Aston relishes Powell reunion as Sheffield Eagles march on

The Eagles became the first club from outside the top two to reach the Grand Final and will take on Featherstone on Sunday week in their maiden appearance in the final.

And although Sheffield were big underdogs, Aston believes the victory was nothing more than they deserved.

“Last night we were outstanding,” said Aston.

“I am a big believer of what you put into life you get back, we have put a lot of effort in the last few weeks against some good teams, and I’m delighted with the boys.”

Sheffield went into half-time with a surprise 8-0 lead thanks to substitute Sam Scott’s first try for the club and two goals from Simon Brown.

After the break, Leigh captain Stuart Donlan pulled a try back early and Mick Nanyn’s goal cut the deficit to two points.

But Aston’s side then took total control after tries from Vinnie Finnigan and Quentin Laulu-Togagau.

Nanyn then grabbed another late try for Leigh but it was too little, too late as Sheffield marched through to the final at Warrington.

And Aston was fulsome in his praise of his side’s mental fortitude.

He said: “Last night’s performance showed our mental strength as we were clear underdogs. But we have been consistent in these past three or four weeks and our mental strength was a particular highlight last night.”

Victory for Sheffield means that Aston will be reunited with old friend Daryl Powell, but his attention will be firmly on the job at hand.

“Me and Daryl are close friends, and have been since our early days doing community work for Sheffield Eagles,” he explained.

“There is a special bond between us, but I’m just focused on the game and my team as I’m sure Daryl is.

“Before the game we will have a chat and reminisce about the old times, and have a drink after the game. But my focus will be on this group, a new generation of players hoping for success.

“Featherstone are an outstanding side, they’ve been up there all year along with Leigh. If we can believe, both as individuals and collectively then we can achieve anything.

“Featherstone will be tough, like the last few weeks have been. But our lads are a great bunch who hunt success and deserve to be on the big stage.”

Thursday’s win will also be an added boost to Sheffield’s hopes of playing in Super League in the next few years.

Aston, whose side have been playing their home games at Sheffield United’s Bramall Lane, said: “The club is now making fantastic progress on the pitch and with the academy and scholarships.

“We are in playing in a fantastic venue in Bramall Lane, which for me is the best rugby stadium there is.

“This also ticks another box for Sheffield in Super League, and hopefully we can now but bums on seats.”

There was a flip-side to last night’s Yorkshire success story in that defeat for Leigh signalled retirement for New Zealander Robbie Hunter-Paul, who has enjoyed a distinguished career in British rugby league since joining Bradford in 1994.

The result also brought to an end Ian Millward’s third stint as coach of the Centurions as he prepares to take over at Super League club Castleford.