NEWCASTLE Thunder back-row Conor Fitzsimmons says his side will need to show calmer heads this weekend, if they are to shock York City Knights in round two of the 1895 Cup.

The Tynesiders were on the wrong end of a 32-18 scoreline in League One last Sunday as Hunslet brought a four-game unbeaten run to an end, with Fitzsimmons identifying a lack of composure in the Thunder ranks as one of the factors.

It left them fifth in the table with four wins and four losses from nine league outings.

“We made lots of mistakes in the game," said Fitzsimmons. "We came out direct against Keighley and it worked, but against Hunslet it didn’t and with them fronting up well, we panicked and that’s where the errors started to form and arguably that’s why we lost the game.

“It’s a tough one to take but we have a game this weekend to react differently and fix the problems and go again.”

Home team York are enjoying an outstanding season following promotion last year, currently sitting third in the Betfred Championship.

But with a trip to Wembley for the final on offer, Fitzsimmons says tomorrow's game is one Thunder want to win.

“We aren’t just focusing on our performances in the league, we are also focusing on the cup as well," he insisted.

"It will be a tough encounter, but we want to bounce back this week and correct our wrongs and look to get a win.

“York will be a very physical side as they have shown in their Championship campaign so far this season.

"Everyone knows how hard that league is and how it is a very tough league to be a part of meaning for us we will have to try and step up our game for this occasion and match them.

“We’re eager for success this season and the indicators that have been set by the coaches are clear and it is easy to see what is expected.

“The overall ambition and aim for the season though is something we, as players, don’t focus on. We concentrate on a week by week basis and we just need to make sure we win each game as they come.”