Doncaster Knights defeat Coventry 38-24 with a superb second half comeback. 

It was a slow start for the Knights as Coventry came out the blocks strongly. The visitors opened the scores just four minuites in with their number 8, Nayalo showing impressive power to drive over. They added the conversion to go 0-7 up. 

Shortly after, Alex Dolly kept the Knights in the game by slotting three points and closing the scores. 3-7

Coventry came back fighting, using the power of their forwards again to drive over the line for a second score. Another conversion put them 3-14 up.

The Knights continued to fight and Telusa Veainu displayed his notorious footwork, allowing him to weave in and out of Coventry’s defenders. He chucked the ball backwards for Dolly to scoop up and dive over under the posts. Dolly added the extras to his own try, scoring all 10 of Doncaster’s first points, 10-14. 

Coventry slotted a penalty and carried that momentum into another score. Their final try before the half time whistle was intercepted from under the Knight’s noses and carried the length. They added the extras 10-24. 

Half time score Doncaster 10 – 24 Coventry.

Donny came out to the second half with fantastic energy, a scrum penalty from the pack allowed Russell Bennett to kick us up to the 5m line. The forwards then put in another big shift as a dominant driving maul made its way over the line. Coventry were penalised for illegally bringing down the maul, meaning Doncaster were awarded all 7 points in the form of a penalty try. 17-24. 

With the Knights now within a converted try, they continued to display really threatening attack. Captain, Ben Murphy made an unbeliveable carry, charging nearly 10m forward with Coventry players hanging off him. In the next phase, Bennett kicked a well placed cross-field to Obi Ene, who made a fantastic run up the wing before finishing in the corner. Dolly slotted a really crucial conversion from the touchline to level the scores. 24-24. 

Doncaster’s next try followed almost instantly as Rokoduguni offloaded nicely to Jordan Olowofela. Olowofela put boot to ball and Zach Kerr chased it down, sliding over the line with the ball. Another good conversion from our scrum half. 31-24. 

The Knights started to play with little to no errors and Veainu kicked an impressive 50:22 to give Doncaster a line out inside the 22. The set peice was spotless and the back line moved the ball quickly out to Olowofela on the wing, who ducked under Coventry’s defence to score. Dolly converted again, 38-24.

Coventry continued to fight back in the attempt to earn a bonus point, but Doncaster defended brilliantly. Archie Smeaton turned the ball over at the breakdown to keep the Knights on the front foot, and eventually our replacement hooker Ben Chapman kicked a 50:22 with the clock in red, securing the Knights their 9th concecutive win. 

Congratualtions to our man of the match, Ben Murphy, for superb defence, dominant carries and his all important leadership. 

Another big test awaits the Knights next week as they travel to face Hartpury away, but they return to Castle Park in a fortnight for our all important 150th anniversary game against Cornish Pirates. 

Secure your tickets to the final home game of the season! 

Doncaster Knights have recieved a ‘Lions Origin’ plaque from the British and Irish Lions. 

The plaque has been presented to the club for playing a part in the career or ex Welsh international Darren Morris.

Darren Morris played in the 2001 British & Irish Lions tour to Australia and was a player coach at Doncaster Knights in 2013, helping us achieve promotion back into the Championship. 

We hope to see a former Knight pull on a lions jersey in the future! 

Season Tickets for the 2025/26 season will be available for purchase on Thursday May 15. 

Current season ticket holders will have until June 3rd to renew their current seat. 

Doncaster Knights return to Castle Park this weekend to face Coventry in round 19 of the Championship.

Andrew Turner and Lewis Thiede make up the props, with George Roberts the hooker in between. Jasper McGuire and Ethan Hulme are the front row replacements, with Ben Chapman as the reserve hooker.

Josh Williams returns from Navy Duty to join Ben Murphy in the second row, with our back row made up of Adam Hopkinson, Rhys Tait and Morgan Strong.

Archie Smeaton and Conor Davidson make up the remaining forward replacements.

Our half back pairing is unchanged, with Alex Dolly and Russell Bennett pulling the strings. Ollie Fox and Morgan Bunting are set to replace them. 

Semesa Rokoduguni returns from Army duty to slot into the starting back line, with Zach Kerr, Jordan Olowofela, Aidan Cross and Telusa Veainu. 

Obi Ene is the final back on the bench. 

Secure your ticket to this game now!

Starting XV | 15, Telusa Veainu. 14, Semesa Rokoduguni. 13, Jordan Olowofela, 12, Zach Kerr. 11, Aidan Cross. 10, Russell Bennett. 9, Alex Dolly. 1, Andrew Turner. 2, George Roberts. 3, Lewis Thiede. 4, Ben Murphy (C). 5, Josh Williams. 6, Adam Hopkinson. 7, Rhys Tait. 8, Morgan Strong.

Replacements | 16, Ben Chapman 17, Jasper McGuire. 18, Ethan Hulme. 19, Archie Smeaton. 20, Conor Davidson. 21, Ollie Fox. 22, Morgan Bunting. 23, Obi Ene. 

Unavailable For Selection | Thom Smith, Harry Davey, Joe Jones, Maliq Holden, Connor Edwards

Doncaster Knights season ticket holders and club sponsors are invited to apply for the chance to receive tickets to this Autumn’s international fixtures.

The Club receives a set ticket entitlement for all games and when demand outstrips supply, tickets will be allocated via a ballot system.

The available games and prices are as follows:

CLICK HERE TO APPLY!

The Knights next away game against 3rd place Hartpury is on Sunday, May 18th KO 3pm (PLEASE NOTE: SUNDAY).

To help to support the squad we will organise a coach to the game if there is sufficient demand. It is important that we have as full a coach as possible to support the Knights particularly after their encouraging recent performances and we plan to keep the maximum amount we charge at £30 per supporter. The coach will cost £1,025 (we are now into summer prices) which will require us to have 35 supporters to cover the cost.

The deadline for the booking is noon on Monday, May 12th so you must text John Lowe before 9am on that day please.

The match kicks off at 3pm so the coach will leave Buckley’s garage in Blaxton at 10am and, after our usual pickups in Auckley, Branton, Cantley and Armthorpe, should arrive at Castle Park at around 10.30am. From there it will proceed along Balby Road for a pick-up opposite the Winning Post before heading south west. If you are leaving your car at the club please leave it on the limestone car park.

The coach will leave Hartpury for the return journey 45 minutes after the final whistle please.

Please text John on 079 7711 2706 to reserve your seat.

This Saturday we will be raising money for The Victoria Cross Trust! 

The Victoria Cross Trust: Restoring the Graves of the Brave

The Victoria Cross Trust a local Doncaster charity will be at Castle Park for the Coventry game to remind us of the Doncaster Victoria Cross (VC) recipients, the links to Rugby and raise awareness of the vital work this charity does. Doncaster has seven VC recipients including one who was a professional rugby player from Bentley Thomas Bryan VC buried in Arksey and cared for by the Trust. The knights proudly display a memorial in the long-bar recognising those who played for the Knights and paid the ultimate sacrifice on the battlefields of World War 1

As part of this special occasion, Keith Lumley from the Victoria Cross Trust and a number of veterans will be present to raise awareness and funds to enable the charity to complete restorations of military graves around Doncaster that are not cared for by anyone. Keith will deliver a short speech about the charity’s mission and how supporters can get involved at the former players meal. Veterans will also be present in the long bar to encourage supporters to provide much needed funds. There will also be an opportunity to see a real Victoria Cross offering fans a unique chance to see this symbol of extraordinary bravery up close.

Rugby and the Victoria Cross

Rugby has a long and profound connection with military history. Many rugby players served with distinction during wartime, with some making the ultimate sacrifice. In WWI alone, 133 international rugby players lost their lives, including four members of England’s Five Nations-winning backline from 1914. One of them, Arthur Harrison, was posthumously awarded the Victoria Cross.

Brendan Gallagher’s research in The Rugby Paper highlights these incredible stories, demonstrating how the sport and its players answered the call to duty. A recruitment poster from the era even urged rugby players to enlist, stating that “over 90% have enlisted,” showcasing their unwavering commitment to service. You can read more about this history in Gallagher’s article here: Balm Before the Storm – England’s 1914 Slam. https://www.therugbypaper.co.uk/all/columnists/brendan-gallagher/15579/brendan-gallagher-balm-before-the-storm-englands-1914-slam/

The Victoria Cross Trust: Restoring the Graves of the Brave

The Victoria Cross Trust is dedicated to restoring and maintaining the graves of VC recipients who are not covered by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission. Many of these graves have been left unmarked, forgotten, or fallen into disrepair, with no surviving family members to care for them. The charity works tirelessly to ensure these heroes are remembered with dignity and respect.

The Doncaster based charity’s work extends beyond grave restoration—they also strive to educate the public about the lives of VC recipients, ensuring their bravery is never forgotten. Through partnerships with families, local authorities, regimental associations, and schools, the Trust helps create memorials and lasting tributes to those who displayed the highest levels of courage in service to their country.

How You Can Help

Speak to anyone of the veterans or Keith at the Coventry game to learn more about the incredible work of the Victoria Cross Trust and how you can contribute to preserving the memory of these extraordinary servicemen. Whether through buying a raffle ticket, donations, volunteering, or simply spreading awareness, every effort helps to ensure that their sacrifices are never forgotten.

🔗 Learn More: Victoria Cross Trust Website 💙 Support Their Work: Donate Here

Join us at Castle Park for this special occasion, witness history in the form of a real Victoria Cross medal, and take a moment to honour the bravery of those who gave so much.

BEFORE: 

AFTER: 

Russell Bennett opened the scores early on with an impressive solo effort. Bennett put in a chip and chase over the top of Caldy’s defence, before gathering the ball and taking off for the line. A step and a dummy allowed him to go the length and finish in the corner. 0-5.

The hosts soon answered back with a driving maul try to level the scores. A successful conversion put them in the lead. 7-5. 

The Knights then continued to work hard to get back on top, Morgan Bunting threw a long ball out wide to Obi Ene, allowing Ene to attack space and bring the Knights further up the field.

A few phases later, a forward pass gave the hosts a chance to attack, but Logovi’i Mulipola and Alex Dolly quickly worked well at the breakdown to regain possession. 

Morgan Strong carried hard to break through Caldy’s defence and spun to avoid contact before passing the ball back inside to a supporting George Roberts. Roberts finished under the posts and Alex Dolly added the extras. 7-12. 

Caldy worked their way up into the 22, but Donny defended well and the hosts opted for three points before the break. Half time score 10-12.

Bennett placed a good kick to touch from a penalty to put Donny just short of the 5m line. The forwards executed the line out well and the backs quickly shipped the ball out wide. Bunting threw another long ball to Olowofela, who finished the try. Alex Dolly added the extras. 10-19

The Knights carried the momentum into the next phase and Aidan Cross impressed again with a brilliant score. Bunting sent the ball wide to Cross, who put the burners on before stepping round the full back and going the length. Dolly added another conversion. 10-26.

Caldy put all but one man into their driving maul to push it over the line after the Knights put up a good fight. 15-26.

Roberts snatched a loose ball at the line out to ignite Doncaster’s attack. The Knights worked their way up to the try line and Rhys Tait stretched the ball over for our final try. Dolly added the extra two.

Full time score 15-33. 

The Knights look to make it nine wins on the bounce next weekend with a big game against Coventry. 

Secure your ticket now and show your support. 

Exactly one week ago, Doncaster Knights hosted a spectacular evening to commemorate their 150th anniversary with a celebration dinner at Castle Park.

The event was a true tribute to the club’s rich history, filled with excellent entertainment, delicious food, and inspiring words from special guests Nigel Owens and Will Greenwood.

The night kicked off with welcome drinks, giving attendees the chance to reconnect with old friends before heading out to witness the “1875 Rules Re-enactment Game.” This special match featured two Doncaster sides playing under the original rugby union rules as they would have been in 1875.

An opening ceremony added to the spectacle, with mini and junior players acting as flag bearers while the Armthorpe Elmfield Brass Band led the teams onto the field with a brillaint performance. The match, played with 22 players per side, was both exciting and light-hearted—delivering plenty of laughs for the crowd.

At halftime, the entertainment continued with a medieval jousting display. Two lively performers competed on inflatable horses in a series of fun challenges, including a pie-in-the-face contest and a balloon-popping showdown.

Following the pitch side fun, guests were invited to a transformed concourse that was almost unrecognisable. Draped entirely and surrounded by large screens, the room was set with round tables for dinner, creating a truly immersive environment.

Club Chairman Steve Lloyd welcomed everyone with a few heartfelt words, followed by Tony De Mulder, who offered grace before dinner began. As guests enjoyed their starters, a 10-minute video played on the surrounding screens, highlighting key moments in the club’s history—from promotions and wartime heroes to the construction of the Lloyd De Mulder Stand. With archival images, voiceovers, and music, the film offered a moving journey through Doncaster Rugby’s legacy.

Once the video concluded, it was time for a signature moment—the grand entrance of the cow pie! Our first-team players carried the iconic dish into the room, personally delivering and serving each table.

After the main course, attention turned to the evening’s guest speakers. First up was Nigel Owens, who delighted the audience with humorous and heartfelt stories from his distinguished refereeing career.

A short break for cheese and conversation set the stage for the second speaker, World Cup winner Will Greenwood. He captivated the audience with stories from his international rugby career, made touching connections to Doncaster Rugby, and expressed admiration for the club’s remarkable 150-year milestone.

The night wrapped up with a singalong of classic rugby anthems, leaving guests full of food, laughter, and unforgettable memories.

VIEW THE FULL PHOTO ALBUM HERE!

If you were unable to attend, you can catch a repeat of the entertainment at our 150th anniversary game against Cornish Pirates on Saturday 24th May. 

You can secure your ticket now!

Joe Ford and Sir Ian McGeechan have named their Doncaster Knights squad to travel to Caldy tomorrow.

Our front row remains the same as our win against Chinnor, with Conor Davidson and Logovi’i Mulipola as props, with hooker George Roberts in the middle. All of which, have recently confirmed their re-signing for next season.

Our front row replacements consist of Andre Turner, Lewis Thiede and hooker, Ben Chapman. 

In the second row, captain Ben Murphy is joined by Adam Hopkinson. Archie Smeaton starts at six, with Rhys Tait at seven and Morgan Strong at eight. The remaining forward replacements are, Ethan Hulme (Newcastle Uni loan) and Jasper McGuire. 

Alex Dolly starts at scrum half with Russell Bennett his half back partner. Ollie Fox and Morgan Bunting are the half back replacements.

In the centres, we stick to our usual, Connor Edwards on the inside and Zach Kerr on the outside. Aidan Cross and Jordan Olowofela make up the wingers, with Telusa Veainu at full back. Obi Ene is named on the bench. 

Starting XV | 15, Telusa Veainu. 14, Aidan Cross. 13, Zach Kerr 12, Connor Edwards. 11, Jordan Olowofela. 10, Russell Bennett. 9, Alex Dolly. 1, Conor Davidson. 2, George Roberts. 3, Logovi’i Mulipola. 4, Ben Murphy (C). 5, Adam Hopkinson. 6, Archie Smeaton. 7, Rhys Tait. 8, Morgan Strong.

Replacements | 16, Fred Davies 17, Andrew Turner. 18, Lewis Thiede. 19, Ethan Hulme. 20, Jasper McGuire. 21, Ollie Fox. 22, Morgan Bunting. 23, Obi Ene. 

Unavailable For Selection | Thom Smith, Harry Davey, Joe Jones, Maliq Holden

Doncaster Knights are delighted to share that scrum half, Ollie Fox has re-signed for the 25/26 season. 

The Yorkshireman grew up playing rugby league before joining Yorkshire Carnegie rugby union academy at the age of 14. He went go on to make his Championship debut for the club during the 2016/17 season with the Leeds-based club.

Getting the call from Premiership outfit Bath ahead of the 2019/20 season, Ollie went on to make 21 first-team appearances for the top-level side in 3 seasons at the Rec. Alongside this, Ollie’s career honours also include representing England at U19 and U20 level, featuring in both the U20s Six Nations and U20s World Cup.

For the 2022/23 season he joined Ealing Trailfinders, before moving back up to Yorkshire, where he has been ever since. Fox currently sits on 43 caps. 

Consultant DOR Sir Ian McGeechan said: