Already better than last season

When pre-season started, Pearce hoped his side could improve on last season and with five games left to play, they have achieved that.
They are nine points better off than their 68 points thanks to their 42-22 win at home to Cleakheaton on Saturday. That win took them to 16, one more win than they accumulated last season to Pearce’s delight.
“In pre-season, our goal was to finish as high as we possibly could,” Pearce said.
“Last year we finished eighth which forced us to change the way we approached games.
“Injuries early in the season made life difficult for us and we were guilty of making too many unforced errors.
“We started to get players back in November which has made the squad a lot stronger.
“I expected us to be where we are in the table now especially with the run we have been on where we have lost just once in our last nine games.
“From day one, I wanted us to finish in the top four and if it hadn’t been for the early season injuries, we’d have been a lot closer to the leaders.
“We let seven or eight points go begging and that shows the fine margins in this competition.
“Consistency is a big factor and we have learned that by sticking to the game plan and buy into the system and not be individuals, the rewards will come.”