Tom Ashton on Whitehaven test and Superhero Day

Rochdale Hornets outside back Tom Ashton says each of their remaining fixtures must be taken on its own merit as the club looks to maintain its push for the top four.

This Sunday sees Whitehaven visit the Crown Oil Arena as preparations continue for the Hornets' second annual Superhero Day.

It promises to be an action-packed celebration for the whole community to enjoy, with tickets priced at just £10 for adults and free for Under 16s. 

Ashton has urged his team-mates to make sure they do their job on the pitch and play their part in the day's festivities. 

He said: "We are a confident team that likes to play heads-up rugby, but at the moment we're trying to stay a level-headed team as well.

"We were in this position at the start of the season where we were riding high after a couple of good wins, but also off the back of that we've had some close defeats and disappointing results.

"The key message has always been to avoid over-confidence and beat what's in front of us.

"GT [Gary Thornton] are Andy Mazey are 100% correct in the sense that we have no room for error at the moment. 

"We're taking each challenge on its own merit. Our mentality in training is 100% there, and people are turning up for each other and putting in the extra effort before games.

"It's starting to show again on the field too. If we keep doing what we're doing, we can be a real threat. 

"In my eyes, we have some of the most talented players at this level in terms of speed and ability, who could push for top-end Championship. It's all about keeping our heads down and grinding out those results."

Last year, more than 850 attended the inaugural Superhero Day fixture against Cornwall - a fixture which the club hopes to surpass in 2025, with a four-figure crowd expected.

The Smiths Metal Family Stand will also be operational for the fixture - the first time it has been open for a Hornets fixture since 2019.

Ashton, who has scored three tries in his last three games and been a pivotal player in recent weeks, says Superhero Day demonstrates everything which Rochdale Hornets should strive to be.

He added: "Superhero Day outlines what the club is about, and how it brings everyone from the wider rugby community together.

"It's a fun-filled day where local families and friends can come along for more than just a game of rugby.

"It's a celebration for the community and helps us give something back to them. 

"I hope that people come out in their numbers and help us in our pursuit of a top-four spot as we try to keep this momentum going."