Donlan ready for Lionhearts battle

Canada head-coach Stuart Donlan is expecting a difficult battle against the North West Men’s League English Lionhearts in tomorrow night’s test match in Toronto.

Donlan, who took over the role of national team coach just four weeks ago, was in the stands to witness the Lionhearts’ 70-0 victory over Canada A on Wednesday.

The former Salford and Castleford assistant was impressed with the Lionhearts’ showing and highlighted their fitness and physicality in particular.

“It should be a really tough match and it’s one that I’ve been looking forward too since I arrived,” Donlan said.

“From what I saw on Wednesday I was impressed with them, their levels of fitness were outstanding.

“They weren’t as big as I had expected them to be but they were very physical.

“Seeing them play already has given us some food for thought but I wasn’t at the game to scout them as such.

“Some of my boys are just learning the basics of the game and I encouraged them to come and watch so it was mainly about trying to educate them.”

Around 5,000 spectators are expected to attend the clash at Lamport Stadium and Donlan has paid tribute to Canada Rugby League who continue to promote the sport.

“Cory and Eric, the guys who organise everything have both been out and about everyday banging the drum,” he added.

“Over 4,500 people watched the game against the RAF and we’re expecting even more this week.

“It’s a great opportunity for the local lads who play in the domestic competitions to get the opportunity to play in front of a few thousand supporters.

“Hopefully more and more Canadians will keep rolling in but in saying that there’s a few English who have tickets to the game so there may be some support for the Lionhearts too.”