Wins are the big draw for Thunder

Jun 7 2008 by Mark Douglas, The Journal

GATESHEAD Thunder head coach Dave Woods believes his side’s continued success will finally help to increase crowds at the International Stadium.

Thunder are four points clear at the top of National League Two after beating Oldham Roughyeds on Wednesday in front of a season-high 444 fans, and are bidding to extend that advantage against promotion rivals Keighley tomorrow afternoon.

Another home game gives Thunder a chance to build on what has been a fine season so far – and also the chance to break the 450 attendance figure for the first time this campaign.

The problem with low crowds at the Thunderdome has been a constant source of frustration for every administration at the club since the end of the Super League days. But Woods reckons floating supporters will be tempted to turn out and watch his side’s attractive brand of rugby – an attacking philosophy that has seen Thunder rack up 166 points in their last four games.

“We’re hoping a few more people will turn out this Sunday to watch the Keighley game,” he said. “The crowds have been increasing every game and we just need to keep it going now and keep on winning because whatever anyone says that is the best way of bringing more people into the stadium. We’ve had some great support but obviously we want more people to come, and we know that wins and success will attract people.

“We play rugby that I believe is attractive to watch. We’re scoring plenty of tries and plenty of points and it usually makes for a pretty good watch.”

Despite Thunder building up a significant lead over their rivals, Keighley remain very much in the promotion frame, just five points behind Woods’ side. And the Thunder head coach is once again bracing his side for another tough encounter.

“It’s a tough one for us, Keighley are a good side,” said Woods. “They are missing one or two players through injury but you can be sure they will put out a strong team and the boys that they bring in for their injured guys will want to prove themselves too.”

Thunder turned in a fine display to beat Oldham on Wednesday, with the recalled Stuart Sanderson scoring twice in a 32-18 win. After a slow start Woods was delighted with the way his side turned up the heat to record their sixth successive win.

“It was very good win for us. The second half performance in particular was really good after we started a little bit ragged,” he said. “I was pleased for Stu Sanderson – he grabbed his tries really well and it topped off a good performance from him.”