INTERVIEW | Richard Horne reacts to Dons winning start

Doncaster RLFC coach Richard Horne lauded his side's attitude and defensive prowess as the Dons defeated York Knights 36-20 on Sunday afternoon in the league opener at the Eco-Power Stadium.

Braces from Pauli Pauli and Tom Halliday, plus tries from Ben Johnston and Sam Smeaton, capped off a brilliant return to the Championship for the Dons. However, Horne now knows the Dons have proven they can battle with the bigger teams in the competition but insists there's plenty of work still to be done as they move forward. 

Speaking after picking up the two points, the Dons boss was riding an emotional rollercoaster throughout the contest but was a happy man after seeing his team get over the line in round one. 

"I'm very happy," said Horne. "I was nervous at times; we had a 12-0 lead and was good for it, but let York come back in with back-to-back errors and gave them opportunities to post points. But we started really strong in the second half and finished the game. 

"Our errors hurt us in plays 1 and 2, but credit to our defence; they worked hard for each other, and that's all we ask from the boys. We want teams to work so hard to post points on us.

"It's a tough divison, we know that. If you aren't clinical, you'll get punished. We did well today but inivted them into our half at times which was nervy. But, we managed to take the pressure off us, and I want us to keep playing even when we're up on the scoreboard."

Praising two of his substitutes, Pauli Pauli and Tyla Help, Horne believed the pair made a big difference when entering the field and took time out of his post-match press duties to hail the duo. 

"They got brought into our side to do those types of performences. Tyla Hepi and Pauli Pauli are very experienced in this divison and Super League. We used them well today.

"We keep building; it wasn't perfect. But we will try to improve against Sheffield next time out, who are a quality outfit. Coming out of yardage, we will have to be better."

To watch the full interview click on the video above.