MARTIN Poste has saluted Northwich’s promotion-winners, but will urge them not to settle for what they’ve achieved when they turn their attention to next season.

The director of rugby, after agreeing a deal to stay at Moss Farm for at least the next two years, wants his players to have no regrets as they prepare for life at a higher level.

The North One West fixtures have been published, sending Blacks to Vale of Lune on the opening day.

“We’re excited to play sides with their history,” said Poste.

“But I’ll say to our guys ‘this is your chance to show what you can do’. We’re here because we deserve to be.

“I don’t want to slip into a comfort zone and be happy just to be on the same field as those clubs.

“We need to go forward, to evolve, so there’s no sense of anti-climax.

“I’ve been very wary not to curtail the celebrations after winning the league, because the boys should revel in it.

“They haven’t heard much from me since, and I’ve done that consciously.”

Northwich begin preparations for the new term at the end of this month.

Their squad will largely be unchanged from the one that won 21 successive matches to capture the South Lancs/Cheshire Division One title.

“I still challenge anybody to take on our backs division,” added Poste.

“I think continuity is important too, particularly when you’re trying to implement something that will last.

“There are people here with a considerable amount to offer, and it’s my job to get the best out of them.”

The former Harlequins assistant coach has been tasked by chairman Ron McLaverty, and the rest of Blacks’ committee, to implement his philosophy throughout the club.

Steve Lander, Poste’s right-hand man last term, will help plan how.

“He’s got a major role to play,” added Poste.

“I think rugby union can learn a lot from soccer about management.

"That’s how I see my position; as a football manager-type figure.

“I don’t need to bring in a new team, because I’m confident we already have the right people.

“Instead we need to use them in the right way, and become more professional in our outlook on these things.

“We all have that responsibility. 

“The committee have put their faith in me, and for an old man like I am it’s a great feeling.

“This isn’t what I’d call a £1m club that can pay to get to where they want to.

“We have to be shrewder than that, but it can be done.”