ASKAM booked home advantage the National Conference League League Division Two play-offs with a 48-28 victory over bottom side Leigh East, writes Paddy McAteer.

The Villagers had gone in at half time holding a 40-6 lead, but Leigh defied their status as strugglers with a gallant fightback after the break.

However, they could not overhaul the deficit and Askam did enough to ensure they will return to Fallowfield Park this Saturday for the promotion semi-finals.

Tries for the home side came from Zac Steel, Russ Bolton and Dan Rhodes scoring two apiece.

Tom Wilkinson and Adam Jackson got single scores too, with Jackson kicking seven goals as well.

Dave Clark’s side take on Wigan St Judes in the semi final as they bid to gain promotion to Division One.

In the North West Mens League Division Two play-offs, Ulverston reached the final following their third win of the year over Manchester Rangers.

Division Two champions Ulverston triumphed 32-16, with Liam Whinfield and Connor Saunders, who added four goals as well, scoring two tries apiece.

Marc Storey and Dan Crabtree both crossed for single scores as well.

Ulverston’s opponents in the final will be Wigan St Cuthberts, who were 24-0 winners at Oldham St Annes and have lost twice to Phil Atkinson’s side this year.