Whitehaven will face a Doncaster side this weekend, fired up by the appointment of a new coach.

The Dons, currently fifth in Kingstone Press League One but with a game in hand on all those above them, have put their faith in Richard Horne.

After parting company with Gary Thornton in May, Donny have been under the leadership of Pete Green and Horne, the 34-year-old Hull FC stalwart, who has signed a two-year contract with the Dons.

But he will remain involved at Hull where he has coached their reserve grade team since hanging up his boots in 2014.

Doncaster and Hull FC are already dual-registration partner clubs and Horne’s appointment strengthens those links.

Dons chief executive Carl Hall said: “It hasn’t been an easy process but myself and the club really feel we have got our man as Richard ticked all the boxes for us.”

Hull FC’s executive director James Clark said: “Richard has the chance to cut his teeth as a head coach in a competitive league, offering mutual benefits to both clubs.

“Our dual registration partnership with Doncaster provides an alternative to the fledgling reserve grade format and an opportunity for some of our younger players to evolve under Richard’s guidance and in a more challenging environment.”

It suggests that there is going to be a strong Hull link with an increased player content for Horne in his new role at the Keepmoat Stadium.

Doncaster will also be going fresh into the game as they were without a fixture at the weekend.

They will be visiting the Recreation Ground on the back of two good results against Cumbrian opposition.

They won 30-26 with a last-minute score at Workington Town and then drew 24-24 at home to Barrow.