Newcastle Thunder v North Wales Crusaders 1895 Cup preview

Sunday afternoon sees North Wales Crusaders visit Tyneside in the 1895 Cup. The format is simple, the loser is out the tournament and the winner goes to Goole Vikings in Round 1.

North Wales arrive at Blaydon on the back of a good win in Cornwall in Round 2 of The Challenge Cup last weekend, taking into account a heavy pitch in Penryn and the travel they'll be pleased with a 52-0 victory and a home tie against Widnes in Round 3.

A familiar face to Thunder fans will be Josh Eaves. This North Wales squad will be looking to be in the playoffs at the end of the season and are under an exciting new ownership.

Thunder as we know gave everything against a battle hardened Championship outfit in Batley on Sunday afternoon in difficult conditions eventually losing out 54-0.

Given North Wales played Cornwall last weekend it will give us a bit of an insight as to where we're at. But whilst remembering that the season is still a few weeks away, there are some key injuries and we're not seeing the impact of dual registration agreements with Hunslet and Bradford yet. The last point being key for me in terms of who might come in.

Tyler Walton, Evan Lawther and Harry Lowery are missing this week who will be key players going forward this season. Lawther looked to pick up an injury in the second half which hopefully isn't serious, even so this early in the season it doesn't make sense to risk anyone.

A couple of injuries do open up opportunities for players to impress Chris Thorman. Alex Taylor did this last week putting in a man of the match performance. Others will look to take their chance as they press a claim to be involved in the squad for the Swinton game.

Kick off tomorrow is 15:00 with tickets priced at £5 for under 18's and £15 for adults. If you can buy through the website it means that the volunteers can have a rough idea of how many supporters will be in attendance.

Finally, there will be memberships will be available to buy at the game tomorrow. Showing your commitment to Thunder for the 2025 league season is a great way to support the club. Adult silver membership is £150 with under 18's £50, gold for is £500 and available in a one off payment or six monthly instalments of £84 and a platinum membership limited to 40 is £1000 or £167 per month over six months.

For those attending we'll see you tomorrow afternoon and a safe trip to all those connected with North Wales making the journey up.