SWIMMERS representing Northwich Centurions tested themselves against older and more experienced rivals when the National Arena League resumed last weekend.

And they held their own too, finishing fourth overall after a testing North West Division Two fixture at Darwen.

A total of eight wins, including success in the under 13s girls’ and under 11s girls’ medley relay races, represented a productive evening for their team.

“We couldn’t have asked any more of them,” said Jo Bradshaw, Centurions’ development head coach.

“Every swimmer gave their all, and those that had to step up an age-group category did so with real determination.”

Dane Valley ranked highest on the night, eight points clear of Chorley Marlins.

Northwich were pipped to third by Copeland.

That leaves them ninth in the standings after two rounds and secures for them a place in next month’s bottom final at the same venue.

They will return with optimism.

Bradshaw said: “I think last weekend proved we have a strong core of talented swimmers with many more on the verge of making a breakthrough at that level.

“It gives us a solid foundation on which to build from here.”

This season’s National Arena League concludes on Saturday, December 8.