National One Dream Team: Rotherham Titans and Plymouth Albion leading the way

Ben Jaycock canvassed the views of The Rugby Paper’s National One correspondents to select the 2025/26 Team of the Season

Rotherham Titans held their nerve in one of the tightest title races in recent memory to be crowned champions on the final day and win five selections in this term’s Team of the Season.

The Titans’ dramatic 34–26 victory over Sale FC sealed promotion to The Champ and capped a campaign built on consistency, power and a clinical edge in big moments.

They are joined by three choices from runners-up Blackheath and another five from third-placed Plymouth Albion, while Rosslyn Park and Bishop’s Stortford both have one player in the team, ensuring the final selection gives a fair reflection of the depth of talent across the division.

With the top three separated by just seven points, competition for places was fierce, particularly in the back row and half-backs, where several standout performers narrowly miss out.

The back row proved the most competitive area, with players such as Harry Newborn, Finn Osborne, Callum Bustin and others pushing hard for inclusion, while the scrum-half and fly-half positions were equally tightly contested.

Elsewhere, Rosslyn Park’s attacking threats and the contributions from sides like Rams and Bishop’s Stortford highlight the depth and quality across National One this season.

The season itself was defined by attacking rugby and relentless tempo, with over 1,600 tries scored across the campaign and an average pushing nine per game.

Yet, while the backs lit up the division, it was often forward dominance and set-piece control that proved decisive in the biggest matches – something reflected heavily in the make-up of this side.

From left to right: Top – Isaac Shaw, Jackson Barling, Lloyd Hayes, Tom Hitchcock, Luke Mehson, Iwan Jenkins and Jack Oulton; Bottom – Alastair Donkor, Billy Harding, Dan Pullinger, Freddie Stevenson, Ed Scragg, John Okafor, Noah Sloot and Ben Moa

15. Isaac Shaw (Rotherham Titans)

A near-unanimous pick and the standout full-back in the division. Shaw was described as “rock solid under the high ball” and an “assured handler” who could “pick a pass and finish”. Crossing 15 times from the backfield, the former Ealing Trailfinders man proved a brilliant find and a key part of the champions’ attacking threat. Meanwhile, Sale’s Mark Dixon and Clifton‘s Harry Johnson impressed with their reliability and kicking games.

14. Jackson Barling (Rotherham Titans)

Barling’s impact on the wing was immense, finishing with 24 tries and earning Player of the Week honours on the final day. A “fabulous signing” who mixed pace, power and instinct, he consistently delivered in big moments and edges out a competitive field of wide men. Elsewhere, Rosslyn Park’s Luke Manson and Leeds’ Albert Bradshaw showed quality in flashes, while Blackheath’s Jake Hennessey enjoyed an excellent campaign.

13. Lloyd Hayes (Rotherham Titans)

“Death, taxes and Hayes finishing as top points scorer” summed up another remarkable season. The Rotherham centre racked up 328 points and produced the defining moment of the campaign with a late drop-goal against Plymouth. A constant attacking threat and reliable goal-kicker. Plymouth’s Oscar Stewart and Rotherham’s Richard Hayes also featured prominently in discussions.

12. Tom Hitchcock (Bishop’s Stortford)

A class act at inside centre, Hitchcock’s influence was clear with Stortford’s dramatic improvement when he featured. Strong defensively and creative in attack, he was repeatedly highlighted as a difference-maker in the division. Clifton’s Harry Johnson and Leeds’ Charlie Venables were also standout performers in the 12 channel.

11. Luke Mehson (Rosslyn Park)

One of the league’s most lethal finishers, Meh-son scored 25 tries despite not always starting. His ability to find space and deliver consistently puts him ahead in a crowded wing debate that included several strong contenders. Rams’ Axel Kalling-Smith, Clifton’s Zak Hamid and Tonbridge Juddians’ Curtis Barnes also caught the eye.

10. Iwan Jenkins (Plymouth Albion)

Jenkins edges a tight fly-half race thanks to his control and consistency. The Exeter loanee “controlled things beautifully” and was outstanding both from the tee and out of hand, finishing as one of the division’s leading points scorers. Blackheath’s Sam Morley and Tonbridge Juddians’ Lewis Gjaltema pushed him close in a competitive position.

9. Jack Oulton (Plymouth Albion)

The heartbeat of Plymouth’s third-place finish, Oulton’s all-round game earns him the nod at scrum-half. With 12 tries and excellent game management, he just shades a fiercely competitive field that included Jordan Burns and JB Bruzulier. Blackheath’s Burns, Rotherham’s Bruzulier and Tonbridge Juddians’ Connor Lloyd all received strong backing.

1. Alastair Donkor (Rotherham Titans)

A cornerstone of Rotherham’s title-winning pack, Donkor’s set-piece dominance provided the platform for their success. Consistently powerful in the scrum and effective in the loose. Clifton’s Ricky Cano and Rams’ James Baker also impressed at the coalface.

2. Billy Harding (Blackheath)

The easiest selection in the team. Harding’s record-breaking 47 tries underline a phenomenal campaign, but his leadership and all-round play were equally important in Blackheath’s push for promotion. Birmingham Moseley‘s Ben Pogson and others earned plaudits, but none could match Harding’s output.

3. Dan Pullinger (Plymouth Albion)

A dominant force in the tight, Pullinger’s work around the park and authority at the set-piece made him one of the league’s standout props. Dings Crusaders’ Sam Scott and Rams stalwart James Baker were also highly regarded.

4. Freddie Stevenson (Plymouth Albion)

A towering presence in the second row, Stevenson was “a real handful” throughout the campaign. His consistency and physicality were key to Plymouth’s strong season. Blackheath’s Archie Smeaton and Rams’ Harry Stone also delivered standout performances.

5. Ed Scragg (Blackheath)

Scragg was the architect of Blackheath’s lineout and driving maul, earning widespread praise for his leadership and technical excellence. An ever-present and hugely influential figure. Rotherham’s Harry Gilson-Fox also impressed with his physical presence and leadership.

6. John Okafor (Rotherham Titans)

An athletic and dynamic back rower, Okafor combined physicality with skill, scoring 11 tries from the flank. A constant presence in Rotherham’s title charge. Rosslyn Park’s Cameron King and Sale’s Andy Hughes were also key performers.

7. Noah Sloot (Blackheath)

A tireless performer who played every game, Sloot’s workrate and turnover ability were vital to Blackheath’s success. A consistent presence in a highly competitive position. Rotherham captain Harry Newborn and Clifton’s Jay Evans also earned strong praise.

8. Ben Moa (Plymouth Albion)

An all-action No.8 who excelled in carrying, tackling and defensive work. Moa’s influence at the base of the scrum helped drive Plymouth’s forward momentum throughout the season. Blackheath’s Finn Osborne and Rams’ Willo Bicknell were also among the standout No.8s.