Sheffield Eagles aim to build on three-game winning run

His side produced a stunning second half performance last weekend to overrun a Whitehaven side, who were in front at the interval.

Stern words were exchanged in the dressing room during the break, but they had the desired impact.

Aston is still looking for more as he looks for a strong end to their Championship campaign. “The blood pressure was boiling at half-time,” Aston said. “It is always a tough one, at times you open them up, it becomes easy and then you get disrespectful. I thought that the first set typified the first half, we got ourselves into a position to execute the game plan and we went away from it.

“From minute one to 40 we were disrespectful - getting what we deserved. We said a few words and came out in the second half with more purpose, a lot more discipline and defensively got through 40 minutes without conceding.”

Eagles have now won three games on the bounce for the first time this season and have put themselves in a position where silverware is a possibility. If they are to lift the Championship Shield, Aston says they need to raise their game to the next level as he calls on his side to string a consistent high standard of performance for the full 80 minutes.

“We have certainly got to be better,” he continued.

“I have talked about standards before the game. We wanted to raise the bar after the Halifax result and we didn’t. I asked them to play for longer than the 40 minutes last week but I think we got something similar. If we are going to be successful in this Shield we have to build up to play for 80 minutes.

“There were some positives for us. Minchella, Wheeldon and Chappell all did well. There are certain players who are doing well, but I am still seeking that 80 minute performance.”