Hood was pleased with his side's resolve in holding off Batley

Gateshead Thunder coach Chris Hood has admitted mixed feelings after their 20-20 draw at Batley Bulldogs in the Championship on Thursday night.

Hood's side led 20-4 after a sparkling first-half display but a last-gasp try for the hosts in a tough second period ensured honours remained even.

"I'm elated and broken-hearted all in one," he told BBC Radio Newcastle.

"That first half we did everything we promised we would do, but in the second the hill is cruel to anyone."

The draw means Thunder still await a win in the Championship, with two defeats and a draw in the first three games.

Meanwhile Hood was full of praise for club captain Neil Thorman, who shone in that first-half display.

The North-East born half-back had a part in two of the three first-half tries and the Thunder coach was delighted by his contribution.

"He was brilliant, but Neil by his own virtues isn't the biggest in size but in heart, effort and desire to do well for his home-town club is huge," he said.

"Some of the efforts out there today were fantastic, he was involved in so many tackles."

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