The new-style Cumbria Men’s League is set to start at the weekend, as it replaces the long-established Cumberland Amateur Rugby League.
There’s an open look to it, too, with last season’s top two sides Maryport and Seaton Rangers now contesting the Cumbria Regional Conference.
Several of the Men’s League teams have been putting final touches to their preparation, with Aspatria Hornets particularly pleased after their final display.
They travelled to Harrogate Hawks and came away with a 42-26 victory which gives them momentum ahead of their first game on Saturday in Division One at home to Dalton A.
The Hornets had opened up a handy lead but the Hawks pulled back late in the first half and only trailed 18-16 at the break.
But the Hornets stepped up a gear, scoring four second half tries and were nicely clear in the end.
Two of the Wigton Colts rugby union side, who made the North team this season, were prominent with Ellis Holliday scoring two tries and earning the man of the match accolade while Flynn Manihera kicked six conversions.
Fraser Williamson (2), Keanan Foster, Kristian and Jack Wilson scored the other Aspatria tries.
Aspatria were once again able to field two dad and lad duos.
Flynn was joined on his debut by his father Tane while Craig Hamilton dusted off the boots to share the field with his son Marcus for the first time.
Flimby Vikings hosted Lowca in their final work-outs and they were playing for the Craig Underwood Memorial Trophy.
It was a good hard game, which will have done both good, but Lowca finished as 44-22 winners.
