Thunder centre Dylan Nash was a key figure in the win against Doncaster

Gateshead Thunder head coach Chris Hood believes the club must look at the positives in their Challenge Cup fifth- round draw with Oldham.

Thunder missed out on a lucrative Super League tie but Hood says Oldham will pose a test and his side have a good chance of progress to the last eight.

"There could have been worse draws," he told BBC Radio Newcastle.

"It would have been nice to get a Super League team, but we're the only all-Championship tie."

Progress was secured following Sunday's 32-18 defeat of Championship rivals Doncaster at the Keepmoat Stadium.

Hood's early season ambitions were to establish themselves in the Championship, after gaining promotion in thrilling fashion last season, with little thought other than extra income for the cup competitions.

However, the former Thunder player admits the club's success in the Challenge Cup has caused him to rethink.

"It's great to get that glamour, and that big match environment and the longer you stay in the cup then the more chances you get.

"I'm over the moon for the lads who get anther chance to win and put on a show.

"It was a distraction at the start, but now that we're in I want us to do well and get a good draw in the next round."

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