LIVERPOOL ST HELENS enter the Christmas break in a very satisfactory fourth position in North One West.

Perhaps more importantly, the whole club, in every aspect, moves into 2010 in a very healthy position.

That’s the view of Newton-le-Willows man Phil Boulton, installed as new director of rugby Martin Jones’s number two in the summer.

“There’s a really good feel around the place with lots of different people working hard for the good of others,” he said.

“What makes this club stand out for me is the support off the field.

“As well as the committee and all those running the senior, junior and girls sections, LSH has a tremendous and vocal regular support.”

Boulton recalls the wonderment from one of the new players brought in this season, after making his LSH debut.

“The lad came up to me after the game with a broad smile on his face and said it’s really nice here, they get behind you and clap and cheer all the time,” Boulton said. And the 43-year-old assistant head teacher at St Peter & Paul Catholic Sports College in Widnes agrees.

“There are loyal supporters everywhere,” he said.

“But I think the ones here are a bit special. They encourage more than criticise and the travelling fans are superb. The team really appreciates their support.”

Boulton is particularly struck by the competitive nature of the North One West league.

“Although Lymm have opened up a bit of a gap there is not much between the rest of us,” he said.

“There is still everything to play for.”

Reflecting on the season so far he rates the 25-3 victory against Leigh and the 24-12 win at New Brighton as LSH’s best performances with the narrow 11-6 defeat at Broughton Park as the most disappointing.

Burnage, new to the division, are the opposition that has impressed him most.

He said: “They were well organised and had a strong defence. In the end a 20-20 draw was a fair result.”

Bring on the New Year is his message. Boulton has enjoyed his first experience at Moss Lane and acknowledges the contribution of LSH’S established players together with some impressive new recruits. He is also well aware of those knocking on the door of the first team.

Boulton added: “Whatever happens this season there is a lot more to look forward to with youngsters such as Jamie Clare, Mike Garrity and Matt Griffiths eager to get their chance and plenty more coming through.”