Doncaster Mustangs 2025 Season Summary: Building Foundations for 2026
A Year of Character, Growth, and Resilience
The 2025 season for the Doncaster Mustangs was defined not by the scoreboard, but by the heart, determination, and character displayed week after week. While results didn't always go our way, the foundation laid this year sets the stage for an exciting 2026 campaign.
Season Results at a Glance
| Date | Opponent | Result | Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| April | @ Wakefield Raiders | L | 20-43 |
| Easter Sunday | @ Gateshead Senators | L | 17-54 |
| May 4th | vs Humber Warhawks | L | 0 - 49 |
| June 22nd | @ Darlington Steam | L | 27-48 |
| July | vs Gateshead Senators | L | 21 - 40 |
| July 20th | vs Wakefield Raiders | L | 10-28 |
| August | vs Darlington Steam | L | 20-28 |
Defining Moments of 2025
Resilience Through Adversity
Throughout the season, the Mustangs consistently faced the challenge of fielding smaller squads. Rather than making excuses, every player stepped up, often playing both offense and defense, demonstrating the true meaning of team commitment.
The Darlington Thriller
The home rematch against Darlington Steam in August epitomised the season—a nail-biting 28-20 contest that came down to the final seconds. The Mustangs proved they can compete with anyone at the highest level.
Offensive Firepower
The offense showed explosive potential, highlighted by 280 rushing yards against Darlington and consistent playmaking from the skill positions. The offensive line earned collective MVP honours for their dominant performance in the trenches.
2025 Standout Performers
🏆 Jordan Nutt – Defensive Anchor
The undisputed defensive leader of 2025, Nutt earned multiple Defensive MVP awards throughout the season. His consistency, physicality, and ability to be around the ball on every play made him invaluable. Whether it was 9 tackles and 2 assists, forced fumbles, or interceptions—Nutt delivered week after week.
🏆 Gary Speedie – Scottish Sensation
Arriving from the Highlands, Speedie made an immediate impact with his debut Overall MVP performance. His nearly 200-yard rushing game against Darlington, playing every single snap, showcased the workhorse mentality the Mustangs needed.
🏆 Scott Smith – Defensive Versatility
Smith's ability to rotate through multiple defensive positions while maintaining his trademark physicality made him a nightmare for opposing offenses. His tactical flexibility became a key weapon in the coaching staff's game plans.
🏆 Matt Dent – Clutch Performer
When called upon as backup quarterback in the season opener, Dent answered with poise—leading two scoring drives and nearly orchestrating an incredible comeback with 119 passing yards and 2 touchdowns.
🏆 Luke Goodwin – Big Play Threat
From a 70-yard kickoff return touchdown against Gateshead to a 50-yard receiving touchdown against Wakefield, Goodwin's ability to create explosive plays across all three phases made him a constant threat.
🏆 Josh Courtney – Fullback Excellence
Courtney's 77-yard, 2-touchdown performance against Gateshead at home demonstrated the power running game the Mustangs can deploy.
Looking Ahead to 2026
Reasons for Optimism:
- ✅ Strong rookie intake – October and November saw excellent turnout at rookie days, with good weather helping build a promising new cohort heading into 2026
- ✅ Proven identity – The team knows who they are: tough, resilient, and united
- ✅ Leadership core – Players like Nutt, Smith, and Chesham provide the veteran leadership to guide newcomers
- ✅ Offensive potential – The ability to put up 27 points on the road shows the firepower exists
- ✅ Character established – The standards set by this year's leaders create the culture for future success
Areas of Focus:
- 🎯 Building squad depth to reduce two-way player fatigue
- 🎯 Defensive consistency across four quarters
- 🎯 Converting close games into victories
Final Word
"The final whistle closes the chapter, not the book—we're already planning for 2026, building on the identity forged this year and the standards set by leaders across the roster."
The 2025 Doncaster Mustangs showed that heart, determination, and team spirit can shine through regardless of results. Every player who wore the jersey with pride, every fan who stayed through the rain at Wheatley Hills, and every supporter who believed in the herd—you are the foundation of what's to come.
The foundation is set. We ride again in 2026. 🐴
The Doncaster Mustangs compete in the BAFA National Leagues. Thank you to our sponsors JPCoding and Rampart Construction. for their continued support.
