Thunder to forgive Woods for bye remark

Gateshead Thunder and Thunder fans intend to show BBC’s Dave Woods that there are no hard feelings over the commentator’s “bye” remark at this Thursday’s fan club event.

BBC TV commentator Dave Woods managed to incur the wrath of both Gateshead Thunder club officials and fans alike when he described St Helens‘ Quarter Final draw away against Thunder as a “bye” on national television. Dave however was quick to apologise in person on the Thunder fans’ online forum and to Thunder officials. Dave wanted to show his support for rugby league in the North East by agreeing to attend a Thunder fans’ event.

Supporters’ Association ‘Thunder Storm’ are pleased to announce that Dave will be attending a “Question & Answer” session at The Schooner Inn on South Shore Road, Gateshead (just north of the stadium) at 8pm this Thursday 30th July. The evening is free and all Thunder fans are welcome to attend. Dave will be there to talk about any and all aspects of rugby league and its coverage by the BBC.

Also attending will be Thunder Chief Executive, Rod Findlay, and Thunder Head Coach, Steve McCormack, who will be happy to answer any questions about the club or the media.

Commenting on Dave Woods’ attendance, Findlay stated:

“The BBC’s Dave Woods and I spoke at length after his “bye” comment and after I had made my displeasure known. It was clear that Dave didn’t mean any offence and that it was an unfortunate slip when Dave was assessing Thunder’s chances of overcoming the current Challenge Cup holders. These things happen on live TV.

Obviously, the form book was proved right and St Helens went on to beat Thunder. However, it was in front a post Super League record crowd for Thunder so the controversy did no harm in that respect. Thunder won a lot of new fans that day and our crowds have grown by about 50% over last season.

I am interested to hear Dave’s views on rugby league and the BBC, which is a proud supporter of the sport over many years, and I am sure that most fans will be keen to take up this rare opportunity.”