But a reminder that things could have been a lot worse comes with Dewsbury Rams who are heading back to National League Two after their visit to Don Valley, kick-off 8pm.

That's a measure of the Eagles progress with the sides sharing promotion two years ago.

The Eagles have survived a testing second season in National One but they missed out on a place in the play-offs.

After spending much of the first half in the top six the side has faltered and slipped out of the play-off places in the past four games.

Coach Mark Aston said: "It's tough and it's not been a successful year in those terms but we have scored more points and got more wins than we had last season – that shows that the standard of the competition has increased.

"There's disappointment that we have not had the bit of consistency we needed."

A fall-off in form of a few senior players – some who won't be in an Eagles shirt next season – was a big factor.

Aston is planning changes to the squad for next season with some players getting a last chance to seal a contract offer in the game against Dewsbury.

Aston said: "You are only as good as your squad and some players have not hit their straps.

"We have given them an opportunity but they have let us down and have walked away.

"We will pick a team that wins for the Dewsbury game. Some will be in there as a reward for a good season – some might be in because we want to have a look at them. Some because we're not sure yet that they will be here next season."

Certain to be there next season is prop Mitch Stringer whose 12 tries has made him one of the most effective 'impact' forwards in the division.

He'll been joined by club captain Jack Howieson in signing a new deal but Aston faces a battle to keep some of the club's exciting backs.

Centre James Ford is said to be a target for a Super League club – prompting Aston to report an agent to the Rugby League for an approach before the September 1 deadline.

Some of the National League big spending clubs having been showing an interest in Danny Mills – the club's top try scorer with 14 – and his wing partner Rob Worrincy and goal-kicking fullback Jonny Woodcock.



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