Championship club follows up arrival of Hull KR duo with another signing

Returning for a second spell at the club, Newcastle Thunder have announced the signing of Evan Lawther on a one-year deal.

This comes after the club had signed Hull KR duo Connor Moore and Daniel Okoro and the arrival of England superstar Dom Young’s brother Alex.

A product of local grassroots side Gateshead Storm, Lawther had previously been a part of Thunder’s academy and was even promoted into first team fold back in November 2021.

Returning to the club, Lawther joins up with the first team under Chris Thorman after impressing during his time at university, becoming a regular in the first team at Northumbria.

His performances also resulted in the outside back being selected for the North East v North West Universities fixture earlier this month.

Meeting up with the squad earlier this week, Lawther said on his decision to join the ranks at Thunder once again: “It’s great to be back at Kingston Park and training with Thunder.

“I’ve only just joined up with the lads earlier this week but it’s been good to get stuck in, and I’m looking forward to the season ahead.

“I’ve been really enjoying my rugby recently, especially with Northumbria University. It’s been great playing regularly and I’m looking forward to taking that step up with Thunder.

“Growing up in the area and being a local lad, I’ve always had a strong affinity with Thunder, so it’s a proud moment for me to be back in the fold.”

Newcastle Thunder head coach Chris Thorman said: “We’re really happy to have Evan in the squad and I’m looking forward to getting started with him.

“I’ve watched a few of his university games with Northumbria and it’s clear to see he’s one of the most physically capable outside backs in the area.

“He’s a big human, that’s very powerful, quick and explosive. He’s also got some decent core skills, so we can expect some good things from Evan at Thunder.

“He’s a young local lad from Gateshead, and although that alone isn’t sufficient, if you couple that with his ability, potential and talent, he’ll go far with this Thunder side.”