Hammond will start at blindside flanker on Sunday

Nottingham captain Craig Hammond says their fine second-half display against Exeter has given them confidence ahead of their National Trophy semi-final.

Nottingham meet Leeds on Sunday for a place in the final, after losing 15-14 to Exeter at Meadow Lane last weekend.

"After being 15-0 down at half-time we totally outplayed them in the second half," said Hammond.

"The way we finished the game fills us with confidence. We are really looking forward to Sunday's game now."

He added: "We are just 80 minutes from what would be the first Twickenham final in the club's 132-year history and we are determined to make that happen.

"Leeds have had a poor month but they are a well-drilled side and we will be working hard in training this week to cut out the small errors that hurt us against Exeter.

"We want this game really badly and the whole club is excited already."

Reaching the final could really put Nottingham on the map in rugby terms Nottingham Rugby commercial manager Rob Harding

Commercial manager Rob Harding is confident they will easily surpass their best attendance since moving to Notts County's home in 2006, of 4,751.

"Tickets sales have been brilliant - way in excess of where they would normally be at this stage," said Harding.

"Everywhere we turn, people are asking about the semi-final and a possible trip to Twickenham and we're hoping the whole of Nottingham will get behind the team this weekend and make that a reality.

"I cannot remember the last time a Nottingham game attracted so much media attention and the message is getting through to the sporting public of the city that Sunday's game is huge.

"It could really put Nottingham on the map in rugby terms. If people turn out in force and support the team, it could well tilt the balance.

"This time next week, we could be making plans for a trip to Twickenham."

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