Newcastle Thunder v Workington preview and the rest of League 1

After a big build up, Magic Friday is finally here!

Friday night sees Workington Town visiting Newcastle for the highlight of Thunder's season. Workington will be backed by over one hundred fans making the trip over and will be more than welcome amongst the fans from other clubs in attendance.

Workington arrive in a roll on the back of wins over Whitehaven and last weekend over Swinton. They have some hardened campaigners in the likes of Jamie Doran and Steve Scholey. Jonty Gorley will have his side well drilled and up for the occasion on Friday night.

Thunder have named their squad without key men Tyler Walton who is hopefully being eased back after a long lay off, Evan Lawther and Harry Lowery. For a lot of this young squad it'll be an exciting occasion to play in front of a bigger crowd.

As I said last week there was positives from the Goole game, Thunder looked a bit more dangerous in attack and were secure under the high ball. I expect Workington to have some big runners which will take a big defensive shift as we saw at times last week.

It's a 19:30 kick off but arrive early to get into the ground and if you want a seat definitely do. It will also mean the volunteers have more time rather than a rush just before kick off.

For the fans of other clubs attending, hopefully you enjoy your evening and thank you for your support, it's appreciated. Get behind Thunder's young group and then spread the word of rugby league when you're in Newcastle!

Tickets are available tomorrow but as I've said get down early!

The rest of League 1

Saturday sees Rochdale take on Goole. Goole will be full of confidence after away wins at Keighley and Newcastle. But Rochdale had a good win at Dewsbury last weekend and I expect them to come out on top here.

Swinton will be keen to bounce back from defeat at Workington with North Wales the visitors. But North Wales themselves are on a good run of form and I don't see that stopping on Sunday afternoon.

Finally, Whitehaven host Dewsbury in what could be a really close game. But I think home advantage is key here and Whitehaven will take a tight victory.