13. Joe Margetts, 14. Semesa Rokoduguni, 15. Telusa Veainu
REPLACEMENTS: 16. Fred Davies, 17. Conor Davidson, 18. Lewis Thiede, 19. Ehize Ehizode, 20. East Timor Viliamu, 21. Will Wootton, 22. Morgan Bunting, 23. Matt McNab
You can watch the game live on clubbertv.co.uk or secure your ticket to the Knights next home game!
Doncaster Knights v Cambridge Rugby, Saturday 11th October – 2:30PM
Doncaster Knights are pleased to announce the addition of two loan signings from Sale Sharks. Scrum half, Will Wooton and Prop Tye Raymont.
Will Wootton
Will Wootton signed his first Senior Academy contract with Sale Sharks ahead of the 2023/24 season. The livewire back got into rugby after playing as a child with his two brothers. He played his junior rugby at Macclesfield Rugby Club and then, from the age of nine, at Wilmslow Rugby Club.
Will played and captained his rugby team through junior school at Terra Nova, in Cheshire, before moving to Sedbergh School in year nine, where he was vice–captain in his final year. At the age of 12 he caught the eye of Sharks coaches and joined the DPP, and it wasn’t long before he received international honours, being selected for England u18s’ tour of South Africa in the summer of 2022.
Will captained England in one tour game and then was selected again to face Wales in March, 2023.
Tye Raymont
Leeds-born Tye Raymont started playing rugby at his local club, West Park Leeds, at the age of four, staying there until he was 16.
He went to Prince Henry’s Grammar School from year seven to year 11 before leaving to go to Bishop Burton Rugby College, where he stayed until the age of 18, combining his studies with rugby at Yorkshire Academy.
Tye, who has played for England at u18 level, joined Sale in 2022 and signed his first Senior Academy contract ahead of the 2023/24 season.
Doncaster Knights are delighted to have two premiership standard players amongst the squad.
Doncaster Knights Raise £5,000 for RFU Injured Players Foundation
As part of their 150th anniversary celebrations, Doncaster Knights has raised £5,000 in support of the RFU Injured Players Foundation (IPF), who were also the club’s matchday charity partner at last weekend’s pre-season fixture against Edinburgh.
The IPF is England Rugby’s official charity and supports players from any level of the game who have sustained a life-changing injury while playing rugby union in England, specifically those which result in the loss of or use of a limb, catastrophic spinal cord injuries or acute, severe traumatic brain injuries which result in permanent functional disability.
Support is wide-ranging and can be provided for a player and their family for life if needed. The IPF also funds vital research to improve injury management and players’ quality of life, and to reduce the risk of injury in rugby.
The significant sum raised for the IPF was generated through a silent auction at the club’s150th dinner, part of a series of commemorative events planned by the Knights to mark this historic milestone season. Supporters were able to bid for a host of exclusive prizes which had been generously donated by legends of the game including Sir Ian McGeechan, George Ford, Will Greenwood and Nigel Owens, among others.
Doncaster Knights Club President, Steve Lloyd was on hand to present the £5,000 cheque to IPF Members who had been invited to enjoy Knights’ game against Edinburgh as hospitality guests.
The donation reflects the Knights’ ongoing support for the wider rugby community as they marked their 150th year.
IPF Director Karen Hood said: “We are incredibly grateful to Doncaster Knights and to everyone who contributed to the silent auction in support of the IPF.
“Match day partnerships like this are so important to help raise awareness of the IPF. Thankfully life-changing injuries remain extremely rare in our sport, but if they do happen it’s important for the rugby family to know we are here to help.
“The generosity of clubs like Doncaster Knights and IPF fundraisers enable us to offer wide-ranging support to a player and their family for life if needed.
“We have lots of fundraising initiatives throughout the year, so if Doncaster Knights’ support of the IPF has attracted your attention, we’d love you to get involved too in support of our injured players!”
To find out more visit RFUIPF.org.uk/get-involved
Follow @RFUIPF on Instagram and Facebook or @TheRugbyCharity on X
