ST JOSEPH'S visit Illingworth in Division I of the Pennine League knowing their future now lies in the Premier Division!

A return to the top flight was confirmed in midweek after a thrilling 30-29 triumph over Birkenshaw at a packed Fartown.

But coach Jody Shaw's side had to do it the hard way.

The signs looked ominous as they trailed 22-8 at the break, with their points coming from a Leon Alexis try and two Neil Barrett goals.

But the second half was a different story.

Within five minutes of the restart, Paul Horsfall burrowed over and Barrett converted. 22-14.

Then Danny Aspinall raced 30m to score, and it was 22-18.

And five minutes later, Phil Drain sent in James Street, with Barrett converting to put St Joseph's ahead for the first time at 24-22.

But just as the home side were starting to think of promotion glory, Birkenshaw hit back strongly to score a converted try and drop goal to regain control.

At 29-24 all looked lost.

But St Joseph's showed great determination and, with time ticking away, Drain spun the ball out wide to Barrett, who charged over under the posts and then converted to make it 30-29.

However, this wasn't the final twist as Birkenshaw had a late opportunity to win it with a penalty that went wide.

St Joseph's then held tight and saw out the final nail-biting minutes to spark jubilant scenes of celebration.

"What these guys have achieved this year is fantastic, I am proud of each and every one of them," said delighted coach Shaw.

"This was probably the hardest match of the season and we showed terrific desire and determination not to be stopped.

"We have achieved a major goal this year and will ply our trade in the Premier Division next season. The lads deserve it, they have worked hard all year for this and now they have done it."

As well as St Joseph's at Illingworth, Moldgreen are also in First Division action tomorrow and travel to Victoria Rangers.

But there's no doubting the biggest games of the weekend for a Huddersfield club this weekend.

That's when leaders Slaithwaite Saracens travel to second-placed Whitehall Warriors tomorrow, knowing victory will secure them the Division IV title.

But a defeat means coach Steve Russell's side will have to wait until the last week of the season for their fate to be confirmed.

And the Saracens know they will need to be at their best to beat a Warriors side who have lost only twice this season. Slaithwaite have been beaten once and shared in a draw.

In the Second Division, both Huddersfield sides are on their travels.

Newsome Panthers are at Boothtown Terriers and Emley Moor visit Ackworth Jaguars.

In Division III, Lindley Swifts host Silsden Park Rangers, while in Division VI, St Joseph's A are at home to Wibsey Warriors.