Wath Brow boss Ian Rooney is keeping his side grounded – despite going top of the National Conference Leaguer premier division at the weekend.

Victory over neighbours Egremont Rangers – and a defeat for previous league leaders West Hull – combined to put the Hornets in top spot.

But Rooney said there was still a long way to go and some tough fixtures still to be played despite his pleasure at his side’s efforts.

“We’ve still got seven tough games to play,” said Rooney. “But we have to look at the positives.

“Our prime target each year is just to stay in the division, and who is in the top spot now may have no bearing come October time. You really don’t know – it can change so quickly.”

Brow beat Egremont 12-6 to avenge an early-season defeat by their county rivals, while West Hull went down 21-6 at the hands of Hunslet Club Parkside, to hand the Copeland side the opportunity to go top.

And Wath Brow’s A team coach Neil Gregg says the first team’s success is fantastic for the whole of the club.

He added: “Both teams are showing some potential.

“We’ve just got a really good team atmosphere. The camaraderie is great in the squad.”

Praise also came in from elsewhere in the game with Cumberland ARL spokesman Lorraine Degraff saying having teams at the top of their game is a positive sign for the game in the county.

She added: “We’re absolutely delighted for them. It just shows how strong rugby is in Cumbria.”