Preston Grasshoppers bring the curtain down on their 2025/26 National League 2 North season with a trip to Billingham this Saturday (25th April), looking to finish the campaign on a high after securing their league status in recent weeks.

Hoppers arrive in positive form, continuing their strong end to the season with an impressive home victory over Hull Ionians last weekend, adding to the momentum built from their crucial win over Rossendale which confirmed their safety. Those results follow an excellent run that has also included victories over Darlington Mowden Park, Otley and Sheffield Tigers, highlighting the progress made by the squad in the second half of the campaign. With confidence high, Preston will be aiming to sign off with another strong performance.

Billingham, meanwhile, have endured a challenging season and head into the final weekend in the lower reaches of the table. Their recent results have been mixed, including a 31–17 win over Scunthorpe but also heavy defeats such as 62–19 against Tynedale and 52–7 against Sheffield, highlighting the inconsistency that has affected their season. Despite that, they have shown they are capable of competing, particularly at home, and will be determined to finish their season on a positive note in front of their own supporters.

In terms of the league table, Preston sit comfortably clear of the relegation places following their recent run, while Billingham remain towards the bottom end and will be keen to avoid finishing in the lowest positions. With relegation and play-off implications largely settled, this fixture offers both sides an opportunity to play with freedom and express themselves in the final round.

The reverse fixture earlier in the season saw Preston Grasshoppers record a 46–24 victory at Lightfoot Green Lane, a performance that showcased their attacking quality and ability to take control of the game. That result will provide confidence heading into Saturday’s encounter, although Hoppers will be aware that Billingham pose a different challenge on their own patch.

As the season reaches its conclusion, Hoppers will be aiming to carry their recent momentum into one final performance. A win at Billingham would not only round off the campaign in style but also underline the progress made during the closing weeks of the season.