BOLTON Mets are celebrating after surpassing their pre-season target by winning every other game and finishing mid-table in the North West Counties League Division Four.

The town's only adult rugby league team saw an enthusiastic pre-season training programme pay off in September with a string of victories. But the good start went to waste as Bolton suffered some punishing defeats as key players were absent in the run up to Christmas.

They turned it round in the New Year, as they notched nine victories from 11 games in 2007.

Coach Chris Brown believes that promotion would have been possible if that form had been maintained all season.

Club chairman Jack Dorning has also been praised by the club for his tireless work putting games on as well as physio Glenn Jones.

Assistant coach Rick Brookes has been commended for his invaluable technical expertise. Brookes has now taken up a new position with the Darwen-based National Conference outfit East Lancs Lions, and he has gone with the blessing of Bolton Mets.

And the club has thanked sponsors Pearl Windows, and the Farmers Arms in Darcy Lever for providing after match hospitality.

Bolton RUFC have also been mentioned by the club for coming to the Mets' rescue in February and March, hosting matches when the pitch at Newhouse Farm was repeatedly unplayable.

Pre-season training starts again in May.

Mr Dorning said it has been the best season since Bolton Mets started 11 years ago.

"What makes the difference is when you do well you are going to attract better players.

"We are very pleased that the squad of 25 players have done so well to achieve the results they have and it bodes well for the future."