Whitehaven conceded a half century of points for the second week in succession, but the scoreline at Newcastle didn’t tell the full story.
The West Cumbrians had travelled with the bare 17, and several of those weren’t fully fit as they carried niggles and recent knocks.
So under the circumstances, against a side who are full-time and much changed from the no-hopers of the last few seasons, it was another brave effort.
Coach James Newton sang the praises of his squad afterwards, insisting the scoreline didn’t do justice to the efforts put in by his players.
It was 42-0 before Whitehaven registered their score with young ex-Seaton hooker Williamson going over for his first try in the pro ranks which was goaled by Cieran Walker.
It didn’t help that the game was played in sweltering heat and Whitehaven’s depleted squad was stretched to the limit by the conditions.
Newcastle had led 26-0 at half-time so it was damage limitation somewhat after that but Thunder showed their class with four of their 10 tries coming from good finishes after pinpoint kicks.
Former Workington loanee Andy Djeukessie crossed twice, as did Myles Harrison while the others were scored by Jack Smith, Taylor Pemberton, Justin Sangare, Brenden Senti, John Sagaga and Jude Ferreira. Harrison kicked five goals.
