Preston Grasshoppers return to Lightfoot Green Lane this Saturday (18th April) to face Hull Ionians, buoyed by the knowledge that their National League 2 North status has already been secured following last weekend’s vital victory.

Hoppers produced a composed and determined performance to win 25–19 away at Rossendale, a result that confirmed their place in the division for next season and capped a strong run of results in recent weeks. That victory continued an upturn in form which has seen Preston pick up impressive wins over Darlington Mowden Park, Otley and Sheffield Tigers, showing both attacking quality and resilience at a crucial stage of the campaign.

In the league table, Preston now sit 9th with 55 points, clear of the relegation battle and with the opportunity to push further up the standings in the final fixtures. With pressure eased, Hoppers can approach Saturday’s game with confidence and freedom, looking to build momentum heading into the final weeks of the season.

Hull Ionians, meanwhile, arrive as one of the division’s stronger sides. They currently sit 4th in the table with 87 points, underlining the consistency they have shown throughout the campaign. Recent results highlight their quality, including victories over Billingham (33–26) and Darlington Mowden Park (31–19), although they have also shown vulnerability with defeats to Wharfedale (31–29) and Rossendale (38–29).

The reverse fixture earlier in the season saw Hull Ionians run out 41–7 winners at Brantingham Park, a result that will provide added motivation for Hoppers this weekend. Preston will be keen to show the progress they have made since that December meeting, particularly given their improved attacking cohesion and confidence in recent weeks.

With their league status secured, Hoppers can now focus on finishing the season strongly. Against a high-quality Hull Ionians side, Saturday’s fixture provides another opportunity to test themselves against top-end opposition — and, with home support behind them, there is every reason to believe they can continue their recent momentum.

Match Programme

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