Ashton Bears' Head Coach Neil Ireland Reflects on a Season of Resilience and Growth
Neil Ireland, the head coach of Ashton Bears, is no stranger to the demands of rugby league. But the recent quick turnaround between games, playing two matches in just 42 hours, was a unique challenge even for him.
"I don't think we've ever had to do that, at any level," Ireland admitted after his side's 24-46 victory over Clock Face Miners. This game followed a bruising encounter with league leaders Orrell St James just a day earlier.
Despite the physical toll, Ireland's team showed remarkable resilience. They absorbed pressure, fell behind, and then unleashed a devastating run of tries, showcasing their ability to adapt and perform under pressure.
"When they scored and went 18-16 in front, heads could have dropped, but they stuck to the game plan," Ireland praised. "And they showed what we can do on a pitch like that. We're a young, fit team with pace. We played how we wanted to play and then went back-to-back with numerous tries, a fantastic 15-minute spell."
This performance highlighted the Bears' recent growth and development. Ireland attributes this to a settled spine, with centres and wingers finding their rhythm and pace. The return of Connor Ashley to the second row on the left edge has been a key factor, along with the pace and skill of Conor, Matty Ward, and Danny Hill.
At the heart of it all is the veteran Tom Hopkins, who continues to guide the team with his calm influence. Despite turning 35, Hopkins is playing some of his best rugby, showing no signs of slowing down.
Ireland's reflections on the season are insightful. The Bears didn't start perfectly, but they've built something meaningful. They won at Ince Rose Bridge, had a close call at home against Leigh East, and then climbed steadily, winning against Blackbrook, Saddleworth, and Crosfields. The performance against Orrell and the recent victory over Clock Face Miners further solidified their progress.
"We’re finding our feet…since that mid-part of the season, we’ve just gone from strength to strength," Ireland noted. "Hopefully, it’s a good indicator for next year and the years to come that we’re going to be someone that people don’t want to play against because of the pace that we play."
However, Ireland remains grounded, emphasizing the importance of basics. He believes the Bears are developing a clear identity, fast, youthful, and increasingly confident, but success depends on consistent execution.
One of the club's strengths is the steady flow of young players stepping into the open age. The influx of lads from the under-18s over the last three years is paying dividends, with teams playing at every age. Competition for places is fierce, and Ireland welcomes this, as it fosters a hunger for success.
"I don’t want excuses being made why they can’t play. I want people calling me names, telling me I should be picked… that’s showing enthusiasm and the right attitude to want to pull the shirt on for Ashton," Ireland stated.
As the season progresses, Ireland's leadership and the team's resilience will be crucial in shaping Ashton Bears' future. With a clear identity and a steady flow of young talent, the Bears are poised to make a lasting impact in the rugby league world.
