Ashton Bears’ evolution in the North West division is becoming one of the most compelling stories of the National Leagues season. Their upcoming clash with Leigh East arrives at a moment when the club is not only finding its feet but beginning to show the hallmarks of a side capable of thriving at this level. Coach Neil Ireland’s reflections after their recent victory over Ince Rose Bridge reveal a team growing in maturity, confidence and identity.
Ireland has been clear about the Bears’ biggest asset: their youth. “We’re a very young team… but something we’ve always prided ourselves on is our fitness,” he said, emphasising the relentless energy that has become Ashton’s trademark. That fitness was on full display during their latest second?half surge, where they overwhelmed their opponents with pace, aggression and defensive hunger. Yet youth alone isn’t carrying them. Ireland highlighted the importance of senior figures like Tom Hopkins and Jordan Green, noting that “having those older heads… is absolutely invaluable to us” as they guide the younger players through the intensity of Regional Conference rugby.
Their growth has also been forged through adversity. Having lost several older heads at the start of the season, the younger players have come together. Narrow defeats to Saddleworth and Clock Face could easily have swung the other way, and Ireland was quick to point out that “we could be sitting on eight points now.” However, instead of dwelling on missed opportunities, the Bears have used those moments as fuel. The turning point in their recent win came late in the first half, when they were under pressure but refused to break. “We numbered up in defence… going in at 12–6 instead of 18–6 set the platform,” Ireland explained. What followed was a blistering spell: “We came out all guns blazing… three tries in 15 minutes.”
Players like Ronny Broderick embody Ashton’s spirit. Ireland described him as “pocket dynamite… quick off the mark,” praising both his solo try and his defensive work. But beyond individuals, the club’s unity stands out. “Their support is invaluable to us week in, week out,” he said of the fans, while describing the squad as “a very, very strong group… it’s a privilege to coach them.”
Ireland also spoke candidly about the step up in standard. “It’s a big step up… but it’s what we needed,” he said, acknowledging the loss of several experienced players before the season and the uncertainty that came with entering the league. Yet the Bears have responded with plenty of resilience, surprising many. “I think we’ve surprised people already,” he added, noting that some expected Ashton to struggle at the foot of the table.
Their game against Leigh East adds depth to a packed weekend across the National Leagues. In the Premier Division, leaders West Hull and Hunslet ARLFC look to maintain their dominance, while Waterhead Warriors and Siddal meet in what could prove a pivotal play-off contest. Division One’s title race remains tight, with Kells and Dewsbury Celtic both facing tricky assignments. While in Cumbria, Dalton defend their perfect record at Distington; in Yorkshire A and B, unbeaten leaders Moldgreen and Skirlaugh face stern tests; and in the South, Hammersmith Hill Hoists aim to stay top.
Fixtures – 16th May 2026
Premier Division
Wigan St Judes v Wath Brow Hornets, 02:00 PM
Heworth v Hunslet ARLFC, 02:30 PM
Lock Lane v Rochdale Mayfield, 02:30 PM
Thatto Heath Crusaders v West Bowling, 02:30 PM
Waterhead Warriors v Siddal, 02:30 PM
York Acorn v West Hull, 02:30 PM
Division One
Dewsbury Celtic v Oulton Raiders, 02:30 PM
East Leeds v Dewsbury Moor Maroons, 02:30 PM
Egremont Rangers v Wigan St Patricks, 02:30 PM
Leigh Miners Rangers v Stanningley, 02:30 PM
Pilkington Recs v Oldham St Annes, 02:30 PM
Shaw Cross Sharks v Kells, 02:30 PM
National Conference – Cumbria
Ulverston v Barrow Island, 02:00 PM
Ellenborough v Millom, 02:30 PM
Hindpool Tigers v Maryport, 02:30 PM
Seaton Rangers v Hensingham, 02:30 PM
Distington v Dalton, 03:00 PM
National Conference – North West
Ashton Bears v Leigh East, 02:30 PM
Blackbrook v Crosfields, 02:30 PM
Clock Face Miners v Ince Rose Bridge, 02:30 PM
Saddleworth Rangers v Orrell St James, 02:30 PM
Woolston Rovers – BYE
National Conference – Yorkshire A
Beverley v Bradford Dudley Hill, 02:30 PM
Drighlington v Myton Warriors, 02:30 PM
Mirfield Spartans v Keighley Albion, 02:30 PM
Stanley Rangers v King Cross Park, 02:30 PM
Thornhill Trojans v Moldgreen, 02:30 PM
National Conference – Yorkshire B
Bentley v Fryston Warriors, 02:30 PM
Hull Dockers v Normanton Knights, 02:30 PM
Milford v Featherstone Lions, 02:30 PM
Siddal Academy v Newsome Panthers, 02:30 PM
Skirlaugh v Kippax Welfare, 02:30 PM
National Conference – South
Eastern Rhinos v Bedford Tigers, 02:30 PM
Hammersmith Hill Hoists v Bristol All Golds, 02:30 PM
North Herts Crusaders v London Chargers, 02:30 PM
Wests Warriors v Brentwood Eels, 02:30 P
