Gateshead Thunder had not claimed victory in 47 games

Fans of Gateshead Thunder watched as the rugby league team stormed to victory over Workington Town 42-12 in the Arriva Trains National Cup on Sunday.

Thunder last won in May 2001 but this win brought to an end the 39 game losing streak and was their first win in 47 games.

Gateshead coach Paul Fletcher admitted after the game a win had been "a long time coming".

Ironically, Thunder still did not win at home as they were playing at Gateshead RUFC ground because the International Stadium was unavailable.

They ran in seven tries and added seven goals on their way to a rare cup success with a dominating performance from start to finish.

Gateshead in control

In-form centre Damian Reed led the way with a hat-trick while winger Richie Barnett scored twice.

Hooker Chris Fletcher and Australian Scott MacDougall grabbed Thunder's other two tries with the Thorman brothers, Paul and Neil, sharing seven goals.

Fletcher crashed over in the third minute and prop Steven Bradley was involved when wing Barnett touched down.

Workington managed to reply but a determined home side went into the interval with an 18-6 lead.

Barnett then grabbed his second try before Reed and MacDougall put the game out of reach despite a consolation try from the visitors.

The Tynesiders' last win before this two years ago saw the then teenage centre, Reed, lead the way with a superb hat-trick that made it nine tries in five games.