Hull KR 18
Leigh Centurions 22
Dave Parkinson from Bloomfield Road.
It was a case of Grix and determination in the Blackpool sun as Leigh went to the seaside, and came back with the Northern Rail Cup following an unstinting defensive effort.
Back in February, Leigh began their season at Bloomfield Road and it was somewhat ironic that they should return, claim the first piece of National League silverware and end a 24-match unbeaten run from Hull Kingston Rovers.
Key to their victory was a magnificent performance from fullback Scott Grix and the often unheralded work of forwards Ricky Bibey, Paul Rowley, Dana Wilson, Tere Glassie, Chris Hill, Robert Roberts, James Taylor and Warren Stevens.
Despite arriving in the Blackpool cauldron with a couple of niggling injuries, Leigh took the lead after 9 minutes after Rovers had been pinned deep in their quarter by Aaron Heremaia’s kicking. Robins fullback Ben Cockayne then charged into the tackling Heremaia and up stepped Mick Govin to strike the penalty home via the post.
That lead lasted just five minutes as Rovers clinically marched downfield, inspired by former Leigh winger Leroy Rivett who spun away from two tacklers on a brave kick return. Rovers then moved the ball quickly and accurately through several pairs of hands for Jon Goddard to support Byron Ford and race away from a despairing Dean Gaskell. Gareth Morton tagged on the conversion. Rovers then saw a chance frittered away by French centre Damien Couturier but Morton was back in the kicking groove after 21 minutes when Ford was awarded a try by the video referee following an awful pass from Adam Hughes.
There was some contention to the score as former Leeds junior Tommy Gallagher appeared to deliberately knock the ball out of the arms of James Taylor in the build-up.
Typically, Taylor put that behind him and alongside Glassie and Roberts was one of the key figures in turning the Centurions defence around. The changes only began to take place after 25 minutes and by that time; Rovers had claimed another try when Ben Fisher, Dwayne Barker and Scott Murrell worked an opening for Cockayne to race through for his 22nd try of the season. Morton missed the kick but even the most optimistic of Leigh fans were questioning whether the Centurions could reply from a 16-2 deficit.
The answer came from the team; an emphatic yes!
With the ante upped in defence, Leigh restricted Rovers to a 30 metre gain on their next set and hurried Murrell into the kick.
What happened next was sheer poetry.
Grix took possession and passed to Lee Greenwood before looping for the return. He then stepped on the inside and raced into the hole. With Rowley on his inside, Grix cleverly drew 3 defenders and sent the captain haring under the posts from 40 metres. Govin converted before an almighty mix-up between Rivett and Cockayne saw Grix chase through his own kick, collect and dive in at the corner.
With all the pressure on their line, Hull KR wilted and Leigh went close through Hughes and Heremaia before turning over possession. Enthusiastic tackling from Roberts then trapped Iain Morrison in-goal and the Centurions laid the platform for a third try. Tere Glassie was the scorer as he showed good strength to go over despite having 3 defenders clinging to him. Referee Jamie Leahy referred the decision upstairs and after an agonising wait benefit of doubt went with the Cook Island international.
It meant that the teams headed to the break all square, 16-16 with the prospect of another intriguing half ahead.
The first ten minutes of the second half saw Leigh camp on the Rovers line where the commitment in the tackle was excellent. The Centurions had the first scoring opportunity of the new half when Glassie got Adam Hughes in a great position and the centre thundered down the wing for the second time in the game. Unfortunately Hughes was injured in the move and had to be replaced.
Rovers then launched the ball into the Centurions 20’ and two tackles later Gaskell lost the ball after a typically brave run in midfield that saw him bounce off three tacklers including Robins favourite Makali Aizue.
Leigh then conceded a penalty for offside and the tall Morton slotted his third goal over the bar to give the Rovers an 18-16 lead.
The chase from the kick-off and defence was good again and it wasn’t long before the Centurions turned this into possession. Unfortunately Grix couldn’t take Bibeys one handed offload and instead took a crunching tackle from Murrell.
Aggressive running from Danny Halliwell three minutes later bought the Centurions a penalty and they pushed forward to score a decisive try on the hour. Rock-like Dana Wilson was the scorer, taking an inside passes from Heremaia at pace before touching down from close range. Govin added his third goal and it was 22-18.
Cue the drama.
Seeing their long unbeaten run slipping in front of them, Rovers became increasingly desperate. A 65th minute opportunity went to ground from Goddard when the centre knocked on following Govin’s unsuccessful intercept and the Robins came forward again four minutes later. A lofted kick from Murrell was knocked inside by Ford but Morrison couldn’t collect with the line wide open.
Leigh returned to the basics that had served them so well and when Ford fumbled Halliwell’s hammered kick downfield, the kick chase got their man. Rovers made good ground and a threatening attack saw man-of-the-match Grix save a try with an all or nothing tackle on Cockayne. Couturier thought that he’d scored an all important try seconds later when Murrell flicked the ball out of a tackle. Again the decision went to video referee Bob Connolly who ruled that the tackle on Murrell had been completed and awarded a hand-over to the Centurions.
This all but ended Rovers challenge as Leigh wound the clock down to claim victory in an error-strewn yet compelling final that had every one of the 7,547 crowd on the edge of their seats.
Hull KR:
1 Ben Cockayne
2 Leroy Rivett
3 Damien Couturier
4 Jon Goddard
5 Byron Ford
6 Tommy Gallagher
7 Scott Murrell
8 Makali Aizue
9 Ben Fisher
10 David Tangata-Toa
11 Iain Morrison
12 Gareth Morton
13 Dwayne Barker
14 Francis Stephenson
15 Andy Ellis
16 Gareth Price
17 Michael Smith
Tries: Goddard (14), Ford (20), Cockayne (25)
Goals: Morton 3/4
Leigh Centurions
1 Scott Grix
2 Dean Gaskell
3 Adam Hughes
4 Danny Halliwell
5 Lee Greenwood
6 Mick Govin
7 Aaron Heremaia
8 Ricky Bibey
9 Paul Rowley
10 Dana Wilson
11 Chris Hill
12 Tere Glassie
13 Robert Roberts
14 Carl Forber
15 Danny Speakman
16 James Taylor
17 Warren Stevens
Tries: Rowley (28), Grix (31), Glassie (38), Wilson (60).
Goals: Govin 3/5.
Progressive Score:
0-2; 6-2; 12-2; 16-2; 16-8; 16-12; 16-16; 18-16; 18-22.
Referee: Jamie Leahy
Penalties: 6-6
Attendance: 7,547
Thursday 14 January 2010
Sunday 10 January 2010
1999 Season Reports: August: LEIGH CENTURIONS 32 LANCASHIRE LYNX 20
NFP RD 26: LEIGH CENTURIONS 32 LANCASHIRE LYNX 20
By Dave Parkinson
Leigh took top spot in the Northern Ford Premiership for the first time this year with a hard fought victory over a brave Lancashire Lynx outfit.
Led from the front by halfbacks Alexander and Flanagan, Lynx were never far away and Leigh had to rely on three touchdowns in the final quarter to seal their win.
Early on there was little to choose between the sides as both packs cancelled each other out. Leigh lost captain Jamie Kennedy after just 3 minutes when the second-row damaged an ankle while tackling Horton.
Graeme Close, signed earlier in the week from Workington Town, tried to spark Leigh's attack but his team mates didn't make the best of his lively running and Lynx hit back when Flanagan hit a 40-20 kick.
Lancashire had their best spell moments after Heath Cruckshank was sin-binned for obstruction on Parsley. Alexander tagged on a penalty and scored the game's first try after 25 minutes with an individual effort.
Eleven minutes later, Stuart Donlan dragged Leigh back into the game with a ghosting run, Anthony Murray supported on his inside and Leigh were level with Paul Wingfield's first goal of the afternoon.
Close then went 40 metres from the scrum before a flying tackle prevented the halfback scoring on his debut. Not to be outdone, Leigh put the ball wide and Ken Kerr finished a four pass movement, making up for an earlier spillage with the line beckoning.
Six minutes into first half stoppage time, Donlan was felled by a "dangerous throw" that was missed by the officials. Momentarily dazed, Donlan passed the ball to Purtill without making an attempt to play it. Referee Shaw harshly chose to penalise the fullback and Alexander kicked the points to a crescendo of boos and jeers.
The first 10 minutes of the second half followed much the same pattern as Lynx pack again went toe-to-toe with the Leigh six. Hard working Solomon and Walsh were prominent but they were equalled in the Leigh pack by Tim Street.
Murray grew in stature as the game wore on, controlling the play-the-ball area and repeatedly asking questions of the Lynx defence.
It was from one of these typical bursts that Leigh stretched their lead to 6 points when Murray's pass was intercepted by a Lynx defender in an offside position and Wingfield converted the penalty.
Lynx reply came quickly when a 70-metre move ended with former Wakefield and Oldham winger Dave Jones crossing on the hour. Alexander's conversion tied the scores.
Leigh had to win this game again, and set about their task with relish as Lynx tried to slow it down. Cruckshank capitalised on good approach play by Murray, Close and Keiron Purtill to score by the posts and give Wingfield an easy goal.
Wingfield had his sights set again eight minutes later, striking another penalty after a high tackle on Cruckshank.
Until the final quarter, Keiron Purtill was having a quiet afternoon, allowing his new half-back partner to dictate, but he stamped his authority on the game with the final two tries. Sandwiched between these, "Doc" Murray kept Leigh on their toes with an opportunist score, but it turned out to be little more than consolation as the home sides superior teamwork won through.
Leigh Centurions: 32
Threequarters: Donlan, Wingfield, Kendrick, Kerr, Ingram
Half-backs: Purtill, Close
Forwards: Street, Anthony Murray, Whittle, Cruickshank, Kennedy, Fairclough
Substitutes: Halliwell, Norman, Pucill, Higham
Tries: Murray (36), Kerr (40), Cruickshank (64), Purtill (74, 83)
Goals: Wingfield 6 (from 7).
Defeated
Lancashire Lynx: 20
Threequarters: Parsley, Ratcliffe,"Doc" Murray, Abram, Jones
Half-backs: Alexander, Flannagan
Forwards: Horton, Bennett, Prest, Solomon, Walsh, Hodgkinson
Substitutes: Roberts, Geritas, Fisher, Gee
Tries: Alexander (25), Jones (60), Murray (78)
Goals: Alexander 4 (from 5).
Halftime: 12-8 to Leigh.
Full-time: 32-20 to Leigh.
Attendance: 1,846 @ Hilton Park, Leigh
Gamestars:
Leigh: Murray / Close - Hooker / Scrum-half
Lynx: Alexander / Flannagan - Stand-off / Scrum-half
By Dave Parkinson
Leigh took top spot in the Northern Ford Premiership for the first time this year with a hard fought victory over a brave Lancashire Lynx outfit.
Led from the front by halfbacks Alexander and Flanagan, Lynx were never far away and Leigh had to rely on three touchdowns in the final quarter to seal their win.
Early on there was little to choose between the sides as both packs cancelled each other out. Leigh lost captain Jamie Kennedy after just 3 minutes when the second-row damaged an ankle while tackling Horton.
Graeme Close, signed earlier in the week from Workington Town, tried to spark Leigh's attack but his team mates didn't make the best of his lively running and Lynx hit back when Flanagan hit a 40-20 kick.
Lancashire had their best spell moments after Heath Cruckshank was sin-binned for obstruction on Parsley. Alexander tagged on a penalty and scored the game's first try after 25 minutes with an individual effort.
Eleven minutes later, Stuart Donlan dragged Leigh back into the game with a ghosting run, Anthony Murray supported on his inside and Leigh were level with Paul Wingfield's first goal of the afternoon.
Close then went 40 metres from the scrum before a flying tackle prevented the halfback scoring on his debut. Not to be outdone, Leigh put the ball wide and Ken Kerr finished a four pass movement, making up for an earlier spillage with the line beckoning.
Six minutes into first half stoppage time, Donlan was felled by a "dangerous throw" that was missed by the officials. Momentarily dazed, Donlan passed the ball to Purtill without making an attempt to play it. Referee Shaw harshly chose to penalise the fullback and Alexander kicked the points to a crescendo of boos and jeers.
The first 10 minutes of the second half followed much the same pattern as Lynx pack again went toe-to-toe with the Leigh six. Hard working Solomon and Walsh were prominent but they were equalled in the Leigh pack by Tim Street.
Murray grew in stature as the game wore on, controlling the play-the-ball area and repeatedly asking questions of the Lynx defence.
It was from one of these typical bursts that Leigh stretched their lead to 6 points when Murray's pass was intercepted by a Lynx defender in an offside position and Wingfield converted the penalty.
Lynx reply came quickly when a 70-metre move ended with former Wakefield and Oldham winger Dave Jones crossing on the hour. Alexander's conversion tied the scores.
Leigh had to win this game again, and set about their task with relish as Lynx tried to slow it down. Cruckshank capitalised on good approach play by Murray, Close and Keiron Purtill to score by the posts and give Wingfield an easy goal.
Wingfield had his sights set again eight minutes later, striking another penalty after a high tackle on Cruckshank.
Until the final quarter, Keiron Purtill was having a quiet afternoon, allowing his new half-back partner to dictate, but he stamped his authority on the game with the final two tries. Sandwiched between these, "Doc" Murray kept Leigh on their toes with an opportunist score, but it turned out to be little more than consolation as the home sides superior teamwork won through.
Leigh Centurions: 32
Threequarters: Donlan, Wingfield, Kendrick, Kerr, Ingram
Half-backs: Purtill, Close
Forwards: Street, Anthony Murray, Whittle, Cruickshank, Kennedy, Fairclough
Substitutes: Halliwell, Norman, Pucill, Higham
Tries: Murray (36), Kerr (40), Cruickshank (64), Purtill (74, 83)
Goals: Wingfield 6 (from 7).
Defeated
Lancashire Lynx: 20
Threequarters: Parsley, Ratcliffe,"Doc" Murray, Abram, Jones
Half-backs: Alexander, Flannagan
Forwards: Horton, Bennett, Prest, Solomon, Walsh, Hodgkinson
Substitutes: Roberts, Geritas, Fisher, Gee
Tries: Alexander (25), Jones (60), Murray (78)
Goals: Alexander 4 (from 5).
Halftime: 12-8 to Leigh.
Full-time: 32-20 to Leigh.
Attendance: 1,846 @ Hilton Park, Leigh
Gamestars:
Leigh: Murray / Close - Hooker / Scrum-half
Lynx: Alexander / Flannagan - Stand-off / Scrum-half
1999 Season Reports: August: LEIGH CENTURIONS 66 OLDHAM 6
NFP RD 25 LEIGH 66 OLDHAM 6
By Dave Parkinson
Leigh put their narrow defeat at Widnes behind them and returned to form with a resounding 12 try victory over struggling Oldham.
Anthony Murray, recalled at hooker after completing a three game suspension had an excellent game, crossing for a try hat-trick and he was instrumental in many of Leigh's best moves.
Following a disjointed opening by both teams, Murray stamped his authority on the game after 12 minutes with a forty metre sprint from dummy-half.
Paul Wingfield added the first of his 9 goal haul, but Oldham hit straight back when Brown and Leuila opened the defence and speedy centre Mead set sail for the line.
The flying Oldham back was tracked down by Stuart Donlan who pulled off a copybook tackle to put Mead into touch a metre from the line.
Returning captain Andy Fairclough split the defence in the 19th minute, putting Kennedy over for the games second try before Leigh hit injury problems.
Jamie Kennedy was forced off with a shoulder injury and James Arkwright was carried off after an innocuous looking tackle.
The rugged visiting pack tried to get the better of their opponents and succeeded in temporarily knocking them off their game with Round, Nadiole and Perrett in the thick of things.
Sandwiched between tries from Wingfield and Fairclough, Stuart Donlan set Hilton Park alight with an electrifying break that left a host of defenders in his wake but Leuila and Mead combined to haul the fullback into touch just of a deserved short.
With stand-off Webster in the sinbin for disputing Fairclough's first try, Oldham's task was made almost impossible as Leigh romped over for 3 tries in his absence.
Murray added his second try before halftime for a 28-0 scoreline and Phil Kendrick and Fairclough extended the score to forty points. Those early second-half tries for Leigh proved how costly a sinbinning can be.
In previous games, Leigh could be accused of slowing down, but for Oldham there was no respite.
Kendrick crashed over for his second try and was quickly followed by Ken Kerr, finishing a move started by Keiron Purtill.
Brown tried a short kick-off that forced a mistake. From the resulting scrum, Oldham worked the ball wide for Mead to display his pace and brush past Donlan in a try scoring run. Brown added the conversion and Oldham's loyal band of supporters finally had something to cheer.
Murray replied in typical fashion on the hour with his third, before Donlan grabbed a deserved try, supporting Ingram's break from the scrum.
Leigh's final try came 13 minutes from time when Andy Pucill and Fairclough
created the opening and substitute Mick Higham nipped over to end another fruitless day for the Roughyeds.
Leigh Centurions: 66
Threequarters: Donlan, Wingfield, Kendrick, Kerr, Halliwell
Halfbacks: Arkwright, Purtill
Forwards: Street, Murray, Whittle, Cruickshank, Kennedy, Fairclough
Substitutes: Pucill, Ingram, Norman, Higham.
Tries: (Mins in Brackets)
Murray (12, 40, 60), Kennedy (19), Wingfield (28), Fairclough (39, 43), Kendrick (41, 50), Kerr (54), Donlan (63), Higham (67).
Goals: Wingfield 9 (from 12)
Defeated
Oldham: 6
Threequarters: Leuila, Brassington, Meade, Jackman, McNicholas
Halfbacks: Webster, Brown
Forwards: Casey, Hough, Clegg, Round, Nadiole, Perrett
Substitutes: Crook, Brennan, Guest, Peralta.
Tries: (Mins in Brackets)
Meade (56)
Goals: Brown 1 (from 1)
Halftime: 28-0 to Leigh
Attendance: 1691 @ Hilton Park, Leigh.
Game Stars:
Leigh: Murray / Donlan - Hooker / Full-back
Oldham: Meade / Webster - Centre / Stand-off
By Dave Parkinson
Leigh put their narrow defeat at Widnes behind them and returned to form with a resounding 12 try victory over struggling Oldham.
Anthony Murray, recalled at hooker after completing a three game suspension had an excellent game, crossing for a try hat-trick and he was instrumental in many of Leigh's best moves.
Following a disjointed opening by both teams, Murray stamped his authority on the game after 12 minutes with a forty metre sprint from dummy-half.
Paul Wingfield added the first of his 9 goal haul, but Oldham hit straight back when Brown and Leuila opened the defence and speedy centre Mead set sail for the line.
The flying Oldham back was tracked down by Stuart Donlan who pulled off a copybook tackle to put Mead into touch a metre from the line.
Returning captain Andy Fairclough split the defence in the 19th minute, putting Kennedy over for the games second try before Leigh hit injury problems.
Jamie Kennedy was forced off with a shoulder injury and James Arkwright was carried off after an innocuous looking tackle.
The rugged visiting pack tried to get the better of their opponents and succeeded in temporarily knocking them off their game with Round, Nadiole and Perrett in the thick of things.
Sandwiched between tries from Wingfield and Fairclough, Stuart Donlan set Hilton Park alight with an electrifying break that left a host of defenders in his wake but Leuila and Mead combined to haul the fullback into touch just of a deserved short.
With stand-off Webster in the sinbin for disputing Fairclough's first try, Oldham's task was made almost impossible as Leigh romped over for 3 tries in his absence.
Murray added his second try before halftime for a 28-0 scoreline and Phil Kendrick and Fairclough extended the score to forty points. Those early second-half tries for Leigh proved how costly a sinbinning can be.
In previous games, Leigh could be accused of slowing down, but for Oldham there was no respite.
Kendrick crashed over for his second try and was quickly followed by Ken Kerr, finishing a move started by Keiron Purtill.
Brown tried a short kick-off that forced a mistake. From the resulting scrum, Oldham worked the ball wide for Mead to display his pace and brush past Donlan in a try scoring run. Brown added the conversion and Oldham's loyal band of supporters finally had something to cheer.
Murray replied in typical fashion on the hour with his third, before Donlan grabbed a deserved try, supporting Ingram's break from the scrum.
Leigh's final try came 13 minutes from time when Andy Pucill and Fairclough
created the opening and substitute Mick Higham nipped over to end another fruitless day for the Roughyeds.
Leigh Centurions: 66
Threequarters: Donlan, Wingfield, Kendrick, Kerr, Halliwell
Halfbacks: Arkwright, Purtill
Forwards: Street, Murray, Whittle, Cruickshank, Kennedy, Fairclough
Substitutes: Pucill, Ingram, Norman, Higham.
Tries: (Mins in Brackets)
Murray (12, 40, 60), Kennedy (19), Wingfield (28), Fairclough (39, 43), Kendrick (41, 50), Kerr (54), Donlan (63), Higham (67).
Goals: Wingfield 9 (from 12)
Defeated
Oldham: 6
Threequarters: Leuila, Brassington, Meade, Jackman, McNicholas
Halfbacks: Webster, Brown
Forwards: Casey, Hough, Clegg, Round, Nadiole, Perrett
Substitutes: Crook, Brennan, Guest, Peralta.
Tries: (Mins in Brackets)
Meade (56)
Goals: Brown 1 (from 1)
Halftime: 28-0 to Leigh
Attendance: 1691 @ Hilton Park, Leigh.
Game Stars:
Leigh: Murray / Donlan - Hooker / Full-back
Oldham: Meade / Webster - Centre / Stand-off
1999 Season Reports: August: WIDNES VIKINGS 9 LEIGH CENTURIONS 6
NFP Round 24 Widnes Vikings 9 Leigh Centurions 6
By Dave Parkinson
Widnes stepped up their "Super League Challenge" with a third tense game against Leigh in front of a bumper 5000 crowd at the Autoquest stadium.
Narrowly defeated in both Challenge Cup and League meetings this term, Leigh wanted to make amends while Widnes were looking to maintain their recent run into the play-offs.
The game was barely a minute old when Mark Hewitt forced a drop out with a clever kick that almost fooled Paul Wingfield.
A ferocious opening spell was punctuated with handling errors as both teams struggled to gain advantage.
The Centurions first real chance of the game came from the boot of Keiron Purtill as his lofted kick swirled in the breeze and fell to Ken Kerr who in-turn fed Paul Wingfield only for the Widnes cover to deny a score.
Former Kiwi international and Leigh player George Mann was a thorn in the Centurions side all afternoon with an influential pack performance and it was he who intercepted a loose ball and charged before a great tackle by Stuart Donlan halted the big man.
Dave Ingram had a try disallowed for Leigh while at the other end Chris Percival was held short as the Centurions stepped up their defensive efforts.
Purtill's kicking game continued to cause problems for the home side but Jmes Arkwright couldn't hold a well placed grubber kick that would have certainly given the former Saint a 32nd minute try.
Three minutes later, the Centurions should have again taken the lead when Purtill was obstructed during a scything run, but the usually dependable Wingfield hooked his penalty attempt wide of the uprights.
Widnes hit back with hooker Cantillon (an increasingly dominant figure in the midfield) making good ground and Hewitt gave the home side the narrowest of leads with his 6th field goal of the season a minute from the break.
The Vikings made a great start to the second half and thought they had scored when James Briers sent Simon Verbickas over in the corner, but referee Presley spotted a forward pass and the try was ruled out.
Leigh's pattern changed with the introduction of Safraz Patel in the 49th minute, a tactical replacement for the hardworking Higham. This move reaped dividends when Patel latched onto a loose pass from Cruckshank, and slipped through for a Wingfield converted try after 51 minutes.
As Leigh entered the final quarter Patel attempted a long pass from within his own half. Hero turned villain when the predatory Paul Mannson intercepted the pass and raced under the posts unopposed. Hewitt's simple conversion gave Widnes a 7-6 lead with 19 minutes left.
Widnes looked to have scored a second try five minutes later but this was disallowed on the intervention of a touch judge. However, from this incident the Vikings were awarded a penalty and Hewitt converted.
Purtill's boot created late chances for Wingfield and Kerr but the Centurions lacked a clinical edge as Widnes scrambling defence held firm for a third close victory of the season over Leigh for the Vikings.
Widnes Vikings: 9
Threequarters: Munro, P. Smith, Percival, Briers, Verbickas
Halfbacks: Mannson, Hewitt
Forwards: Hansen, Cantillon, Savelio, Mann (c), Adams, Hulme
Substitutes: Myler, D. Smith, Hassan, Hill
Try: Mannson (61)
Goals: Hewitt 2 (from 2)
Drop Goal: Hewitt
Defeated
Leigh Centurions: 6
Threequarters: Donlan, Wingfield, Ingram, Kerr, Arkwright
Halfbacks: Bowker, Purtill
Forwards: Street, Higham, Cruickshank, Anderson, Kendrick, Kennedy (c)
Substitutes: Norman, Halliwell, Patel, Whittle
Try: Patel (51)
Goals: Wingfield 1 (from 2)
Halftime: 0-1 to Widnes.
Attendance: 5230 @ The Autoquest Stadium, Widnes (Largest crowd in the Premiership this season)
Gamestars:
Widnes: Cantillon / Mann - hooker / 2nd Row Forward
Leigh: Purtill / Cruickshank - Scrumhalf / Prop Forward
By Dave Parkinson
Widnes stepped up their "Super League Challenge" with a third tense game against Leigh in front of a bumper 5000 crowd at the Autoquest stadium.
Narrowly defeated in both Challenge Cup and League meetings this term, Leigh wanted to make amends while Widnes were looking to maintain their recent run into the play-offs.
The game was barely a minute old when Mark Hewitt forced a drop out with a clever kick that almost fooled Paul Wingfield.
A ferocious opening spell was punctuated with handling errors as both teams struggled to gain advantage.
The Centurions first real chance of the game came from the boot of Keiron Purtill as his lofted kick swirled in the breeze and fell to Ken Kerr who in-turn fed Paul Wingfield only for the Widnes cover to deny a score.
Former Kiwi international and Leigh player George Mann was a thorn in the Centurions side all afternoon with an influential pack performance and it was he who intercepted a loose ball and charged before a great tackle by Stuart Donlan halted the big man.
Dave Ingram had a try disallowed for Leigh while at the other end Chris Percival was held short as the Centurions stepped up their defensive efforts.
Purtill's kicking game continued to cause problems for the home side but Jmes Arkwright couldn't hold a well placed grubber kick that would have certainly given the former Saint a 32nd minute try.
Three minutes later, the Centurions should have again taken the lead when Purtill was obstructed during a scything run, but the usually dependable Wingfield hooked his penalty attempt wide of the uprights.
Widnes hit back with hooker Cantillon (an increasingly dominant figure in the midfield) making good ground and Hewitt gave the home side the narrowest of leads with his 6th field goal of the season a minute from the break.
The Vikings made a great start to the second half and thought they had scored when James Briers sent Simon Verbickas over in the corner, but referee Presley spotted a forward pass and the try was ruled out.
Leigh's pattern changed with the introduction of Safraz Patel in the 49th minute, a tactical replacement for the hardworking Higham. This move reaped dividends when Patel latched onto a loose pass from Cruckshank, and slipped through for a Wingfield converted try after 51 minutes.
As Leigh entered the final quarter Patel attempted a long pass from within his own half. Hero turned villain when the predatory Paul Mannson intercepted the pass and raced under the posts unopposed. Hewitt's simple conversion gave Widnes a 7-6 lead with 19 minutes left.
Widnes looked to have scored a second try five minutes later but this was disallowed on the intervention of a touch judge. However, from this incident the Vikings were awarded a penalty and Hewitt converted.
Purtill's boot created late chances for Wingfield and Kerr but the Centurions lacked a clinical edge as Widnes scrambling defence held firm for a third close victory of the season over Leigh for the Vikings.
Widnes Vikings: 9
Threequarters: Munro, P. Smith, Percival, Briers, Verbickas
Halfbacks: Mannson, Hewitt
Forwards: Hansen, Cantillon, Savelio, Mann (c), Adams, Hulme
Substitutes: Myler, D. Smith, Hassan, Hill
Try: Mannson (61)
Goals: Hewitt 2 (from 2)
Drop Goal: Hewitt
Defeated
Leigh Centurions: 6
Threequarters: Donlan, Wingfield, Ingram, Kerr, Arkwright
Halfbacks: Bowker, Purtill
Forwards: Street, Higham, Cruickshank, Anderson, Kendrick, Kennedy (c)
Substitutes: Norman, Halliwell, Patel, Whittle
Try: Patel (51)
Goals: Wingfield 1 (from 2)
Halftime: 0-1 to Widnes.
Attendance: 5230 @ The Autoquest Stadium, Widnes (Largest crowd in the Premiership this season)
Gamestars:
Widnes: Cantillon / Mann - hooker / 2nd Row Forward
Leigh: Purtill / Cruickshank - Scrumhalf / Prop Forward
1999 Season Reports: July: LEIGH CENTURIONS 32 BARROW 26
NFP RD 23 LEIGH 32 BARROW 26
By Dave Parkinson
Barrow Raiders arrived in Leigh hoping to clinch a tenth victory of the campaign and avenge two previous defeats to the Centurions in 1999.
Despite missing the skills of Tane Manihera, Barrow made a good opening and were rewarded when Magorian cut through after just four minutes.
Leigh were soon on level terms when Paul Anderson proved unstoppable near the line.
As mistakes crept into the home sides game Barrow upped the tempo and were rewarded when Hughes chipped through and collected Stuart Donlan's fumble for a second Raiders score in the 20th minute.
Leigh needed to reply quickly and were twice denied as first Phil Kendrick lost the ball in the tackle after a 25 metre break and Anderson was pulled back for a forward pass.
Outstanding home forward Tim Street showed a good turn of speed to power through a gap and carried fullback Salmon over the line in a 20 metre scoring run. Wingfield converted to tie the game.
Leigh were content to run the half down but Barrow had other ideas, forcing numerous errors before entertaining the crowd with some excellent support play that eventually saw Holt regather his own chip forward for a 37th minute touch down. The diminutive halfback also converted to give his team an 18-12 lead at half-time.
Barrow punished a sloppy start to the second half by the Centurions and stretched their lead when Luxon offloaded to Salmon who had too much speed for Donlan. Holt was unable to convert but the Raiders had a ten point cushion.
Leigh then took the game to their Cumbrian visitors. Darting runs by Donlan and Mick Higham set the position and the ball was swept wide for Jamie Kennedy to send David Ingram over for a Wingfield improved score in the 46th minute.
From their next possession Leigh almost scored but James Arkwright's inside pass went to ground and, when Ken Kerr knocked on with the line at his mercy in the 50th minute, even some of Leighs most optimistic fans must have feared it wasn't going to be the Centurion's day.
Leigh kept chipping away and were within two points when Wingfield added a 53rd minute penalty for a high tackle on substitute Whittle. Two minutes later Leigh's comeback was completed when Donlan supported a
midfield break from the sponsors man-of-the-match, Paul Anderson.
Barrow piled forward with punishing running from Rhodes and prop Blanchard, testing the Leigh defence before a set move from a scrum gave Atkinson an unconverted score to level the game.
Having worked hard to get back into the game Leigh weren't about to go down lightly and substitute Cruickshank typified the home teams spirit with a forceful charge to the line.
Wingfield added his 6th and final goal but Barrow attacked with venom only to be denied by Leigh's scrambling defence.
Leigh Centurions: 32
Threequarters: Donlan, Wingfield, Ingram, Kerr, Arkwright.
Halfbacks: Bowker, Patel
Forwards: Street, Higham, Pucill, Anderson, Kendrick, Kennedy
Substitutes: Cruickshank, Hadcroft, Whittle, Norman
Tries: (Min in Brackets)
Anderson (13), Street (24), Ingram (46), Donlan (55), Cruickshank (64).
Goals: Wingfield 6 (from 6)
Defeated
Barrow Raiders: 26
Threequarters: Salmon, Hutton, Atkinson, Magorian, Marshall
Halfbacks: Kavanagh, Holt
Forwards: Whiteley, Clarke, Barchard, Rhodes, Luxon, Hughes
Substitutes: Warwick, Gardner, Jackson, Spencely
Tries: (Min in Brackets)
Magorian (5), Hughes (20), Holt (37), Salmon (42), Atkinson (60)
Goals: Holt 3 (from 5)
Half-time: Barrow led 18-12.
Attendance: 1720 @ Hilton Park, Leigh.
Gamestars:
Leigh: Street / Anderson - Prop / Second-Row Forward
Barrow: Holt / Rhodes - Scrum-half / Second-Row Forward
By Dave Parkinson
Barrow Raiders arrived in Leigh hoping to clinch a tenth victory of the campaign and avenge two previous defeats to the Centurions in 1999.
Despite missing the skills of Tane Manihera, Barrow made a good opening and were rewarded when Magorian cut through after just four minutes.
Leigh were soon on level terms when Paul Anderson proved unstoppable near the line.
As mistakes crept into the home sides game Barrow upped the tempo and were rewarded when Hughes chipped through and collected Stuart Donlan's fumble for a second Raiders score in the 20th minute.
Leigh needed to reply quickly and were twice denied as first Phil Kendrick lost the ball in the tackle after a 25 metre break and Anderson was pulled back for a forward pass.
Outstanding home forward Tim Street showed a good turn of speed to power through a gap and carried fullback Salmon over the line in a 20 metre scoring run. Wingfield converted to tie the game.
Leigh were content to run the half down but Barrow had other ideas, forcing numerous errors before entertaining the crowd with some excellent support play that eventually saw Holt regather his own chip forward for a 37th minute touch down. The diminutive halfback also converted to give his team an 18-12 lead at half-time.
Barrow punished a sloppy start to the second half by the Centurions and stretched their lead when Luxon offloaded to Salmon who had too much speed for Donlan. Holt was unable to convert but the Raiders had a ten point cushion.
Leigh then took the game to their Cumbrian visitors. Darting runs by Donlan and Mick Higham set the position and the ball was swept wide for Jamie Kennedy to send David Ingram over for a Wingfield improved score in the 46th minute.
From their next possession Leigh almost scored but James Arkwright's inside pass went to ground and, when Ken Kerr knocked on with the line at his mercy in the 50th minute, even some of Leighs most optimistic fans must have feared it wasn't going to be the Centurion's day.
Leigh kept chipping away and were within two points when Wingfield added a 53rd minute penalty for a high tackle on substitute Whittle. Two minutes later Leigh's comeback was completed when Donlan supported a
midfield break from the sponsors man-of-the-match, Paul Anderson.
Barrow piled forward with punishing running from Rhodes and prop Blanchard, testing the Leigh defence before a set move from a scrum gave Atkinson an unconverted score to level the game.
Having worked hard to get back into the game Leigh weren't about to go down lightly and substitute Cruickshank typified the home teams spirit with a forceful charge to the line.
Wingfield added his 6th and final goal but Barrow attacked with venom only to be denied by Leigh's scrambling defence.
Leigh Centurions: 32
Threequarters: Donlan, Wingfield, Ingram, Kerr, Arkwright.
Halfbacks: Bowker, Patel
Forwards: Street, Higham, Pucill, Anderson, Kendrick, Kennedy
Substitutes: Cruickshank, Hadcroft, Whittle, Norman
Tries: (Min in Brackets)
Anderson (13), Street (24), Ingram (46), Donlan (55), Cruickshank (64).
Goals: Wingfield 6 (from 6)
Defeated
Barrow Raiders: 26
Threequarters: Salmon, Hutton, Atkinson, Magorian, Marshall
Halfbacks: Kavanagh, Holt
Forwards: Whiteley, Clarke, Barchard, Rhodes, Luxon, Hughes
Substitutes: Warwick, Gardner, Jackson, Spencely
Tries: (Min in Brackets)
Magorian (5), Hughes (20), Holt (37), Salmon (42), Atkinson (60)
Goals: Holt 3 (from 5)
Half-time: Barrow led 18-12.
Attendance: 1720 @ Hilton Park, Leigh.
Gamestars:
Leigh: Street / Anderson - Prop / Second-Row Forward
Barrow: Holt / Rhodes - Scrum-half / Second-Row Forward
1999 Season Reports: July: FEATHERSTONE ROVERS 18 LEIGH CENTURIONS 24
NFP RD 22 FEATHERSTONE 18 LEIGH 24
By Dave Parkinson
Back in March, Leigh ground out an important 16-12 home victory over Rovers, a result that contributed to the downfall of then Featherstone coach, Kevin Hobbs.
Four months on this was a key game for both sides, Leigh needed a win to maintain second spot while Featherstone were looking to force their way into the top five after going eight matches unbeaten with impressive wins over Oldham, Barrow and Widnes in the sequence. Leigh named a side that was a little short on preparation due to a flu virus in the camp.
Rovers largest home crowd of the season witnessed an exciting and full blooded game of Rugby League in which both scrum-halves were instrumental. An apprehensive opening by both teams set the tone before Rovers gained the upper hand. Okesene and Amone went close on two occasions with Alan Hadcroft and Keiron Purtill making try saving tackles. Home centre Martin Law was also sent clear by Handley only to be brought back for a forward pass.
Despite their early pressure Featherstone could only register a penalty from the boot of Rooney.
Leigh almost had the first try of the game in the 19th minute when a bone-shaking tackle from Purtill dislodged the ball deep in the Featherstone half and Radney Bowker combined with Ken Kerr to send Paul Wingfield in at the corner. As the Leigh fans celebrated the referee consulted his touch judge and disallowed the score.
Ian Millward then produced his ace card and brought Mick Higham from the bench into the hooking role. This had an almost immediate effect as the young hooker created space and sent the supporting Stuart Donlan over for a converted try in the 24th minute.
Rooney added another penalty before the tricky halfback carved through the defence with a 15 metre arcing run to put Rovers in front.
The Centurions hit back just before the break when Bowker supported Heath Cruckshank's wide running to cross by the posts. Wingfield's conversion gave Leigh an unlikely 12-8 lead.
Missing the influences of Okesene and Amone at the start of the second half, Featherstone were penned in their own territory. Leigh took full advantage in the opening 10 minutes, Purtill was denied a try on the intervention of the touch judge before Bowker grabbed his second try from a Paul Anderson break. The former Saint was also heavily involved in the next scoring move, Wingfield adding the finish to a Kerr offload. The winger converted both tries.
Featherstone replied quickly with Heptinstall darting over from a play the ball after a good spell of pressure.
On the hour Leigh had a third try disallowed before the reintroduction of Okesene brought Rovers back into contention. The Centurions held Rovers at bay for 18 consecutive tackles but spirited Featherstone were unable to break the rearguard, despite the best efforts of hardworking skipper, Slater.
As the game entered the last 10 minutes, exciting winger Jamie Stokes broke away, only to be chased down by Donlan who then completed an equally important tackle on Chapman. With the visitors defence still stretched, Rooney showed vision and pace, chipping through for an opportunist try.
Surprisingly the half-back hooked his conversion attempt wide.
Leigh missed a field goal opportunity and had another charged down, but held on for arguably their most important victory of the season.
Featherstone Rovers: 18
Threequarters: Bramald, Stokes, Law, Coventry, Horsley
Half-backs: Handley, Rooney
Forwards: Okesene, Chapman, Clarkson, Evans, Amone, Slater
Substitutes: Padgett, Lowe, Heptinstall, Dickens
Tries (Mins in brackets)
Rooney (35, 72), Heptinstall (53)
Goals: Rooney 3 (from 5)
were Defeated by
Leigh Centurions: 24
Threequarters: Donlan, Wingfield, Hadcroft, Kerr, Ingram
Half-backs: Bowker, Purtill
Forwards: Street, Arkwright, Whittle, Anderson, Cruickshank, Kennedy
Substitutes: Higham, Pucill, Patel, Norman
Tries: (Mins in brackets)
Donlan (24), Bowker (39, 44), Wingfield (50)
Goals: Wingfield 4 (from 4)
Half-time: 12-8 to Leigh.
Attendance: 2145 @ Lionheart Stadium (aka Post Office Road), Featherstone.
Gamestars:
Featherstone: Rooney / Slater - Scrum-half / Loose forward
Leigh: Purtill / Cruickshank - Scrum-half / Second-row forward
By Dave Parkinson
Back in March, Leigh ground out an important 16-12 home victory over Rovers, a result that contributed to the downfall of then Featherstone coach, Kevin Hobbs.
Four months on this was a key game for both sides, Leigh needed a win to maintain second spot while Featherstone were looking to force their way into the top five after going eight matches unbeaten with impressive wins over Oldham, Barrow and Widnes in the sequence. Leigh named a side that was a little short on preparation due to a flu virus in the camp.
Rovers largest home crowd of the season witnessed an exciting and full blooded game of Rugby League in which both scrum-halves were instrumental. An apprehensive opening by both teams set the tone before Rovers gained the upper hand. Okesene and Amone went close on two occasions with Alan Hadcroft and Keiron Purtill making try saving tackles. Home centre Martin Law was also sent clear by Handley only to be brought back for a forward pass.
Despite their early pressure Featherstone could only register a penalty from the boot of Rooney.
Leigh almost had the first try of the game in the 19th minute when a bone-shaking tackle from Purtill dislodged the ball deep in the Featherstone half and Radney Bowker combined with Ken Kerr to send Paul Wingfield in at the corner. As the Leigh fans celebrated the referee consulted his touch judge and disallowed the score.
Ian Millward then produced his ace card and brought Mick Higham from the bench into the hooking role. This had an almost immediate effect as the young hooker created space and sent the supporting Stuart Donlan over for a converted try in the 24th minute.
Rooney added another penalty before the tricky halfback carved through the defence with a 15 metre arcing run to put Rovers in front.
The Centurions hit back just before the break when Bowker supported Heath Cruckshank's wide running to cross by the posts. Wingfield's conversion gave Leigh an unlikely 12-8 lead.
Missing the influences of Okesene and Amone at the start of the second half, Featherstone were penned in their own territory. Leigh took full advantage in the opening 10 minutes, Purtill was denied a try on the intervention of the touch judge before Bowker grabbed his second try from a Paul Anderson break. The former Saint was also heavily involved in the next scoring move, Wingfield adding the finish to a Kerr offload. The winger converted both tries.
Featherstone replied quickly with Heptinstall darting over from a play the ball after a good spell of pressure.
On the hour Leigh had a third try disallowed before the reintroduction of Okesene brought Rovers back into contention. The Centurions held Rovers at bay for 18 consecutive tackles but spirited Featherstone were unable to break the rearguard, despite the best efforts of hardworking skipper, Slater.
As the game entered the last 10 minutes, exciting winger Jamie Stokes broke away, only to be chased down by Donlan who then completed an equally important tackle on Chapman. With the visitors defence still stretched, Rooney showed vision and pace, chipping through for an opportunist try.
Surprisingly the half-back hooked his conversion attempt wide.
Leigh missed a field goal opportunity and had another charged down, but held on for arguably their most important victory of the season.
Featherstone Rovers: 18
Threequarters: Bramald, Stokes, Law, Coventry, Horsley
Half-backs: Handley, Rooney
Forwards: Okesene, Chapman, Clarkson, Evans, Amone, Slater
Substitutes: Padgett, Lowe, Heptinstall, Dickens
Tries (Mins in brackets)
Rooney (35, 72), Heptinstall (53)
Goals: Rooney 3 (from 5)
were Defeated by
Leigh Centurions: 24
Threequarters: Donlan, Wingfield, Hadcroft, Kerr, Ingram
Half-backs: Bowker, Purtill
Forwards: Street, Arkwright, Whittle, Anderson, Cruickshank, Kennedy
Substitutes: Higham, Pucill, Patel, Norman
Tries: (Mins in brackets)
Donlan (24), Bowker (39, 44), Wingfield (50)
Goals: Wingfield 4 (from 4)
Half-time: 12-8 to Leigh.
Attendance: 2145 @ Lionheart Stadium (aka Post Office Road), Featherstone.
Gamestars:
Featherstone: Rooney / Slater - Scrum-half / Loose forward
Leigh: Purtill / Cruickshank - Scrum-half / Second-row forward
1999 Season Reports: July LEIGH CENTURIONS 34 ROCHDALE HORNETS 20
NFP Rd 21 LEIGH CENTURIONS 34 ROCHDALE HORNETS 20
By Dave Parkinson
A sunbaked crowd saw a sparkling first half of attacking rugby that set Leigh on their way before a spirited Hornets lifted their game in the second half.
18 year old hooker Mike Higham, making his first start for the Centurions and Paul Anderson, a recent loan recruit from Sheffield contributed fully to the game with a try apiece.
The Centurions made a slow start, falling behind to an early penalty from Rochdale halfback Winrow.
Within minutes Leigh went in front when Keiron Purtill sent David Whittle over from a tap-penalty. Phil Kendrick converted before another penalty from Winrow reduced the arrears to just two points.
A neat move down the right wing by former Salford centre Coussons put Eyres clear, only for a tackle by Stuart Donlan and Alan Hadcroft to put the winger over the sideline. From the scrum Leigh worked the ball wide. With the defence still unsettled Higham fed Heath Cruckshank who charged 40 metres and offloaded for Kendrick to outpace the cover and cross by the posts.
Surprisingly, Kendrick missed the kick.
10-4 quickly became 22-4 as Higham ended a freeflowing move and Anderson showed his speed following smart distribution from Radney Bowker.
Hornets almost registered tries when Bunce was bundled out of play in the corner and his impressive centre Cooper was pulled back for a forward pass in another move.
Just before half-time, Rochdale were reduced to 12 men when full-back Bradbury was sinbinned for holding down. Leigh spurned the opportunity of two points and switched play right before Purtill took the ball down the left and Bowker's swerve opened the visitors defence. Kendrick converted and Leigh were cruising at 28-4.
Rochdale started the second half well with prominent charges from Matty Knowles and Danny Sculthorpe before Aston punished slack defence from a tap penalty.
Leigh seemed flat after the double halftime substitution of Higham and Purtill.
The Hornets continued to press, Bunce was again denied by a forward pass while at the other end Donlan had a similar effort disqualified after an inside pass by Murray.
It was left to home skipper, Jamie Kennedy, an industrious performer, to put the result beyond doubt, taking a great pass from Safraz Patel to stride over.
Kendrick added his 5th goal of the game before a late charge from the Hornets resulted in tries to substitute Hudson and hardworking scrum half Kelly.
This result helped Leigh move into 2nd spot again following Hull KR's defeat of Hunslet.
Leigh Centurions: 34
Tries: Whittle, Kendrick, Higham, Anderson, Bowker, Kennedy.
Goals: Kendrick 5 (from 6).
Backs: Donlan, Ingram, Hadcroft, Kendrick, Arkwright.
Halfbacks: Bowker, Purtill
Forwards: Street, Higham, Whittle, Anderson, Cruickshank, Kennedy
Subs: Murray, Halliwell, Patel, Pucill
Defeated
Rochdale Hornets: 20
Tries: Aston, Hudson, Kelly
Goals: Winrow 4 (from 5).
Backs: Bradbury, Eyres, Coussons, Cooper, Bunce
Halfbacks: Winrow, Kelly
Forwards: Knowles, Stephenson, Sculthorpe, Aston, McKinney, Newell.
Subs: Hudson, Marsh, Coult, Robinson.
Attendance: 1568 @ Hilton Park, Leigh.
Gamestars:
Leigh: Kennedy / Higham - Loose Forward / Hooker
Rochdale: Knowles / Cooper - Prop / Centre
By Dave Parkinson
A sunbaked crowd saw a sparkling first half of attacking rugby that set Leigh on their way before a spirited Hornets lifted their game in the second half.
18 year old hooker Mike Higham, making his first start for the Centurions and Paul Anderson, a recent loan recruit from Sheffield contributed fully to the game with a try apiece.
The Centurions made a slow start, falling behind to an early penalty from Rochdale halfback Winrow.
Within minutes Leigh went in front when Keiron Purtill sent David Whittle over from a tap-penalty. Phil Kendrick converted before another penalty from Winrow reduced the arrears to just two points.
A neat move down the right wing by former Salford centre Coussons put Eyres clear, only for a tackle by Stuart Donlan and Alan Hadcroft to put the winger over the sideline. From the scrum Leigh worked the ball wide. With the defence still unsettled Higham fed Heath Cruckshank who charged 40 metres and offloaded for Kendrick to outpace the cover and cross by the posts.
Surprisingly, Kendrick missed the kick.
10-4 quickly became 22-4 as Higham ended a freeflowing move and Anderson showed his speed following smart distribution from Radney Bowker.
Hornets almost registered tries when Bunce was bundled out of play in the corner and his impressive centre Cooper was pulled back for a forward pass in another move.
Just before half-time, Rochdale were reduced to 12 men when full-back Bradbury was sinbinned for holding down. Leigh spurned the opportunity of two points and switched play right before Purtill took the ball down the left and Bowker's swerve opened the visitors defence. Kendrick converted and Leigh were cruising at 28-4.
Rochdale started the second half well with prominent charges from Matty Knowles and Danny Sculthorpe before Aston punished slack defence from a tap penalty.
Leigh seemed flat after the double halftime substitution of Higham and Purtill.
The Hornets continued to press, Bunce was again denied by a forward pass while at the other end Donlan had a similar effort disqualified after an inside pass by Murray.
It was left to home skipper, Jamie Kennedy, an industrious performer, to put the result beyond doubt, taking a great pass from Safraz Patel to stride over.
Kendrick added his 5th goal of the game before a late charge from the Hornets resulted in tries to substitute Hudson and hardworking scrum half Kelly.
This result helped Leigh move into 2nd spot again following Hull KR's defeat of Hunslet.
Leigh Centurions: 34
Tries: Whittle, Kendrick, Higham, Anderson, Bowker, Kennedy.
Goals: Kendrick 5 (from 6).
Backs: Donlan, Ingram, Hadcroft, Kendrick, Arkwright.
Halfbacks: Bowker, Purtill
Forwards: Street, Higham, Whittle, Anderson, Cruickshank, Kennedy
Subs: Murray, Halliwell, Patel, Pucill
Defeated
Rochdale Hornets: 20
Tries: Aston, Hudson, Kelly
Goals: Winrow 4 (from 5).
Backs: Bradbury, Eyres, Coussons, Cooper, Bunce
Halfbacks: Winrow, Kelly
Forwards: Knowles, Stephenson, Sculthorpe, Aston, McKinney, Newell.
Subs: Hudson, Marsh, Coult, Robinson.
Attendance: 1568 @ Hilton Park, Leigh.
Gamestars:
Leigh: Kennedy / Higham - Loose Forward / Hooker
Rochdale: Knowles / Cooper - Prop / Centre
1999 Season Reports: July: WHITEHAVEN 22 LEIGH 16
NFP RD 20 WHITEHAVEN WARRIORS 22 LEIGH CENTURIONS 16
By Dave Parkinson
A determined Warriors side brought an abrupt halt to Leigh's four game winning run with a last gasp victory before a vocal crowd at The Recreation Ground.
Despite missing scrum-half and organiser Leroy Joe due to suspension and skipper Dave Seeds with injury, Whitehaven turned in one of their best displays of the season with Lee Kiddie an influential figure at stand-off and Craig Chambers an eager worker in the pack.
Both teams started apprehensively with Wingfield and Hetherington swapping missed penalty attempts before Kiddie broke the deadlock with an 18th minute touch down, slicing through a static defence from 15 metres. Hetherington converted via the upright.
Leigh replied 6 minutes later when good approach play from Alan Hadcroft and Keiron Purtill saw Safraz Patel dive under the posts for a converted try.
The Centurions pinned the home side deep in their own half with a good spell of pressure before Haven hooker Aaron Lester was sin-binned for a late tackle after Purtill had kicked the ball.
Leigh made their advantage count two minutes later when a planned move from the scrumbase led to scrum-half Purtill darting over in the corner. The Cumbrians were quick to reply when a towering crossfield bomb from Kiddie forced a scrum and former Workington halfback Wayne Kitchen scampered
over. Hetherington again hit the post but his attempt bounced away.
Just before the break Leigh almost imploded when Jame Arkwright fielded an innocuous kick and threw a terrible pass across his own goal face that was fumbled by the usually safe Donlan. As Whitehaven went to
pack down the half-time whistle went and the game was locked at 10-10.
Whitehaven then took the lead in the 55th minute with a penalty before Anthony Murray was sent off for an illegal challenge on kicker Wesley Wilson.
Despite having to alter their pattern with injuries to Nick Jenkins and Patel (and the sending off), Leigh almost took the lead but Dave Ingram failed to collect a pass from Purtill following a storming midfield break by Street.
Ingram bombed a second chance when bundled into touch before it was third time lucky for the Leigh centre in the 68th minute, taking the scoring pass from the in form Purtill.
A moment earlier Whitehaven were again reduced to 12 men with Lewthwaite sin-binned for holding down.
The Warriors piled forward, determined to avenge their narrow loss to the Centurions earlier in the season. Wilson reaped the rewards, snatching the ball from Burrows to cross in the corner for a 79th minute try. Hetherington missed the kick and the game looked destined for a draw.
Whitehaven had other ideas and were awarded a scrum on half-way after a fumbled Leigh penalty. Kiddie spotted all the defenders close to the scrum and launched a deep kick for his backline to chase.
Mark Burrows looked to be in control of the situation but the winger could only look on in horror as he parried the deceiving bounce into the grateful arms of Lewthwaite, making up for his earlier indiscretion with the matchwinning try. Hetherington converted from the touchline to send the Haven fans home delighted.
Whitehaven Warriors: 22
Threequarters: Wilson, Frazer, K. Hetherington, Lynch, Lewthwaite,
Halfbacks: Kiddie, Kitchin
Forwards: Cox, Lester, Fatialofa, Chambers, Morton, Bone
Subs: Purdham, Walsh, G. Hetherington, Suafoa
Tries: (Mins in brackets)
Kiddie (18), Kitchin (38), Wilson (79), Lewthwaite (80).
Goals: G Hetherington 3 (from 5)
Defeated
Leigh Centurions: 16
Threequarters: Donlan, Wingfield, Hadcroft, Ingram, Arkwright
Halfbacks: Patel, Purtill
Forwards: Street, Jenkins, Whittle, Kendrick, Cruickshank, Kennedy
Subs: Murray, Pucill, Burrows, Liku
Tries: (Mins in brackets)
Patel (24), Purtill (34), Ingram (68)
Goals: Wingfield 2 (from 5)
Halftime: 10-10
Attendance: 953 @ The Recreation Ground, Whitehaven.
Gamestars:
Whitehaven: Kiddie / Chambers.
Leigh: Purtill / Street.
By Dave Parkinson
A determined Warriors side brought an abrupt halt to Leigh's four game winning run with a last gasp victory before a vocal crowd at The Recreation Ground.
Despite missing scrum-half and organiser Leroy Joe due to suspension and skipper Dave Seeds with injury, Whitehaven turned in one of their best displays of the season with Lee Kiddie an influential figure at stand-off and Craig Chambers an eager worker in the pack.
Both teams started apprehensively with Wingfield and Hetherington swapping missed penalty attempts before Kiddie broke the deadlock with an 18th minute touch down, slicing through a static defence from 15 metres. Hetherington converted via the upright.
Leigh replied 6 minutes later when good approach play from Alan Hadcroft and Keiron Purtill saw Safraz Patel dive under the posts for a converted try.
The Centurions pinned the home side deep in their own half with a good spell of pressure before Haven hooker Aaron Lester was sin-binned for a late tackle after Purtill had kicked the ball.
Leigh made their advantage count two minutes later when a planned move from the scrumbase led to scrum-half Purtill darting over in the corner. The Cumbrians were quick to reply when a towering crossfield bomb from Kiddie forced a scrum and former Workington halfback Wayne Kitchen scampered
over. Hetherington again hit the post but his attempt bounced away.
Just before the break Leigh almost imploded when Jame Arkwright fielded an innocuous kick and threw a terrible pass across his own goal face that was fumbled by the usually safe Donlan. As Whitehaven went to
pack down the half-time whistle went and the game was locked at 10-10.
Whitehaven then took the lead in the 55th minute with a penalty before Anthony Murray was sent off for an illegal challenge on kicker Wesley Wilson.
Despite having to alter their pattern with injuries to Nick Jenkins and Patel (and the sending off), Leigh almost took the lead but Dave Ingram failed to collect a pass from Purtill following a storming midfield break by Street.
Ingram bombed a second chance when bundled into touch before it was third time lucky for the Leigh centre in the 68th minute, taking the scoring pass from the in form Purtill.
A moment earlier Whitehaven were again reduced to 12 men with Lewthwaite sin-binned for holding down.
The Warriors piled forward, determined to avenge their narrow loss to the Centurions earlier in the season. Wilson reaped the rewards, snatching the ball from Burrows to cross in the corner for a 79th minute try. Hetherington missed the kick and the game looked destined for a draw.
Whitehaven had other ideas and were awarded a scrum on half-way after a fumbled Leigh penalty. Kiddie spotted all the defenders close to the scrum and launched a deep kick for his backline to chase.
Mark Burrows looked to be in control of the situation but the winger could only look on in horror as he parried the deceiving bounce into the grateful arms of Lewthwaite, making up for his earlier indiscretion with the matchwinning try. Hetherington converted from the touchline to send the Haven fans home delighted.
Whitehaven Warriors: 22
Threequarters: Wilson, Frazer, K. Hetherington, Lynch, Lewthwaite,
Halfbacks: Kiddie, Kitchin
Forwards: Cox, Lester, Fatialofa, Chambers, Morton, Bone
Subs: Purdham, Walsh, G. Hetherington, Suafoa
Tries: (Mins in brackets)
Kiddie (18), Kitchin (38), Wilson (79), Lewthwaite (80).
Goals: G Hetherington 3 (from 5)
Defeated
Leigh Centurions: 16
Threequarters: Donlan, Wingfield, Hadcroft, Ingram, Arkwright
Halfbacks: Patel, Purtill
Forwards: Street, Jenkins, Whittle, Kendrick, Cruickshank, Kennedy
Subs: Murray, Pucill, Burrows, Liku
Tries: (Mins in brackets)
Patel (24), Purtill (34), Ingram (68)
Goals: Wingfield 2 (from 5)
Halftime: 10-10
Attendance: 953 @ The Recreation Ground, Whitehaven.
Gamestars:
Whitehaven: Kiddie / Chambers.
Leigh: Purtill / Street.
1999 Season Reports: June: LEIGH CENTURIONS 24 DEWSBURY RAMS 10
NFP Rd 19 LEIGH CENTURIONS 24 DEWSBURY RAMS 10
By Dave Parkinson
Close games seem to be commonplace at Hilton Park these days, a stark contrast to 1998 when Dewsbury inflicted a record 18-54 home defeat on the Centurions.
Leigh came into the game on the back of a three game winning streak but were hit early in the week by injury, 15 try captain Andy Fairclough was ruled out for 8 weeks with a dislocated shoulder. Another couple of knocks saw Ian Millward start the game with three of his substitutes, much to the disgust of Dewsbury's Neil Kelly.
Dewsbury Rams were looking to regain a little momentum after their title challenge faltered following recent losses to Widnes and Rochdale.
Both sides made a determined start but it was Leigh who gained the early advantage in the eleventh minute when Paul Wingfield added his first goal of the afternoon after the visitors were caught offside.
Two minutes later a clearing kick from Keiron Purtill was fumbled by Dewsbury winger Wood giving Leigh possession from the scrum. Two tackles later, a clever kick from Purtill unlocked the Rams defence and James Arkwright sped through to touch down.
Mistakes by the home side gifted Dewsbury a lot of possession inside Leigh territory but halfbacks Eaton and Agar were unable to capitalise as punishing defence by that man Purtill prevented two scores.
The Rams best chance of the half came when Flynn powered through and chipped over the advancing Tim Street, only for the ball to defeat everyone and roll dead in the 27th minute.
Dewsbury centre Brendan O'Meara was sinbinned for disputing an incident earlier in the move. but Alan Hadcroft evened things up when he received a yellow card three minutes later for an over enthusiastic tackle on Rams skipper Williams.
A further loss of composure by Dewsbury saw loose forward Wood sinbinned just before the break and Wingfield increased the home lead to 10-0 with two penalties.
The Rams made a great start to the second half when two penalties in five minutes brought them within six points of Leigh. Paul Wingfield missed a drop goal attempt before the exciting Godfrey raced forty metres after good work by Williams.
Barry Eaton converted from the touchline to tie the scores as Dewsbury seemed to take a strangle hold on the game while Richard Agar tormented Arkwright then Wingfield with 40-20 kicks.
Leigh's scrambling defence held firm before a 62nd minute penalty by Wingfield edged the Centurions ahead. As the half wore on, Dewsbury seemed to fade slightly despite the best efforts of Flynn and Medley.
It was Anthony Murray, so often a pivotal figure for Leigh this season, who turned the game with a crucial 75th minute score after good approach play by Purtill and Street.
A 35 metre break by Godfrey kept Leigh on their toes as Donlan was forced to make a try saving cover tackle. Leigh were not to be denied and finished strongly when a charge by Pucill set the position for Phil Kendrick to score and present Wingfield with his 6th and final goal of the day.
Leigh Centurions - 24
Tries (Minutes in Brackets)
Arkwright (13), Murray (75), Kendrick (81)
Goals: Wingfield 6 (from7)
Defeated
Dewsbury Rams - 10
Tries (Minutes in Brackets)
Godfrey (56)
Goals: Eaton 3 (from 3)
Half time: 10 - 0 to Leigh
Attendance : 2049
Game Stars
Leigh:
Purtill / Street (Scrum half / Prop forward)
Dewsbury:
Agar / Flynn ( Stand off / Second Row forward)
By Dave Parkinson
Close games seem to be commonplace at Hilton Park these days, a stark contrast to 1998 when Dewsbury inflicted a record 18-54 home defeat on the Centurions.
Leigh came into the game on the back of a three game winning streak but were hit early in the week by injury, 15 try captain Andy Fairclough was ruled out for 8 weeks with a dislocated shoulder. Another couple of knocks saw Ian Millward start the game with three of his substitutes, much to the disgust of Dewsbury's Neil Kelly.
Dewsbury Rams were looking to regain a little momentum after their title challenge faltered following recent losses to Widnes and Rochdale.
Both sides made a determined start but it was Leigh who gained the early advantage in the eleventh minute when Paul Wingfield added his first goal of the afternoon after the visitors were caught offside.
Two minutes later a clearing kick from Keiron Purtill was fumbled by Dewsbury winger Wood giving Leigh possession from the scrum. Two tackles later, a clever kick from Purtill unlocked the Rams defence and James Arkwright sped through to touch down.
Mistakes by the home side gifted Dewsbury a lot of possession inside Leigh territory but halfbacks Eaton and Agar were unable to capitalise as punishing defence by that man Purtill prevented two scores.
The Rams best chance of the half came when Flynn powered through and chipped over the advancing Tim Street, only for the ball to defeat everyone and roll dead in the 27th minute.
Dewsbury centre Brendan O'Meara was sinbinned for disputing an incident earlier in the move. but Alan Hadcroft evened things up when he received a yellow card three minutes later for an over enthusiastic tackle on Rams skipper Williams.
A further loss of composure by Dewsbury saw loose forward Wood sinbinned just before the break and Wingfield increased the home lead to 10-0 with two penalties.
The Rams made a great start to the second half when two penalties in five minutes brought them within six points of Leigh. Paul Wingfield missed a drop goal attempt before the exciting Godfrey raced forty metres after good work by Williams.
Barry Eaton converted from the touchline to tie the scores as Dewsbury seemed to take a strangle hold on the game while Richard Agar tormented Arkwright then Wingfield with 40-20 kicks.
Leigh's scrambling defence held firm before a 62nd minute penalty by Wingfield edged the Centurions ahead. As the half wore on, Dewsbury seemed to fade slightly despite the best efforts of Flynn and Medley.
It was Anthony Murray, so often a pivotal figure for Leigh this season, who turned the game with a crucial 75th minute score after good approach play by Purtill and Street.
A 35 metre break by Godfrey kept Leigh on their toes as Donlan was forced to make a try saving cover tackle. Leigh were not to be denied and finished strongly when a charge by Pucill set the position for Phil Kendrick to score and present Wingfield with his 6th and final goal of the day.
Leigh Centurions - 24
Tries (Minutes in Brackets)
Arkwright (13), Murray (75), Kendrick (81)
Goals: Wingfield 6 (from7)
Defeated
Dewsbury Rams - 10
Tries (Minutes in Brackets)
Godfrey (56)
Goals: Eaton 3 (from 3)
Half time: 10 - 0 to Leigh
Attendance : 2049
Game Stars
Leigh:
Purtill / Street (Scrum half / Prop forward)
Dewsbury:
Agar / Flynn ( Stand off / Second Row forward)
1999 Season Reports: June: York Wasps 12 Leigh Centurions 14
NFP RD 18: YORK 12 LEIGH 14
By Dave Parkinson
An often scrappy and untidy encounter saw the York Wasps slip to a second consecutive home defeat, despite having the better of play for long spells and a dominant young scrum-half.
Darren Callaghan with just half a season of top grade experience was a constant threat to the visitors line and easily picked up the home man of the match award with a halfback display that bodes well for the Wasps.
Leigh by contrast played their "Get out of gaol" card and, for a second time this season, just managed to hold off an enthusiastic York challenge.
An opening quarter punctuated with penalties set the tone for the game as the physical Wasps interupted the visitors game pattern with a succession of crunching tackles that tried the patience of referee Shaw.
Leigh props Dave Whittle and Tim Street were warned and Wasps hooker Pallister was placed on report for an alleged high tackle in the first ten minutes.
Phil Kendrick kicked Leigh into an early lead with two penalties before Heath Cruckshank twisted over from close range in the 13th minute. Jamie Benn made the score 8-2 with a well struck penalty before Pallister was dispatched to the sin-bin for a second high tackle on Stuart Donlan. Kendrick missed the resulting penalty but was on target five minutes later following a further indiscretion from the home side.
Another penalty goal from Benn brought the Wasps within 6 points and they were level in the 36th minute following a fumble by Safraz Patel. Former Hull second row Paul Darley waltzed in after good work by Callaghan.
The game looked to be heading for 10-10 at the break but Kendrick missed touch from a penalty and York laid seige before Benn's fourth goal stung Leigh and gave his side a slender advantage.
In the second period defence was again prominent with Leigh fending off raids by Pallister, Callaghan and Austerfield. At the other end of the field David Ingram (twice), Cruckshank and Anthony Murray were stopped short and Ken Kerr bombed a great chance with a shocking pass to Alan Hadcroft.
York continued to soak up pressure and looked comfortable until a mistake deep in their own quarter gave Leigh a chance from the scrum. Cruckshank and Purtill combined to send Hadcroft searing in at the corner for a crucial 57th minute touchdown.
Benn was presented with a chance to equalise in the 65th minute but swung his penalty attempt wide.
As the game entered stoppage time a booming 40-20 kick gave York a final chance but good defence by the in-form Hadcroft put his opposite number into touch by the corner flag with a gamebreaking play.
York Wasps - 12
Tries: (minutes in brackets)
Darley (36)
Goals: Benn 4 (from 5)
Leigh Centurions - 14
Tries: (minutes in brackets)
Cruickshank (13), Hadcroft (57)
Goals: Kendrick 3 (from 6)
Half-time - York led 12-10 -
Attendance : 1147 @ Huntington Stadium, York.
Game Stars:
York: Austerfield / Callaghan = Centre / Scrum-half
Leigh: Hadcroft / Murray = Winger / Hooker
By Dave Parkinson
An often scrappy and untidy encounter saw the York Wasps slip to a second consecutive home defeat, despite having the better of play for long spells and a dominant young scrum-half.
Darren Callaghan with just half a season of top grade experience was a constant threat to the visitors line and easily picked up the home man of the match award with a halfback display that bodes well for the Wasps.
Leigh by contrast played their "Get out of gaol" card and, for a second time this season, just managed to hold off an enthusiastic York challenge.
An opening quarter punctuated with penalties set the tone for the game as the physical Wasps interupted the visitors game pattern with a succession of crunching tackles that tried the patience of referee Shaw.
Leigh props Dave Whittle and Tim Street were warned and Wasps hooker Pallister was placed on report for an alleged high tackle in the first ten minutes.
Phil Kendrick kicked Leigh into an early lead with two penalties before Heath Cruckshank twisted over from close range in the 13th minute. Jamie Benn made the score 8-2 with a well struck penalty before Pallister was dispatched to the sin-bin for a second high tackle on Stuart Donlan. Kendrick missed the resulting penalty but was on target five minutes later following a further indiscretion from the home side.
Another penalty goal from Benn brought the Wasps within 6 points and they were level in the 36th minute following a fumble by Safraz Patel. Former Hull second row Paul Darley waltzed in after good work by Callaghan.
The game looked to be heading for 10-10 at the break but Kendrick missed touch from a penalty and York laid seige before Benn's fourth goal stung Leigh and gave his side a slender advantage.
In the second period defence was again prominent with Leigh fending off raids by Pallister, Callaghan and Austerfield. At the other end of the field David Ingram (twice), Cruckshank and Anthony Murray were stopped short and Ken Kerr bombed a great chance with a shocking pass to Alan Hadcroft.
York continued to soak up pressure and looked comfortable until a mistake deep in their own quarter gave Leigh a chance from the scrum. Cruckshank and Purtill combined to send Hadcroft searing in at the corner for a crucial 57th minute touchdown.
Benn was presented with a chance to equalise in the 65th minute but swung his penalty attempt wide.
As the game entered stoppage time a booming 40-20 kick gave York a final chance but good defence by the in-form Hadcroft put his opposite number into touch by the corner flag with a gamebreaking play.
York Wasps - 12
Tries: (minutes in brackets)
Darley (36)
Goals: Benn 4 (from 5)
Leigh Centurions - 14
Tries: (minutes in brackets)
Cruickshank (13), Hadcroft (57)
Goals: Kendrick 3 (from 6)
Half-time - York led 12-10 -
Attendance : 1147 @ Huntington Stadium, York.
Game Stars:
York: Austerfield / Callaghan = Centre / Scrum-half
Leigh: Hadcroft / Murray = Winger / Hooker
1999 Season Reports: June: BRAMLEY 8 LEIGH CENTURIONS 39
NFP RD 17: BRAMLEY 8 LEIGH 39
By Dave Parkinson
A brave display by twelve man Bramley, directed by former international halfbacks Garry Schofield and Mike Ford, failed to halt Leigh's charge before a sparse crowd at Headingley.
The 37th minute dismissal of Anthony Gibbons following a high tackle on replacement hooker Murray turned the game in the visitors favour after Bramley's centre had earlier squared the game at 4-4.
The Centurions began the game in confident fashion when captain Fairclough crossed for his 15th of the season after just three minutes.
Bramley were soon on level terms when a flowing Leigh passing movement was adjudged forward and Ford and Schofield pushed the ball wide from the scrum which allowed Gibbons the room he needed.
Breaks from impressive fullback Mark Sibson put Leigh on the back foot before Purtill hoisted a towering crossfield kick that was palmed back by Hadcroft. Kennedy did well to control the ball, Hadcroft was again involved and Kerr dived over for his second try in Leigh colours.
The left wing trio of Kennedy, Kerr and Hadcroft were at the heart of Leigh's third try before Kerr repaid the favour and sent Hadcroft in at the corner.
Kendrick missed the conversion and a long range penalty attempt before Gibbon's sending off gave him the first of five goals.
Another penalty on the stroke of half-time gave the Leigh centre an easy opportunity to put twelve points between the sides at the break.
Bramley made an enthusiastic opening to the second period as Donlan twice made try-saving tackles on Freeman and O'Reilly.
Leigh weathered the storm and produced an excellent counter-attack over 50 metres involving Bowker and Kerr that led to Hadcroft giving Kennedy the try-scoring pass. Kendrick's conversion made the score 22-4 but Bramley were rewarded for a spell of pressure when former Hull forward Mae David scored in the corner.
Leigh hit back with a second try from Hadcroft before a 66th minute field goal from Keiron Purtill put the game beyond Bramley at 29-8.
In the final ten minutes the Villagers tired defence was breached twice more. A rare scrum win against the feed put Leigh in good field position and a neat inside pass from Purtill saw David Whittle touch down beneath the posts. The biggest cheer of the night was reserved for substitute prop Andy Pucill when he carried two men over in a 10 metre run of strength and determination.
Kendrick missed the conversion but coach Ian Millward could be pleased his side were league leaders for at least 48 hours.
Played 11/06/99
Bramley = 8
Tries (minutes in brackets)
A Gibbons (6), David (61)
Goals: Sibson 0 (from 2)
Lost to
Leigh Centurions = 39
Tries (minutes in brackets)
Fairclough (3), Kerr (21), Hadcroft (29, 63), Kennedy (52), Whittle (71), Pucill (73).
Goals: Kendrick 5 (from 9).
Field Goal: Purtill 1
HT = 4-16
FT = 8-39
Attendance : 679 @ Headingley Stadium, Leeds
Starmen:
Bramley: Schofield / Ford (stand-off / scrum-half)
Leigh: Pucill / Purtill (substitute prop / scrum half)
By Dave Parkinson
A brave display by twelve man Bramley, directed by former international halfbacks Garry Schofield and Mike Ford, failed to halt Leigh's charge before a sparse crowd at Headingley.
The 37th minute dismissal of Anthony Gibbons following a high tackle on replacement hooker Murray turned the game in the visitors favour after Bramley's centre had earlier squared the game at 4-4.
The Centurions began the game in confident fashion when captain Fairclough crossed for his 15th of the season after just three minutes.
Bramley were soon on level terms when a flowing Leigh passing movement was adjudged forward and Ford and Schofield pushed the ball wide from the scrum which allowed Gibbons the room he needed.
Breaks from impressive fullback Mark Sibson put Leigh on the back foot before Purtill hoisted a towering crossfield kick that was palmed back by Hadcroft. Kennedy did well to control the ball, Hadcroft was again involved and Kerr dived over for his second try in Leigh colours.
The left wing trio of Kennedy, Kerr and Hadcroft were at the heart of Leigh's third try before Kerr repaid the favour and sent Hadcroft in at the corner.
Kendrick missed the conversion and a long range penalty attempt before Gibbon's sending off gave him the first of five goals.
Another penalty on the stroke of half-time gave the Leigh centre an easy opportunity to put twelve points between the sides at the break.
Bramley made an enthusiastic opening to the second period as Donlan twice made try-saving tackles on Freeman and O'Reilly.
Leigh weathered the storm and produced an excellent counter-attack over 50 metres involving Bowker and Kerr that led to Hadcroft giving Kennedy the try-scoring pass. Kendrick's conversion made the score 22-4 but Bramley were rewarded for a spell of pressure when former Hull forward Mae David scored in the corner.
Leigh hit back with a second try from Hadcroft before a 66th minute field goal from Keiron Purtill put the game beyond Bramley at 29-8.
In the final ten minutes the Villagers tired defence was breached twice more. A rare scrum win against the feed put Leigh in good field position and a neat inside pass from Purtill saw David Whittle touch down beneath the posts. The biggest cheer of the night was reserved for substitute prop Andy Pucill when he carried two men over in a 10 metre run of strength and determination.
Kendrick missed the conversion but coach Ian Millward could be pleased his side were league leaders for at least 48 hours.
Played 11/06/99
Bramley = 8
Tries (minutes in brackets)
A Gibbons (6), David (61)
Goals: Sibson 0 (from 2)
Lost to
Leigh Centurions = 39
Tries (minutes in brackets)
Fairclough (3), Kerr (21), Hadcroft (29, 63), Kennedy (52), Whittle (71), Pucill (73).
Goals: Kendrick 5 (from 9).
Field Goal: Purtill 1
HT = 4-16
FT = 8-39
Attendance : 679 @ Headingley Stadium, Leeds
Starmen:
Bramley: Schofield / Ford (stand-off / scrum-half)
Leigh: Pucill / Purtill (substitute prop / scrum half)
Friday 8 January 2010
1999 Season Reports: June: LEIGH 72 DONCASTER 6
NFP RD 16: Leigh 72 Doncaster 6
By DAVE PARKINSON
Troubled Doncaster rolled into Leigh hoping to put the clubs problems behind them. By full time however, a polished attacking display from the Centurions had yielded 13 tries and a 72-6 defeat for the Dragons, their heaviest defeat at Leigh for almost 25 years.
Despite resistance from Lee Maher, Chris Watson and Tony Miller, the pattern for the afternoon was already etched after a blistering opening quarter saw the home side race into a 20-0 lead.
The Centurions began confidently and went over for the games first try after just three minutes when former Doncaster centre Ken Kerr put Alan Hadcroft over by the corner flag.
Nick Jenkins, making a rare first team start, scored Leigh's second try following a fumbled kick through.
Kerr then turned from try provider to scorer, crossing on his debut from a deft Kennedy pass. By the 17th minute, Leigh were rampant as Safraz Patel supported a Hadcroft burst down the left touchline.
Doncaster posted their only points of the game when Street had a try disallowed and a startling midfield break from stand-off Kieran Allen was supported by winger Craig Moore who touched down under the posts, Maher tagged on the conversion.
Further pressure from Leigh resulted in tries from Patel and James Arkwright, both goaled by Phil Kendrick to give the home side a 32-6 halftime lead.
Leigh started the second period sharply. Substitute Anthony Murray scored the first of his brace, scooting to the line after good build-up by Kendrick with just 6 minutes of the half gone. A 50th minute try from Ingram stretched an over worked defence after Maher was sinbinned for dissent and Leigh took full advantage with further tries from Kendrick (following a five man raid) and Andy Fairclough (from the scrum base).
Doncaster went close following a big kick and chase from a scrum but the Centurion cover defence held firm.
Leigh remained focused and were rewarded in the final ten minutes with a further three converted tries.
Arkwright capped a good display with his second try from a Murray pass on 71 minutes. Substitute Darren Hall (a potent strikeforce in amateur competition with 42 tries last season) started the move that led to Ingram going under the posts for his second while Murray had the final say as Arkwright's midfield break created space before the fullback repaid Murray with a well timed pass. Ingram added his third conversion to close the game and move Leigh back to second spot.
Leigh Centurions 72
Tries: (minutes in brackets)
Hadcroft (3), Jenkins (11), Kerr (14), Patel (17, 26), Arkwright (29, 71), Murray (46, 77), Ingram (50, 75), Kendrick (55), Fairclough (58)
Goals: Kendrick 7 (from 10), Ingram 3 (from 3).
Defeated
Doncaster Dragons 6
Tries: (minutes in brackets)
Moore (22)
Goals: Maher 1 (from 1).
Half-time: 32-6 to Leigh
Attendance: 1372 @ Hilton Park, Leigh.
Starmen
Leigh : Street: Despite being substituted on 62 minutes the rampaging runs and canny offloads of Leigh's power prop were too much for Doncaster to contain.
Cruckshank : The second row caused havoc out wide all afternoon.
Doncaster: Allen: The stand-off was the main thorn in Leigh's side, did his best to rally a tired looking team.
Miller: hardworking back row peformance from the Doncaster skipper.
By DAVE PARKINSON
Troubled Doncaster rolled into Leigh hoping to put the clubs problems behind them. By full time however, a polished attacking display from the Centurions had yielded 13 tries and a 72-6 defeat for the Dragons, their heaviest defeat at Leigh for almost 25 years.
Despite resistance from Lee Maher, Chris Watson and Tony Miller, the pattern for the afternoon was already etched after a blistering opening quarter saw the home side race into a 20-0 lead.
The Centurions began confidently and went over for the games first try after just three minutes when former Doncaster centre Ken Kerr put Alan Hadcroft over by the corner flag.
Nick Jenkins, making a rare first team start, scored Leigh's second try following a fumbled kick through.
Kerr then turned from try provider to scorer, crossing on his debut from a deft Kennedy pass. By the 17th minute, Leigh were rampant as Safraz Patel supported a Hadcroft burst down the left touchline.
Doncaster posted their only points of the game when Street had a try disallowed and a startling midfield break from stand-off Kieran Allen was supported by winger Craig Moore who touched down under the posts, Maher tagged on the conversion.
Further pressure from Leigh resulted in tries from Patel and James Arkwright, both goaled by Phil Kendrick to give the home side a 32-6 halftime lead.
Leigh started the second period sharply. Substitute Anthony Murray scored the first of his brace, scooting to the line after good build-up by Kendrick with just 6 minutes of the half gone. A 50th minute try from Ingram stretched an over worked defence after Maher was sinbinned for dissent and Leigh took full advantage with further tries from Kendrick (following a five man raid) and Andy Fairclough (from the scrum base).
Doncaster went close following a big kick and chase from a scrum but the Centurion cover defence held firm.
Leigh remained focused and were rewarded in the final ten minutes with a further three converted tries.
Arkwright capped a good display with his second try from a Murray pass on 71 minutes. Substitute Darren Hall (a potent strikeforce in amateur competition with 42 tries last season) started the move that led to Ingram going under the posts for his second while Murray had the final say as Arkwright's midfield break created space before the fullback repaid Murray with a well timed pass. Ingram added his third conversion to close the game and move Leigh back to second spot.
Leigh Centurions 72
Tries: (minutes in brackets)
Hadcroft (3), Jenkins (11), Kerr (14), Patel (17, 26), Arkwright (29, 71), Murray (46, 77), Ingram (50, 75), Kendrick (55), Fairclough (58)
Goals: Kendrick 7 (from 10), Ingram 3 (from 3).
Defeated
Doncaster Dragons 6
Tries: (minutes in brackets)
Moore (22)
Goals: Maher 1 (from 1).
Half-time: 32-6 to Leigh
Attendance: 1372 @ Hilton Park, Leigh.
Starmen
Leigh : Street: Despite being substituted on 62 minutes the rampaging runs and canny offloads of Leigh's power prop were too much for Doncaster to contain.
Cruckshank : The second row caused havoc out wide all afternoon.
Doncaster: Allen: The stand-off was the main thorn in Leigh's side, did his best to rally a tired looking team.
Miller: hardworking back row peformance from the Doncaster skipper.
1999 Season Reports: May: HUNSLET HAWKS 35 LEIGH CENTURIONS 12
HUNSLET HAWKS 35 LEIGH CENTURIONS 12
By DAVE PARKINSON
Hunslet Hawks closed the gap on the top three to just two points with an important victory over Leigh Centurions at the South Leeds Stadium.
In their 10th home League game of the season, the hosts outplayed their visitors with a near perfect pressure performance before an 11 minute purple patch yeilded four killer tries.
The first half was a tense affair with the Hawks settling quickly into the game. Leigh made little impact in the first twenty minutes as Hunslet pinned the Centurions in their own half and twice missed penalties before the introduction of former Hull KR stalwart Mike Fletcher.
Inventive play from scrum-half Latham Tawhai almost led to two tries but last ditch tackling just prevented the Hawks from taking the lead.
Leigh had chances to register their first points when Fairclough made the visitors only line break of the half and full back Butch Fatnowna was penalised for holding the Leigh skipper down. Unfortunately Paul Wingfield sliced his penalty attempt wide.
Hunslet hit back when second row Rob Wilson caused havoc on the left, combining with Rob D'Arcy to send Richard Baker into a yawning gap. James Arkwright was caught in two minds and Baker chipped the Leigh fullback before winning the race to the bouncing ball thus making the conversion easy for Fletcher.
A 36th minute mass brawl saw Keiron Purtill and Tawhai warned of their conduct and from the resulting penalty, Hunslet gave Fletcher opportunity of a field goal to stretch the Hawks lead to 7 points.
Within seven minutes of the restart Hunslet went 13-0 up when D'Arcy's towering midfield bomb was retained and home captain Shaun Irwin put Chris North over for a Fletcher converted score.
Leigh hit back in the 52nd minute when returning substitute Phil Kendrick somehow held a Tim Street pass to waltz over.
Hunslet gained possession from the restart when Fletcher's deep kick took a wicked bounce over winger Mark Burrows head. Last ditch defence again looked to have saved Leigh but 18 consecutive tackles finally saw prop James Walker force his way in from close range for a converted score.
Three minutes later, fellow prop Steve Pryce added to Leigh's woes with a blockbusting 15 metre charge past Jamie Kennedy and Anthony Murray.
By this time the visitors were on the backfoot and Hunslet twice exposed the inexperience of Burrows as D'Arcy and Irwin both crossed for a matchwinning 33-6 lead. Fletcher added another penalty before Leigh gained some consolation when substitute Safraz Patel put Kendrick over for his second try of the game.
Hunslet Hawks - 35
Tries: (mins in brackets)
Baker (30), North (47), Walker (56), Pryce (60), D'Arcy (62), Irwin (67)
Goals: Fletcher 5 (from 7), Walker 0 (from 1), Ross 0 (from 1)
Field Goal: Fletcher 1.
Defeated
Leigh Centurions - 12
Tries: (mins in brackets)
Kendrick (52, 74)
Goals: Wingfield 1 (from 3), Kendrick 1 (from 1).
By DAVE PARKINSON
Hunslet Hawks closed the gap on the top three to just two points with an important victory over Leigh Centurions at the South Leeds Stadium.
In their 10th home League game of the season, the hosts outplayed their visitors with a near perfect pressure performance before an 11 minute purple patch yeilded four killer tries.
The first half was a tense affair with the Hawks settling quickly into the game. Leigh made little impact in the first twenty minutes as Hunslet pinned the Centurions in their own half and twice missed penalties before the introduction of former Hull KR stalwart Mike Fletcher.
Inventive play from scrum-half Latham Tawhai almost led to two tries but last ditch tackling just prevented the Hawks from taking the lead.
Leigh had chances to register their first points when Fairclough made the visitors only line break of the half and full back Butch Fatnowna was penalised for holding the Leigh skipper down. Unfortunately Paul Wingfield sliced his penalty attempt wide.
Hunslet hit back when second row Rob Wilson caused havoc on the left, combining with Rob D'Arcy to send Richard Baker into a yawning gap. James Arkwright was caught in two minds and Baker chipped the Leigh fullback before winning the race to the bouncing ball thus making the conversion easy for Fletcher.
A 36th minute mass brawl saw Keiron Purtill and Tawhai warned of their conduct and from the resulting penalty, Hunslet gave Fletcher opportunity of a field goal to stretch the Hawks lead to 7 points.
Within seven minutes of the restart Hunslet went 13-0 up when D'Arcy's towering midfield bomb was retained and home captain Shaun Irwin put Chris North over for a Fletcher converted score.
Leigh hit back in the 52nd minute when returning substitute Phil Kendrick somehow held a Tim Street pass to waltz over.
Hunslet gained possession from the restart when Fletcher's deep kick took a wicked bounce over winger Mark Burrows head. Last ditch defence again looked to have saved Leigh but 18 consecutive tackles finally saw prop James Walker force his way in from close range for a converted score.
Three minutes later, fellow prop Steve Pryce added to Leigh's woes with a blockbusting 15 metre charge past Jamie Kennedy and Anthony Murray.
By this time the visitors were on the backfoot and Hunslet twice exposed the inexperience of Burrows as D'Arcy and Irwin both crossed for a matchwinning 33-6 lead. Fletcher added another penalty before Leigh gained some consolation when substitute Safraz Patel put Kendrick over for his second try of the game.
Hunslet Hawks - 35
Tries: (mins in brackets)
Baker (30), North (47), Walker (56), Pryce (60), D'Arcy (62), Irwin (67)
Goals: Fletcher 5 (from 7), Walker 0 (from 1), Ross 0 (from 1)
Field Goal: Fletcher 1.
Defeated
Leigh Centurions - 12
Tries: (mins in brackets)
Kendrick (52, 74)
Goals: Wingfield 1 (from 3), Kendrick 1 (from 1).
1999 Season Reports: May: LEIGH CENTURIONS 27 HULL KINGSTON ROVERS 20
LEIGH 27 HULL KR 20
By Dave Parkinson
Leigh Centurions joined Dewsbury at the summit of the Premiership after inflicting Hull KR's second consecutive away defeat.
Missing the talents of PNG international Stanley Gene, Rovers paired former Leigh scrum-half Jason Donohue with the highly rated Chris Kitching.
Rovers made a slow start and fell behind in the fourth minute when a quick play-the-ball created space and Tau Liku sent Alan Hadcroft over in the corner. Paul Wingfield converted superbly from the touchline.
With ten minutes gone Leigh forced a scrum on half-way, but a misunderstanding saw former Kiwi international Whetu Taewa swoop on a dropped ball and put impressive full back Richard Smith over for a Kevin Gray converted try.
Taewa was at the heart of another break moments later, sending Jon Wray clear, before a pinpoint cover tackle by Stuart Donlan forced an error by the winger. The signs were ominous for Leigh as Rovers gained momentum. Donohue created Rovers second with a grubber kick and Taewa pounced for a 20th minute try.
Five minutes later, the Centurions were on level terms when livewire hooker Anthony Murray capitalised from a quick play and Ingram stepped two defenders from close range.
Rovers then hit Leigh's hopes with a two-try burst before halftime to open a 20-10 lead over their hosts.
Taewa grabbed his second try from a set scrum move and some great broken field running before a suspect play-the-ball from Donohue saw Paul Fletcher storm over.
A 40-20 kick virtually from the start of the second half from Mike Dixon put Leigh under pressure but the Centurions responded and worked their way back.
Seven minutes later, Leigh scored a fortunate try when Kieron Purtill's kick rebounded off a defender putting the chasers onside. Cruckshank charged through and took the bouncing ball from Taewa's grasp. Wingfield converted and was again on target to put Leigh in front after Fairclough increased his season try tally to 13 from the scrum base.
Hull KR had chances to equalise but Gray saw two penalties sail wide. The visitors were further hampered when influential hooker Dixon was helped from the field with an injury.
The final quarter became a test of nerves with Rovers seemingly unable to change their game pattern despite the promptings of their halfbacks and some forceful running from Ian Hughes and Alex Thompson.
It was Leigh that kept things together with Wingfield a key figure late in the game. The wingman added two further penalties and a field-goal to take the score to 27-20.
In an eventful last few minutes Donohue was sent off for instigating a fight involving the outstanding Tim Street who was duly despatched to the sin-bin for retaliation. This failed to take the gloss from a second half that belonged to Leigh as much as the first had to Rovers.
Leigh Centurions 27
Tries: (Minutes in brackets)
Hadcroft (4), Ingram (25), Cruickshank (47), Fairclough (55)
Goals: Wingfield 5 (from 7)
Field Goal: Wingfield 1.
Defeated
Hull Kingston Rovers 20
Tries: (Minutes in brackets)
Smith (10), Taewa (20, 36), Fletcher (40)
Goals: Gray 2 (from 6)
Attendance: 2419 (at Hilton Park, Leigh)
Starmen:
Leigh: Street / Purtill - Prop / Scrum-half
Hull KR: Donohue / Taewa - Scrum-half / Centre
By Dave Parkinson
Leigh Centurions joined Dewsbury at the summit of the Premiership after inflicting Hull KR's second consecutive away defeat.
Missing the talents of PNG international Stanley Gene, Rovers paired former Leigh scrum-half Jason Donohue with the highly rated Chris Kitching.
Rovers made a slow start and fell behind in the fourth minute when a quick play-the-ball created space and Tau Liku sent Alan Hadcroft over in the corner. Paul Wingfield converted superbly from the touchline.
With ten minutes gone Leigh forced a scrum on half-way, but a misunderstanding saw former Kiwi international Whetu Taewa swoop on a dropped ball and put impressive full back Richard Smith over for a Kevin Gray converted try.
Taewa was at the heart of another break moments later, sending Jon Wray clear, before a pinpoint cover tackle by Stuart Donlan forced an error by the winger. The signs were ominous for Leigh as Rovers gained momentum. Donohue created Rovers second with a grubber kick and Taewa pounced for a 20th minute try.
Five minutes later, the Centurions were on level terms when livewire hooker Anthony Murray capitalised from a quick play and Ingram stepped two defenders from close range.
Rovers then hit Leigh's hopes with a two-try burst before halftime to open a 20-10 lead over their hosts.
Taewa grabbed his second try from a set scrum move and some great broken field running before a suspect play-the-ball from Donohue saw Paul Fletcher storm over.
A 40-20 kick virtually from the start of the second half from Mike Dixon put Leigh under pressure but the Centurions responded and worked their way back.
Seven minutes later, Leigh scored a fortunate try when Kieron Purtill's kick rebounded off a defender putting the chasers onside. Cruckshank charged through and took the bouncing ball from Taewa's grasp. Wingfield converted and was again on target to put Leigh in front after Fairclough increased his season try tally to 13 from the scrum base.
Hull KR had chances to equalise but Gray saw two penalties sail wide. The visitors were further hampered when influential hooker Dixon was helped from the field with an injury.
The final quarter became a test of nerves with Rovers seemingly unable to change their game pattern despite the promptings of their halfbacks and some forceful running from Ian Hughes and Alex Thompson.
It was Leigh that kept things together with Wingfield a key figure late in the game. The wingman added two further penalties and a field-goal to take the score to 27-20.
In an eventful last few minutes Donohue was sent off for instigating a fight involving the outstanding Tim Street who was duly despatched to the sin-bin for retaliation. This failed to take the gloss from a second half that belonged to Leigh as much as the first had to Rovers.
Leigh Centurions 27
Tries: (Minutes in brackets)
Hadcroft (4), Ingram (25), Cruickshank (47), Fairclough (55)
Goals: Wingfield 5 (from 7)
Field Goal: Wingfield 1.
Defeated
Hull Kingston Rovers 20
Tries: (Minutes in brackets)
Smith (10), Taewa (20, 36), Fletcher (40)
Goals: Gray 2 (from 6)
Attendance: 2419 (at Hilton Park, Leigh)
Starmen:
Leigh: Street / Purtill - Prop / Scrum-half
Hull KR: Donohue / Taewa - Scrum-half / Centre
1999: Season Reports: May: BATLEY BULLDOGS 25 LEIGH CENTURIONS 16
BATLEY BULLDOGS 25 LEIGH CENTURIONS 16
By Dave Parkinson.
A try 30 seconds from time from outstanding home scrum-half Barnett finally clinched a deserved victory for Batley who had shown more bulldog spirit throughout than their visitors.
Leigh had made an encouraging opening to the game but were outplayed in the key half-back areas by a hungry Batley side fresh from a 17-16 away victory at Widnes.
Playing up the slope in the first half, the Centurions shocked Batley with two tries in the first five minutes.
The first fell to Andy Fairclough, using all his guile and strength to brush past two defenders. The second try was scored in virtually the same spot after Anthony Murray, Scott Hilton and Kieron Purtill had created the opening for Chris Parr to score his first try for the club.
Wingfield missed both conversions plus a penalty sandwiched between some good Batley pressure and Leigh held an 8-0 lead.
Despite bossing the opening quarter, Leigh could not breach the Batley defence again in the first half and this gave the home side encouragement.
Batley had a try disallowed before a scrum on their own 40 metre finally worked in the Bulldog's favour. Price slipped a tackle before sending second row Miers sprinting clear from 50 metres for a touchdown.
Leigh ran into further injury worries after 25 minutes when Stuart Donlan was stretchered off after a tackle on Roger Simpson. Dave Ingram was switched to full-back but could do little as Price ghosted over on 27 minutes and his own conversion gave Batley a slender 10-8 lead.
Barnett and Price had further opportunities to increase the Bulldog lead but a combination of luck and determined defence kept them at bay. Just as Leigh were waiting for halftime, they conceded a penalty and Price converted. Once again the Centurions were caught cold when Gary Barnett split the cover and sent Lee Bargate haring over for a converted try and an 18-8 lead.
Just as they had done in the first half, Leigh started well and were rewarded in the 44th minute when a conspicuous pass from Heath Cruckshank was missed by the officials and Murray sped under the posts for a Wingfield converted try.
Price missed a penalty for the home side before substitute Safraz Patel worked an opening with Hilton only for the loose forward to be hauled down short. Batley were penalised for the tackle and Wingfield closed the Bulldog lead to just two points with the 62nd minute penalty.
Moments later Cruckshank had a touchdown disallowed after the referee consulted the linesman who ruled Purtill's offload to the second row was forward. That was as close as Leigh came to another score in the game. Batley continued to run the clock down and Mark Cass kicked a field-goal before Barnett's last gasp heroics lifted the Bulldogs to 9th in the table.
Batley Bulldogs 25
Tries: (minutes in brackets)
Miers (21), Price (27), Bargate (38), Barnett (79)
Goals: Price 4 (from 7)
Field Goal: Cass 1
Defeated
Leigh Centurions 16
Tries: (mins in brackets)
Fairclough (2), Parr (4), Murray (44)
Goals: Wingfield 2 (from 5)
Attendance: 1023 (at Mount Pleasant, Batley).
Starmen:
Batley = Gary Barnett / Richard Price - Halfbacks
Leigh = Tim Street / Alan Hadcroft - Prop / Centre
By Dave Parkinson.
A try 30 seconds from time from outstanding home scrum-half Barnett finally clinched a deserved victory for Batley who had shown more bulldog spirit throughout than their visitors.
Leigh had made an encouraging opening to the game but were outplayed in the key half-back areas by a hungry Batley side fresh from a 17-16 away victory at Widnes.
Playing up the slope in the first half, the Centurions shocked Batley with two tries in the first five minutes.
The first fell to Andy Fairclough, using all his guile and strength to brush past two defenders. The second try was scored in virtually the same spot after Anthony Murray, Scott Hilton and Kieron Purtill had created the opening for Chris Parr to score his first try for the club.
Wingfield missed both conversions plus a penalty sandwiched between some good Batley pressure and Leigh held an 8-0 lead.
Despite bossing the opening quarter, Leigh could not breach the Batley defence again in the first half and this gave the home side encouragement.
Batley had a try disallowed before a scrum on their own 40 metre finally worked in the Bulldog's favour. Price slipped a tackle before sending second row Miers sprinting clear from 50 metres for a touchdown.
Leigh ran into further injury worries after 25 minutes when Stuart Donlan was stretchered off after a tackle on Roger Simpson. Dave Ingram was switched to full-back but could do little as Price ghosted over on 27 minutes and his own conversion gave Batley a slender 10-8 lead.
Barnett and Price had further opportunities to increase the Bulldog lead but a combination of luck and determined defence kept them at bay. Just as Leigh were waiting for halftime, they conceded a penalty and Price converted. Once again the Centurions were caught cold when Gary Barnett split the cover and sent Lee Bargate haring over for a converted try and an 18-8 lead.
Just as they had done in the first half, Leigh started well and were rewarded in the 44th minute when a conspicuous pass from Heath Cruckshank was missed by the officials and Murray sped under the posts for a Wingfield converted try.
Price missed a penalty for the home side before substitute Safraz Patel worked an opening with Hilton only for the loose forward to be hauled down short. Batley were penalised for the tackle and Wingfield closed the Bulldog lead to just two points with the 62nd minute penalty.
Moments later Cruckshank had a touchdown disallowed after the referee consulted the linesman who ruled Purtill's offload to the second row was forward. That was as close as Leigh came to another score in the game. Batley continued to run the clock down and Mark Cass kicked a field-goal before Barnett's last gasp heroics lifted the Bulldogs to 9th in the table.
Batley Bulldogs 25
Tries: (minutes in brackets)
Miers (21), Price (27), Bargate (38), Barnett (79)
Goals: Price 4 (from 7)
Field Goal: Cass 1
Defeated
Leigh Centurions 16
Tries: (mins in brackets)
Fairclough (2), Parr (4), Murray (44)
Goals: Wingfield 2 (from 5)
Attendance: 1023 (at Mount Pleasant, Batley).
Starmen:
Batley = Gary Barnett / Richard Price - Halfbacks
Leigh = Tim Street / Alan Hadcroft - Prop / Centre
1999 Season Reports: May: Workington Town 42 Leigh Centurions 10
Workington Town 42 Leigh Centurions 10
By Dave Parkinson.
February 26th 1995 is a date many Leigh fans want to forget. Leigh had won a hard fought 34-22 victory at Swinton in the Challenge Cup and arrived at Derwent Park hoping to acquit themselves well against a Workington side in the top division.
Workington had other ideas, scoring 17 tries against a hapless Leigh defence that slumped to a club record 94-4 defeat.
May 9th 1999, finally saw Leigh gain some revenge with a comfortable 42-10 victory, their 10th league success of the season and fifth in succession (ironically including a 34-22 defeat of Swinton).
Workington made their intentions clear early on, putting pressure on the home line. They almost took the lead when former Whitehaven player-coach Colin Armstrong was held up over the line.
Leigh were lethargic in the opening quarter with far too many unforced errors keeping Workington in control.
Surprisingly Leigh were first to trouble the scoreboard with an opportunist try from Dave Ingram. He chipped over the defence and then took an awkward bounce to go over in the corner.
Graeme Close then had a chance to put Town on the board after an indescretion from Tim Street. Unfortunatey Close swung his penalty attempt wide and Leigh regained the initiative quickly.
Street turned from villain to hero in the 21st minute when he carved an opening in the defence before turning on the speed and putting supporting full-back Stuart Donlan over for a converted try.
This move seemed to lift Leigh's confidence and they were over again 8 minutes later when Andy Fairclough sent Cruckshank haring through a gap before the second row provided the pass for Ingram's 12th try of the season.
Paul Wingfield converted and added a 36th minute penalty after Donlan was held down.
Workington seemed content to wind the clock down but Leigh had other ideas and scored the try of the game just before the break. Substitute Paul Norman began the move on his own 40 metre line, offloading to Anthony Murray. He accelerated through a gap before handing on to Alan Hadcroft who evaded two tackles to go under the posts.
Leigh extended their lead to 30-0 six minutes after the restart when Keiron Purtill's grubber kick on the last tackle was pounced on by the impressive Donlan.
Town were reduced to 12 men a moment later when second-row Heaton was sent off for a high tackle on Donlan.
It was Town that responded however with an unconverted score from the hard working Close.
On the hour Leigh extended their lead to 36-4 when a quick tap penalty led to Murray squeezing through a two man tackle, just evading former London centre Cochrane.
Workington fought back gamely and were rewarded when hooker Jenkins fed Riley, who bulldozed over from close range.
Leigh had the final say when alert play on the left wing between Tau Liku, Murray, Hadcroft and James Arkwright exposed the defence and Murray took the scoring pass. Paul Wingfield added his 7th goal from the touchline and Leigh climbed to 2nd spot following Hull KR's shock 43-20 loss to Barrow.
Leigh Centurions : 42
Tries (minutes in brackets)
Ingram (11, 29), Donlan (21, 46), Hadcroft (39), Murray (60, 73)
Goals: Wingfield 7 (from 8 attempts).
defeated
Workington Town: 10
Tries (minutes in brackets)
Close (49), Riley (63)
Goals: Close 1 (from 3 attempts).
Attendance: 1484
Game Stars:
Leigh - Stuart Donlan = Full Back.
Workington - Graeme Close = Scrum Half.
By Dave Parkinson.
February 26th 1995 is a date many Leigh fans want to forget. Leigh had won a hard fought 34-22 victory at Swinton in the Challenge Cup and arrived at Derwent Park hoping to acquit themselves well against a Workington side in the top division.
Workington had other ideas, scoring 17 tries against a hapless Leigh defence that slumped to a club record 94-4 defeat.
May 9th 1999, finally saw Leigh gain some revenge with a comfortable 42-10 victory, their 10th league success of the season and fifth in succession (ironically including a 34-22 defeat of Swinton).
Workington made their intentions clear early on, putting pressure on the home line. They almost took the lead when former Whitehaven player-coach Colin Armstrong was held up over the line.
Leigh were lethargic in the opening quarter with far too many unforced errors keeping Workington in control.
Surprisingly Leigh were first to trouble the scoreboard with an opportunist try from Dave Ingram. He chipped over the defence and then took an awkward bounce to go over in the corner.
Graeme Close then had a chance to put Town on the board after an indescretion from Tim Street. Unfortunatey Close swung his penalty attempt wide and Leigh regained the initiative quickly.
Street turned from villain to hero in the 21st minute when he carved an opening in the defence before turning on the speed and putting supporting full-back Stuart Donlan over for a converted try.
This move seemed to lift Leigh's confidence and they were over again 8 minutes later when Andy Fairclough sent Cruckshank haring through a gap before the second row provided the pass for Ingram's 12th try of the season.
Paul Wingfield converted and added a 36th minute penalty after Donlan was held down.
Workington seemed content to wind the clock down but Leigh had other ideas and scored the try of the game just before the break. Substitute Paul Norman began the move on his own 40 metre line, offloading to Anthony Murray. He accelerated through a gap before handing on to Alan Hadcroft who evaded two tackles to go under the posts.
Leigh extended their lead to 30-0 six minutes after the restart when Keiron Purtill's grubber kick on the last tackle was pounced on by the impressive Donlan.
Town were reduced to 12 men a moment later when second-row Heaton was sent off for a high tackle on Donlan.
It was Town that responded however with an unconverted score from the hard working Close.
On the hour Leigh extended their lead to 36-4 when a quick tap penalty led to Murray squeezing through a two man tackle, just evading former London centre Cochrane.
Workington fought back gamely and were rewarded when hooker Jenkins fed Riley, who bulldozed over from close range.
Leigh had the final say when alert play on the left wing between Tau Liku, Murray, Hadcroft and James Arkwright exposed the defence and Murray took the scoring pass. Paul Wingfield added his 7th goal from the touchline and Leigh climbed to 2nd spot following Hull KR's shock 43-20 loss to Barrow.
Leigh Centurions : 42
Tries (minutes in brackets)
Ingram (11, 29), Donlan (21, 46), Hadcroft (39), Murray (60, 73)
Goals: Wingfield 7 (from 8 attempts).
defeated
Workington Town: 10
Tries (minutes in brackets)
Close (49), Riley (63)
Goals: Close 1 (from 3 attempts).
Attendance: 1484
Game Stars:
Leigh - Stuart Donlan = Full Back.
Workington - Graeme Close = Scrum Half.
1999 Season Reports: April: SWINTON LIONS 22 LEIGH CENTURIONS 34
SWINTON 22 LEIGH 34
By Dave Parkinson.
Paul Wingfield's 7 goals from 7 attempts helped Leigh leapfrog Dewsbury into outright second place, a position few would have predicted at the start of the season.
The Centurions ninth league success on the season was built in the forwards with Tim Street, Heath Cruckshank, Paul Norman and Jamie Kennedy having fine games.
Leigh were quickly into the game and shocked their local rivals when from their first possession, Alan Hadcroft forced an error from Lions Welsh-aussie Price-Jones who was forced to leave the field. The visitors then worked the ball wide and former Gold Coast forward Cruckshank charged over for a converted score.
By the 17th minute Swinton had got themselves back into the contest with Gartland kicking 2 penalties. Lions full-back Mark Welsby scored the first try for the home team four minutes later, showing good awareness in support. Scrum-half Gartland again converted, giving the home side a slender four point advantage.
After Murray and Street were held-up over the line, Leigh finally made their pressure count when Scott Hilton's inside ball from a scrum put Radney Bowker over for a 29th minute touchdown. Wingfield's conversion and 2 penalties saw a 16-10 scoreline to the visitors.
Three minutes from the break, Wingfield turned from hero to villain, rooted to the spot as opposing winger Simon Ashcroft rose high to catch the ball and touch down following Gartland's cross-field kick. Gartland's conversion tied the game.
With the final play of the half, Leigh launched an ambitious attack and were rewarded when Bowker's inside ball was hacked on by Paul Norman who won the race for a scoring touch.
Leigh scored again 90 seconds after the restart with a determined drive from Norman. Wingfield's conversion gave Leigh breathing space at 28-16 as Swinton employed a more expansive game.
Lion's half-backs Gartland and Ian Watson tried hard to break the defence but Leigh forced errors on several occasions with Kennedy tracking and hurrying both players across the park.
After 59 minutes, the Centurions stretched their lead when Keiron Purtill was adjudged to have been fouled near the line and Referee Nicholson awarded a penalty try.
This try proved to be the gamebreaker as Leigh closed the game down in the final 20 minutes with no-frills play and solid tackling.
The Lions were rewarded for their efforts in the last minute however, when Gartland slit the defence and put big substitute Steve Taylor over for a converted score to restrict Leigh's winning margin to 12 points.
Attendance: 1300
Swinton Lions 22
(Minutes in Brackets)
Tries: Welsby (21), Ashcroft (37), Taylor (80).
Goals: Gartland 5 (from 5)
Leigh Centurions 34
(Minutes in Brackets)
Tries: Cruckshank (4), Bowker (29), Norman (40, 42), K. Purtill (59)
Goals: Wingfield 7 (from 7)
Man of the Match
Leigh: Tim Street No.8 - The Leigh prop just shaded it over Cruckshank and Kennedy with a non-stop display.
Swinton: Steve Gartland No.7 - Although playing behind a beaten pack the scrum-half was at the hub of the Lions best moves. He also booted 5 goals from 5 attempts.
By Dave Parkinson.
Paul Wingfield's 7 goals from 7 attempts helped Leigh leapfrog Dewsbury into outright second place, a position few would have predicted at the start of the season.
The Centurions ninth league success on the season was built in the forwards with Tim Street, Heath Cruckshank, Paul Norman and Jamie Kennedy having fine games.
Leigh were quickly into the game and shocked their local rivals when from their first possession, Alan Hadcroft forced an error from Lions Welsh-aussie Price-Jones who was forced to leave the field. The visitors then worked the ball wide and former Gold Coast forward Cruckshank charged over for a converted score.
By the 17th minute Swinton had got themselves back into the contest with Gartland kicking 2 penalties. Lions full-back Mark Welsby scored the first try for the home team four minutes later, showing good awareness in support. Scrum-half Gartland again converted, giving the home side a slender four point advantage.
After Murray and Street were held-up over the line, Leigh finally made their pressure count when Scott Hilton's inside ball from a scrum put Radney Bowker over for a 29th minute touchdown. Wingfield's conversion and 2 penalties saw a 16-10 scoreline to the visitors.
Three minutes from the break, Wingfield turned from hero to villain, rooted to the spot as opposing winger Simon Ashcroft rose high to catch the ball and touch down following Gartland's cross-field kick. Gartland's conversion tied the game.
With the final play of the half, Leigh launched an ambitious attack and were rewarded when Bowker's inside ball was hacked on by Paul Norman who won the race for a scoring touch.
Leigh scored again 90 seconds after the restart with a determined drive from Norman. Wingfield's conversion gave Leigh breathing space at 28-16 as Swinton employed a more expansive game.
Lion's half-backs Gartland and Ian Watson tried hard to break the defence but Leigh forced errors on several occasions with Kennedy tracking and hurrying both players across the park.
After 59 minutes, the Centurions stretched their lead when Keiron Purtill was adjudged to have been fouled near the line and Referee Nicholson awarded a penalty try.
This try proved to be the gamebreaker as Leigh closed the game down in the final 20 minutes with no-frills play and solid tackling.
The Lions were rewarded for their efforts in the last minute however, when Gartland slit the defence and put big substitute Steve Taylor over for a converted score to restrict Leigh's winning margin to 12 points.
Attendance: 1300
Swinton Lions 22
(Minutes in Brackets)
Tries: Welsby (21), Ashcroft (37), Taylor (80).
Goals: Gartland 5 (from 5)
Leigh Centurions 34
(Minutes in Brackets)
Tries: Cruckshank (4), Bowker (29), Norman (40, 42), K. Purtill (59)
Goals: Wingfield 7 (from 7)
Man of the Match
Leigh: Tim Street No.8 - The Leigh prop just shaded it over Cruckshank and Kennedy with a non-stop display.
Swinton: Steve Gartland No.7 - Although playing behind a beaten pack the scrum-half was at the hub of the Lions best moves. He also booted 5 goals from 5 attempts.
1999 Season Reports: April: LEIGH CENTURIONS 28 KEIGHLEY COUGARS 16
LEIGH CENTURIONS 28 KEIGHLEY COUGARS 16
By Dave Parkinson.
The Centurions continued their recent march to the play-offs with a resounding 6-tries-to-2 mauling of the Cougars in their best display of the season so far.
Led superbly from the front by stand-off Andy Fairclough, Leigh made a lightening start, Heath Cruckshank touching down in the first minute following a Cougar knock-on.
Dave Ingram grabbed a second Centurion try in the twelfth minute before a Cruckshank "big hit" was penalised and Martin Wood added the first of his four goals.
Keighley were back in the game two minutes later when a towering kick from Christian Tyrer fell to former Warrington winger Jason Lee who just evaded a tackle to crash over in the corner.
Ten minutes before half-time Leigh stretched their advantage to 12-6 when Fairclough's defence splitting pass saw Ingram race 40 metres before Anthony Murray's support was rewarded and the hooker sped to the line.
Another Wood penalty closed the gap to four points but Leigh hit back with virtually the last play of the half when Scott Hilton and Stuart Donlan combined to put James Arkwright over in the corner. Wingfield then converted superbly from the touchline for a ten point half-time cushion.
The second half began poorly for the Centurions as Keighley applied pressure and pinned the home side in their own territory. Former Castleford forward Andrew Schick went close before a try saving tackle from Donlan. The Leigh fullback then tested the patience of referee Smith with his delaying tactics and was sinbinned. Wood made it 18-10 with the resultant penalty.
Keighley were unable to take further advantage with the Centurions defensive line holding firm.
As the weather deteriorated, Leigh adjusted their game and Tim Street burrowed his way over for a 22-10 lead after 66 minutes.
The Cougars were not finished and piled forward. Hard working scrum-half Nathan Antonik worked an opening for Dave Larder to grab a try on 72 minutes. Wood closed the lead to just 6 points with the conversion and gave the Hilton Park crowd a worrying last few moments.
They need not have worried as Leigh sealed the game in the final minute when man-of-the-match Fairclough dived over for his 11th of the season, with Wingfield adding only the second goal of a slightly wayward kicking performance.
Leigh Centurions - 28
Tries - (minutes in brackets)
Cruckshank (1), Ingram (12), Murray (30), Arkwright (39), Street (66), Fairclough (79).
Goals - Paul Wingfield 2 (from 7)
Keighley Cougars - 16
Tries - (minutes in brackets)
Lee (20), Larder (72).
Goals - Martin Wood 4 (from 5)
Game Stars -
Leigh - Andy Fairclough No.6
Keighley - David Larder No.11
Attendance - 1856
By Dave Parkinson.
The Centurions continued their recent march to the play-offs with a resounding 6-tries-to-2 mauling of the Cougars in their best display of the season so far.
Led superbly from the front by stand-off Andy Fairclough, Leigh made a lightening start, Heath Cruckshank touching down in the first minute following a Cougar knock-on.
Dave Ingram grabbed a second Centurion try in the twelfth minute before a Cruckshank "big hit" was penalised and Martin Wood added the first of his four goals.
Keighley were back in the game two minutes later when a towering kick from Christian Tyrer fell to former Warrington winger Jason Lee who just evaded a tackle to crash over in the corner.
Ten minutes before half-time Leigh stretched their advantage to 12-6 when Fairclough's defence splitting pass saw Ingram race 40 metres before Anthony Murray's support was rewarded and the hooker sped to the line.
Another Wood penalty closed the gap to four points but Leigh hit back with virtually the last play of the half when Scott Hilton and Stuart Donlan combined to put James Arkwright over in the corner. Wingfield then converted superbly from the touchline for a ten point half-time cushion.
The second half began poorly for the Centurions as Keighley applied pressure and pinned the home side in their own territory. Former Castleford forward Andrew Schick went close before a try saving tackle from Donlan. The Leigh fullback then tested the patience of referee Smith with his delaying tactics and was sinbinned. Wood made it 18-10 with the resultant penalty.
Keighley were unable to take further advantage with the Centurions defensive line holding firm.
As the weather deteriorated, Leigh adjusted their game and Tim Street burrowed his way over for a 22-10 lead after 66 minutes.
The Cougars were not finished and piled forward. Hard working scrum-half Nathan Antonik worked an opening for Dave Larder to grab a try on 72 minutes. Wood closed the lead to just 6 points with the conversion and gave the Hilton Park crowd a worrying last few moments.
They need not have worried as Leigh sealed the game in the final minute when man-of-the-match Fairclough dived over for his 11th of the season, with Wingfield adding only the second goal of a slightly wayward kicking performance.
Leigh Centurions - 28
Tries - (minutes in brackets)
Cruckshank (1), Ingram (12), Murray (30), Arkwright (39), Street (66), Fairclough (79).
Goals - Paul Wingfield 2 (from 7)
Keighley Cougars - 16
Tries - (minutes in brackets)
Lee (20), Larder (72).
Goals - Martin Wood 4 (from 5)
Game Stars -
Leigh - Andy Fairclough No.6
Keighley - David Larder No.11
Attendance - 1856
1999 Season Reports: April: LANCASHIRE LYNX 24 LEIGH CENTURIONS 44
LANCASHIRE LYNX 24 LEIGH CENTURIONS 44
By Dave Parkinson.
Leigh were made to work hard by injury hit Lancashire in an open game that yielded twelve tries before Lynx biggest home crowd of the season.
The large Leigh following expected an easy game and were stunned into silence after three minutes when former Leigh loose forward Sean Geritas showed strength to power his way over for a converted try.
Leigh were soon on level terms as stand-off Radney Bowker showed a superb dummy to PJ Solomon and accelerated inside the stunned centre on the last tackle.
Home winger Campbell briefly regained the lead for Lancashire with a penalty but Leigh hit back in the 17th minute when make-shift centre Heath Cruckshank put Paul Wingfield over in the corner for an unconverted try.
Two minutes later the Cruckshank-Wingfield combination split the Lynx defence open with the latter racing 40 metres for his second try.
Another Leigh try wasn't long in coming.
A four man move was finished by former Widnes hooker Anthony Murray and the Centurions looked set for a massive score.
The visitors hadn't counted on the fighting spirit of the home side, typified by former Wigan back "Doc" Murray who swept in for two tries before half time to cut the Centurions lead to just 22-18.
Andy Fairclough extended Leigh's slender advantage in the 46th minute with his tenth try of the season from dummy half after Murray's fifty metre run was halted by a try saving tackle from Lynx "Gladiators" star Neil Parsley.
Dave Whittle was despatched to the sin bin in the 53rd minute and the Lynx reply was immediate when Simon Smith crashed in for 6 points to again peg the Leigh lead to just 4 points.
Leigh were floundering and Lynx applied pressure to the visitors defence. The game breaking moment came in the 61st minute with Lynx on the attack. Darren Abram put winger Lee Rushton away with a pass, only for the youngster to drop the ball 10 metres from an open line.
Less than 5 minutes later Fairclough called a move at the scrum base and sent scrum half Scott Hilton haring through a gap to finish from forty metres. Wingfield converted and at 34-24 Leigh were back in command.
Jamie Kennedy and Murray added further scores in the final 8 minutes as Lancashire finally ran out of steam.
A spirited performance from an injury ravaged team augers well for the home side, while Leigh are fast becoming a real top 5 threat.
Attendance - 777
Lynx 24
Tries - Lynx (minutes in brackets)
Geritas (3), "Doc" Murray (29, 36), Simon Smith (53).
Goals - Lynx
Campbell (4 from 5)
Leigh 44
Tries - Leigh (minutes in brackets)
Bowker (8), Wingfield (17, 19), Anthony Murray (26, 75) Fairclough (46), Hilton (66), Kennedy (72)
Goals - Leigh
Paul Wingfield (6 from 8)
Gamestars:
Lynx No.6 : Doc Murray - Playing in the unusual position of stand-off the Kiwi skipper was a constant threat and his two tries were well deserved.
Leigh No.9 : Anthony Murray - Leigh's own namesake had an excellent game with the ball, constantly driving Lynx back with inventive play from acting halfback.
By Dave Parkinson.
Leigh were made to work hard by injury hit Lancashire in an open game that yielded twelve tries before Lynx biggest home crowd of the season.
The large Leigh following expected an easy game and were stunned into silence after three minutes when former Leigh loose forward Sean Geritas showed strength to power his way over for a converted try.
Leigh were soon on level terms as stand-off Radney Bowker showed a superb dummy to PJ Solomon and accelerated inside the stunned centre on the last tackle.
Home winger Campbell briefly regained the lead for Lancashire with a penalty but Leigh hit back in the 17th minute when make-shift centre Heath Cruckshank put Paul Wingfield over in the corner for an unconverted try.
Two minutes later the Cruckshank-Wingfield combination split the Lynx defence open with the latter racing 40 metres for his second try.
Another Leigh try wasn't long in coming.
A four man move was finished by former Widnes hooker Anthony Murray and the Centurions looked set for a massive score.
The visitors hadn't counted on the fighting spirit of the home side, typified by former Wigan back "Doc" Murray who swept in for two tries before half time to cut the Centurions lead to just 22-18.
Andy Fairclough extended Leigh's slender advantage in the 46th minute with his tenth try of the season from dummy half after Murray's fifty metre run was halted by a try saving tackle from Lynx "Gladiators" star Neil Parsley.
Dave Whittle was despatched to the sin bin in the 53rd minute and the Lynx reply was immediate when Simon Smith crashed in for 6 points to again peg the Leigh lead to just 4 points.
Leigh were floundering and Lynx applied pressure to the visitors defence. The game breaking moment came in the 61st minute with Lynx on the attack. Darren Abram put winger Lee Rushton away with a pass, only for the youngster to drop the ball 10 metres from an open line.
Less than 5 minutes later Fairclough called a move at the scrum base and sent scrum half Scott Hilton haring through a gap to finish from forty metres. Wingfield converted and at 34-24 Leigh were back in command.
Jamie Kennedy and Murray added further scores in the final 8 minutes as Lancashire finally ran out of steam.
A spirited performance from an injury ravaged team augers well for the home side, while Leigh are fast becoming a real top 5 threat.
Attendance - 777
Lynx 24
Tries - Lynx (minutes in brackets)
Geritas (3), "Doc" Murray (29, 36), Simon Smith (53).
Goals - Lynx
Campbell (4 from 5)
Leigh 44
Tries - Leigh (minutes in brackets)
Bowker (8), Wingfield (17, 19), Anthony Murray (26, 75) Fairclough (46), Hilton (66), Kennedy (72)
Goals - Leigh
Paul Wingfield (6 from 8)
Gamestars:
Lynx No.6 : Doc Murray - Playing in the unusual position of stand-off the Kiwi skipper was a constant threat and his two tries were well deserved.
Leigh No.9 : Anthony Murray - Leigh's own namesake had an excellent game with the ball, constantly driving Lynx back with inventive play from acting halfback.
1999 Season Reports: April: LEIGH 22 WIDNES 23
LEIGH CENTURIONS 22 WIDNES VIKINGS 23
By Dave Parkinson
They say lightening doesn't strike twice, but the similarities between this League meeting at Hilton Park and the cup game were there for all to see.
A good crowd witnessed a titanic struggle with Widnes edging out the home side 23-22. Jason Critchley (a former Leigh Ranger) was the Viking hero with two tries and provided the final pass that sent fullback Salisbury over the line for the clincher 8 minutes from time.
Leigh started the game brightly, pinning Widnes in their own half in a ferocious opening 10 minutes. The visitors cut loose after quarter of an hour when Phil Cantillon outpaced the cover from the play the ball in a superb 45 metre dash.
Four minutes later Critchley burst through and 8-0 soon became 9-0 when Mark Hewitt landed a drop goal. Leigh hit back from close range when a short pass from Craig Dean put Tim Street over on 27 minutes. A brawl followed and referee Mr Gilmour put the incident on report.
Hewitt nudged another penalty over before a Dean grubber kick was pounced upon by Dave Ingram. Another melee erupted in-goal and Widnes winger Munro was sent off.
Leigh made their numerical advantage count early in the second half when Andy Fairclough scored a try, converted from the touchline by Paul Wingfield.
A short kick-off saw Widnes regain possession and some excellent support play was rewarded when Critchley crashed over for a converted try on 51 minutes.
Andy Fairclough again gave the home side the lead, racing onto a short pass and ploughing through 3 defenders to score beneath the posts.
Wingfield's conversion made it 22-17 but Leigh were never able to fully close the game down.
Another penalty brought the Vikings within 3 points of their hosts but Leigh still felt they could hold onto this lead and looked fairly composed until Stuart Donlan's 40 metre break came to nothing and the young fullback dropped the ball.
From the possession Widnes worked the ball wide and Critchley's basketball pass saw Jim Salisbury cash in.
Game Stars:-
Leigh - Andy Fairclough was again stand out performer with a brace of tries and some determined cover defence.
Widnes - Jason Critchley was a thorn in Leigh's side all afternoon, scoring 2 tries and creating another.
By Dave Parkinson
They say lightening doesn't strike twice, but the similarities between this League meeting at Hilton Park and the cup game were there for all to see.
A good crowd witnessed a titanic struggle with Widnes edging out the home side 23-22. Jason Critchley (a former Leigh Ranger) was the Viking hero with two tries and provided the final pass that sent fullback Salisbury over the line for the clincher 8 minutes from time.
Leigh started the game brightly, pinning Widnes in their own half in a ferocious opening 10 minutes. The visitors cut loose after quarter of an hour when Phil Cantillon outpaced the cover from the play the ball in a superb 45 metre dash.
Four minutes later Critchley burst through and 8-0 soon became 9-0 when Mark Hewitt landed a drop goal. Leigh hit back from close range when a short pass from Craig Dean put Tim Street over on 27 minutes. A brawl followed and referee Mr Gilmour put the incident on report.
Hewitt nudged another penalty over before a Dean grubber kick was pounced upon by Dave Ingram. Another melee erupted in-goal and Widnes winger Munro was sent off.
Leigh made their numerical advantage count early in the second half when Andy Fairclough scored a try, converted from the touchline by Paul Wingfield.
A short kick-off saw Widnes regain possession and some excellent support play was rewarded when Critchley crashed over for a converted try on 51 minutes.
Andy Fairclough again gave the home side the lead, racing onto a short pass and ploughing through 3 defenders to score beneath the posts.
Wingfield's conversion made it 22-17 but Leigh were never able to fully close the game down.
Another penalty brought the Vikings within 3 points of their hosts but Leigh still felt they could hold onto this lead and looked fairly composed until Stuart Donlan's 40 metre break came to nothing and the young fullback dropped the ball.
From the possession Widnes worked the ball wide and Critchley's basketball pass saw Jim Salisbury cash in.
Game Stars:-
Leigh - Andy Fairclough was again stand out performer with a brace of tries and some determined cover defence.
Widnes - Jason Critchley was a thorn in Leigh's side all afternoon, scoring 2 tries and creating another.
1998 Season Reports: DEWSBURY RAMS 26 LEIGH CENTURIONS 18
Dewsbury Rams 26 - 18 Centurions
By Dave Parkinson
The inspirational Tim Street revealed both sides of his character in a seesaw tussle at Ram Stadium.
Easily the best forward on the field, the combative Street was sinbinned on 56 minutes, and then dismissed three minutes from the end.
Despite the loss of their club captain, Leigh and the returning Safraz Patel gave Dewsbury a real fright in the second half.
Patel, four games into his comeback following major shoulder surgery, added his usual measure of enthusiasm and produced some nice touches in his first top grade game since a pre-season friendly with Wigan.
Dewsbury made a solid start to the match and registered their first points when impressive Richard Agar followed a Barry Eaton kick that bamboozled Stuart Donlan and Paul Wingfield. Eaton missed the conversion but added a 19th minute penalty.
Defences were fierce with Tau Liku and Street topping the workload for Leigh and Rose and Shayne Williams doing the same for Dewsbury.
The Rams lead stretched to 12-0 after 23 minutes when former York player Damian Ball finished a crisp passing move on the left. When fullback Brendan Williams crossed on 31 minutes, it looked like another 50 point defeat was on the cards. Eaton increased Dewsbury's lead to 20 points with another penalty four minutes from the break.
This seemed to spark Leigh into action as John Gunning and James Arkwright worked a run-around before Arkwright's half break put Anthony Murray in the clear. Rams winger Bailey chased back, hauling Murray down a metre short of the line and forcing him to lose possession.
Leigh were not finished and after a sustained spell of pressure Arkwright and Gunning created the gap for Donlan to dive over by the posts. Paul Wingfield converted and Leigh finished the half 6-20 behind.
Dewsbury took advantage of Leigh's sluggish start to the second half when fullback Williams added his second try after just 4 minutes.
The Rams should have extended their lead two minutes later when Bailey was held up over the line. A concerted spell of pressure resulted in 18 consecutive tackles for the Rams before Andy Fairclough's timely interception.
Street's yellow card came after a high tackle. This seemed to have a positive effect as replacements Nick Jenkins, Patel and Phil Kendrick started to impose themselves on the game.
Patel was instrumental in the next Leigh try as his cut out pass put Kendrick into a yawning hole for the ex Widnes back to speed through from 30 metres for the score.
Leigh were defiant as Dewsbury tried to make the extra man count. Bailey was denied a certain score by a forward pass and Eaton was brought to ground just short.
Tim Street's return again gave Leigh impetus as Andy Fairclough took a quick tap penalty. This saw the centre brush aside two attempted tackles in a fifteen metre charge. The Centurions continued to press but were reduced to 12 men when Street was sent off for dissent after receiving a high looking tackle.
Still the Centurions refused to buckle and they scored a disputed try two minutes from time to Fairclough. This was not quite enough for victory as the Rams clinical first half performance created the backbone to a 26-18 victory.
Although defeated, Leigh fans were optimistic after this battling performance gave further indication that the Centurions had finally started to come to terms with life in Division One.
By Dave Parkinson
The inspirational Tim Street revealed both sides of his character in a seesaw tussle at Ram Stadium.
Easily the best forward on the field, the combative Street was sinbinned on 56 minutes, and then dismissed three minutes from the end.
Despite the loss of their club captain, Leigh and the returning Safraz Patel gave Dewsbury a real fright in the second half.
Patel, four games into his comeback following major shoulder surgery, added his usual measure of enthusiasm and produced some nice touches in his first top grade game since a pre-season friendly with Wigan.
Dewsbury made a solid start to the match and registered their first points when impressive Richard Agar followed a Barry Eaton kick that bamboozled Stuart Donlan and Paul Wingfield. Eaton missed the conversion but added a 19th minute penalty.
Defences were fierce with Tau Liku and Street topping the workload for Leigh and Rose and Shayne Williams doing the same for Dewsbury.
The Rams lead stretched to 12-0 after 23 minutes when former York player Damian Ball finished a crisp passing move on the left. When fullback Brendan Williams crossed on 31 minutes, it looked like another 50 point defeat was on the cards. Eaton increased Dewsbury's lead to 20 points with another penalty four minutes from the break.
This seemed to spark Leigh into action as John Gunning and James Arkwright worked a run-around before Arkwright's half break put Anthony Murray in the clear. Rams winger Bailey chased back, hauling Murray down a metre short of the line and forcing him to lose possession.
Leigh were not finished and after a sustained spell of pressure Arkwright and Gunning created the gap for Donlan to dive over by the posts. Paul Wingfield converted and Leigh finished the half 6-20 behind.
Dewsbury took advantage of Leigh's sluggish start to the second half when fullback Williams added his second try after just 4 minutes.
The Rams should have extended their lead two minutes later when Bailey was held up over the line. A concerted spell of pressure resulted in 18 consecutive tackles for the Rams before Andy Fairclough's timely interception.
Street's yellow card came after a high tackle. This seemed to have a positive effect as replacements Nick Jenkins, Patel and Phil Kendrick started to impose themselves on the game.
Patel was instrumental in the next Leigh try as his cut out pass put Kendrick into a yawning hole for the ex Widnes back to speed through from 30 metres for the score.
Leigh were defiant as Dewsbury tried to make the extra man count. Bailey was denied a certain score by a forward pass and Eaton was brought to ground just short.
Tim Street's return again gave Leigh impetus as Andy Fairclough took a quick tap penalty. This saw the centre brush aside two attempted tackles in a fifteen metre charge. The Centurions continued to press but were reduced to 12 men when Street was sent off for dissent after receiving a high looking tackle.
Still the Centurions refused to buckle and they scored a disputed try two minutes from time to Fairclough. This was not quite enough for victory as the Rams clinical first half performance created the backbone to a 26-18 victory.
Although defeated, Leigh fans were optimistic after this battling performance gave further indication that the Centurions had finally started to come to terms with life in Division One.
1998 Season Reports: ROCHDALE HORNETS 28 LEIGH CENTURIONS 10
Rochdale Hornets 28 Centurions 10
By Dave Parkinson
Hornets Yorkshire connection of player-coach Deryck Fox and former Leeds hooker Mick Shaw had too much guile for Leigh at Spotland Stadium. Both played important roles as Rochdale achieved successive victories for the first time in 1998 and left Leigh three points adrift at the foot of the table.
This reversal brought a depressing ninth consecutive defeat for the Centurions, but in the process wiped memories of the 20-64 pummelling by the Hornets just a month earlier.
Despite the final score, there was little to choose between the packs, but Hornets with the likes of Fox, Paul Topping, Shaw and Willie Swann in their line-up had more far more attacking organisation.
Leigh began the match brightly and thought they had scored the first points of the game on five minutes when teenage threequarter, Stuart Dickinson showed strength to brush Jason Green's attempted tackle aside before handing the ball for Anthony Murray to dive over. Centurion celebrations were cut short when referee Ronnie Laughton disallowed the try because of a forward pass.
Rochdale swept upfield with four penalties and Deryck Fox adding the first of six goals in the seventh minute. Shortly after, ex-Leigh captain Topping claimed Hornets first try when a Fox crossfield kick caused panic in the defence and Ken Kerr sent his loose forward in at the corner.
Leigh roared back with Anthony Murray, Tim Street and Tau Liku well to the fore. Hornets defence was heroic as Leigh pounded the line and forced 18 consecutive tackles at one point. The pressure finally told in the 26th minute when Keiron Purtill slid a grubber kick to the in-goal area. On-loan fullback Coult misjudged the ball and James Arkwright took advantage of the situation for an opportunist score.
The scores were level for just five minutes. Leigh attacked when Purtill hoisted a towering crossfield bomb but former Keighley winger Andy Eyres caught on the full before dodging an Andy Fairclough challenge and setting off on a sixty metre run that brought Spotland to life.
The Centurions tried to settle into a defensive pattern but Hornets had gained the initiative. Shaw took full advantage of slack marker play to crash over, amid cries for a double movement.
Stuart Donlan kept Rochdale at bay with two superb try saving tackles in the space of sixty seconds before Centurion discipline lapsed before halftime. Tim Street dumped Topping in a late challenge that saw the Leigh player sinbinned for a fifth time in 1998. Fox missed the goal but made amends with another penalty, the final kick of the half to ensure Hornets an eight point cushion.
Leigh made a customary slow start to the second half as full strength Hornets looked to capitalise on Street's absence. Another darting run by livewire Shaw put Rochdale in a position where Fox created the opening for Martin Bunce to finish from ten metres.
Shaw lost possession over the tryline before Ken Kerr increased Hornets lead with a 54th minute touchdown. Fox converted another penalty on the hour to make it a commanding 28-6 lead.
Leigh then enjoyed their best spell of the match in the final twenty minutes but could only breach Hornets defence once when Donlan sliced through the smallest of gaps and carried two defenders over the line in determined fashion.
Rochdale were made to work much harder for the points than the score suggests but the backline and half-backs did not shine on a dismal July afternoon more reminiscent of October.
By Dave Parkinson
Hornets Yorkshire connection of player-coach Deryck Fox and former Leeds hooker Mick Shaw had too much guile for Leigh at Spotland Stadium. Both played important roles as Rochdale achieved successive victories for the first time in 1998 and left Leigh three points adrift at the foot of the table.
This reversal brought a depressing ninth consecutive defeat for the Centurions, but in the process wiped memories of the 20-64 pummelling by the Hornets just a month earlier.
Despite the final score, there was little to choose between the packs, but Hornets with the likes of Fox, Paul Topping, Shaw and Willie Swann in their line-up had more far more attacking organisation.
Leigh began the match brightly and thought they had scored the first points of the game on five minutes when teenage threequarter, Stuart Dickinson showed strength to brush Jason Green's attempted tackle aside before handing the ball for Anthony Murray to dive over. Centurion celebrations were cut short when referee Ronnie Laughton disallowed the try because of a forward pass.
Rochdale swept upfield with four penalties and Deryck Fox adding the first of six goals in the seventh minute. Shortly after, ex-Leigh captain Topping claimed Hornets first try when a Fox crossfield kick caused panic in the defence and Ken Kerr sent his loose forward in at the corner.
Leigh roared back with Anthony Murray, Tim Street and Tau Liku well to the fore. Hornets defence was heroic as Leigh pounded the line and forced 18 consecutive tackles at one point. The pressure finally told in the 26th minute when Keiron Purtill slid a grubber kick to the in-goal area. On-loan fullback Coult misjudged the ball and James Arkwright took advantage of the situation for an opportunist score.
The scores were level for just five minutes. Leigh attacked when Purtill hoisted a towering crossfield bomb but former Keighley winger Andy Eyres caught on the full before dodging an Andy Fairclough challenge and setting off on a sixty metre run that brought Spotland to life.
The Centurions tried to settle into a defensive pattern but Hornets had gained the initiative. Shaw took full advantage of slack marker play to crash over, amid cries for a double movement.
Stuart Donlan kept Rochdale at bay with two superb try saving tackles in the space of sixty seconds before Centurion discipline lapsed before halftime. Tim Street dumped Topping in a late challenge that saw the Leigh player sinbinned for a fifth time in 1998. Fox missed the goal but made amends with another penalty, the final kick of the half to ensure Hornets an eight point cushion.
Leigh made a customary slow start to the second half as full strength Hornets looked to capitalise on Street's absence. Another darting run by livewire Shaw put Rochdale in a position where Fox created the opening for Martin Bunce to finish from ten metres.
Shaw lost possession over the tryline before Ken Kerr increased Hornets lead with a 54th minute touchdown. Fox converted another penalty on the hour to make it a commanding 28-6 lead.
Leigh then enjoyed their best spell of the match in the final twenty minutes but could only breach Hornets defence once when Donlan sliced through the smallest of gaps and carried two defenders over the line in determined fashion.
Rochdale were made to work much harder for the points than the score suggests but the backline and half-backs did not shine on a dismal July afternoon more reminiscent of October.
1998 Season Reports: LEIGH CENTURIONS 28 SWINTON LIONS 34
Leigh Centurions 28 - 34 Swinton Lions
By Dave Parkinson
Swinton coach Les Holliday was not impressed as his lacklustre Lions scraped a victory in the local derby with struggling Leigh Centurions.
Leigh made an unusually solid start as Andy Pucill, Tim Street and Paul Norman took the game to their opponents. Despite this early pressure Leigh had to wait until the twelth minute for the first points.
Jason Donohue, celebrating his loan extension took advantage of slack marking, skipping past two defenders, before racing through from 30 metres.
Swinton replied when full back Evans joined the line and slipped out of Phil Kendricks's tackle for a converted score. Three minutes later, a clever kick from Ian Watson found Price-Jones unmarked in the corner. When substitute Coley dragged two defenders over the line on 26 minutes, Leigh looked to be heading for another heavy defeat.
Radney Bowker, Leigh's 19 year-old prospect, dragged the Centurions back into contention with a superb try. Supporting a Kendrick break, Bowker took the ball before turning both full back and winger inside-out and sprinting clear from 25 metres.
In the final minutes of the first half, tempers frayed and Ian Blease was penalised for use of a forearm.
Former Leigh player Jimmy Veikoso sparked the game into action on the second play of the new half with a midfield break. Gartland and Watson exchanged passes before Andy Craig cut inside to finish after just ninety seconds.
On 45 minutes, Anthony Murray was impeded when supporting a Kendrick break. Veteran forward Paul Hulme was despatched to the sinbin for a professional foul.
Leigh ignored the kick for goal and decided to push for a try. From the tap, drives from Andy Grundy and John Costello set the position for Tim Street to offload to Andy Pucill. The former Swinton prop stepped out of two tackles before drawing the fullback and putting Murray over for his 11th try of the season.
Donohue was the architect, and scorer of the next Leigh try. The Centurion halfback hoisted a swirling kick that was fumbled by Jimmy Evans. Murray swooped on the ball and three plays later Donohue forced his way over from dummy half. Unfortunately, Wingfield struck the post with his conversion and Leigh held a slender 22-20 lead.
Inspired, the Centurions tried, and won a short kick off. Costello caught the ball on the full and drove to the Lions 20 metre line. A quick play-the-ball should have created the time for Murray to exploit a shocked Swinton defence, but he dropped the ball and the impetus was lost.
Paul Barrow regained the lead for Swinton on 56 minutes after a seven pass movement on the last tackle. Gartland converted and added a penalty five minutes later. It was then the turn of impressive scrum half Ian Watson and he capped a good performance with the next Lions try.
Despite being twelve points in arrears, Leigh refused to give in. This persistence finally paid off when Bowker's brilliant pass put Kendrick over. Wingfield converted superbly from the touchline.
The final ten minutes brought drama to the 1,050 diehards in the crowd. Leigh had a great opportunity on 75 minutes when Kendrick split the defence from halfway only to be hauled back short. Sensing he had support, he tried to lay the ball back, rugby union style but a relieved Jimmy Evans dropped on the ball.
Leigh were awarded a succession of late penalties that kept the pressure on Swinton, but a combination of poor execution and excellent defence kept the Centurions at bay.
As the hooter sounded Leigh were still in posession and slid a dangerous grubber kick into the in-goal area, Stuart Donlan and David Hill made valiant dives but Lions sub Tommy Hodgkinson got there first and forced the ball out of play.
Although Swinton were worthy winners in the end, Leigh contributed fully to a superb advert for Rugby League. Tim Street was again outstanding for Leigh, while Jason Donohue enjoyed his best game since rejoining the club.
By Dave Parkinson
Swinton coach Les Holliday was not impressed as his lacklustre Lions scraped a victory in the local derby with struggling Leigh Centurions.
Leigh made an unusually solid start as Andy Pucill, Tim Street and Paul Norman took the game to their opponents. Despite this early pressure Leigh had to wait until the twelth minute for the first points.
Jason Donohue, celebrating his loan extension took advantage of slack marking, skipping past two defenders, before racing through from 30 metres.
Swinton replied when full back Evans joined the line and slipped out of Phil Kendricks's tackle for a converted score. Three minutes later, a clever kick from Ian Watson found Price-Jones unmarked in the corner. When substitute Coley dragged two defenders over the line on 26 minutes, Leigh looked to be heading for another heavy defeat.
Radney Bowker, Leigh's 19 year-old prospect, dragged the Centurions back into contention with a superb try. Supporting a Kendrick break, Bowker took the ball before turning both full back and winger inside-out and sprinting clear from 25 metres.
In the final minutes of the first half, tempers frayed and Ian Blease was penalised for use of a forearm.
Former Leigh player Jimmy Veikoso sparked the game into action on the second play of the new half with a midfield break. Gartland and Watson exchanged passes before Andy Craig cut inside to finish after just ninety seconds.
On 45 minutes, Anthony Murray was impeded when supporting a Kendrick break. Veteran forward Paul Hulme was despatched to the sinbin for a professional foul.
Leigh ignored the kick for goal and decided to push for a try. From the tap, drives from Andy Grundy and John Costello set the position for Tim Street to offload to Andy Pucill. The former Swinton prop stepped out of two tackles before drawing the fullback and putting Murray over for his 11th try of the season.
Donohue was the architect, and scorer of the next Leigh try. The Centurion halfback hoisted a swirling kick that was fumbled by Jimmy Evans. Murray swooped on the ball and three plays later Donohue forced his way over from dummy half. Unfortunately, Wingfield struck the post with his conversion and Leigh held a slender 22-20 lead.
Inspired, the Centurions tried, and won a short kick off. Costello caught the ball on the full and drove to the Lions 20 metre line. A quick play-the-ball should have created the time for Murray to exploit a shocked Swinton defence, but he dropped the ball and the impetus was lost.
Paul Barrow regained the lead for Swinton on 56 minutes after a seven pass movement on the last tackle. Gartland converted and added a penalty five minutes later. It was then the turn of impressive scrum half Ian Watson and he capped a good performance with the next Lions try.
Despite being twelve points in arrears, Leigh refused to give in. This persistence finally paid off when Bowker's brilliant pass put Kendrick over. Wingfield converted superbly from the touchline.
The final ten minutes brought drama to the 1,050 diehards in the crowd. Leigh had a great opportunity on 75 minutes when Kendrick split the defence from halfway only to be hauled back short. Sensing he had support, he tried to lay the ball back, rugby union style but a relieved Jimmy Evans dropped on the ball.
Leigh were awarded a succession of late penalties that kept the pressure on Swinton, but a combination of poor execution and excellent defence kept the Centurions at bay.
As the hooter sounded Leigh were still in posession and slid a dangerous grubber kick into the in-goal area, Stuart Donlan and David Hill made valiant dives but Lions sub Tommy Hodgkinson got there first and forced the ball out of play.
Although Swinton were worthy winners in the end, Leigh contributed fully to a superb advert for Rugby League. Tim Street was again outstanding for Leigh, while Jason Donohue enjoyed his best game since rejoining the club.
1998 Season Reports: LEIGH CENTURIONS 16 FEATHERSTONE ROVERS 48
Leigh Centurions 16 - 48 Featherstone Rovers
By Dave Parkinson
Leighs confidence draining run continued as Featherstone became the latest team to benefit from a generous defence. Rovers scored 8 tries in all, but with more clinical finishing could have had several more. All too often the Centurions sat back instead of incorporating the Australian "in your face" style of defending.
Rovers capitalised on a customery slow start from the Centurions with an early penalty before Richard Chapman punished poor defence to crash over from close range. Ty Fallins converted and supported an Irwin break to cross under the posts on 18 minutes.
Tim Street, so often a source of inspiration, dragged the Centurions back into the game with a barnstorming drive that led to Andy Pucill being held over the line. From the possession Leigh worked the ball wide for ShaunGeritas to then send Street over on 22 minutes.
The Centurions self belief temporarily returned with that move and they continued to press for further points as Geritas was held over the line. Rovers rearguard held firm in the face of some excellent pressure.
Paul Wingfield added a penalty two minutes before halftime, but this was all Leigh had to show for a good second quarter.
Rovers came out for the second half, a motivated unit and blasted Leigh with a three try burst. Prop Stuart Dickens (2) and young winger Karl Pratt capitalised on sloppy defence in the first ten minutes of the period, stretching a 14-6 interval lead to an unasailable 32-6.
Leigh hit back as Street marauded upfield with a 40 metre bust. Quick play saw Leigh work the overlap but Dave Ingram was forced into touch just short of the line.
On the hour Rovers hooker Chapman dummied and broke from acting halfback before handing on to centre Kimmell to score a converted try.
The Centurions rallied and Wingfield got his reward. He took the ball 15 metres out and the winger shrugged off three attempted tackles to cross beneath the posts.
On 73 minutes, Rovers made it 42-12 when the ball was again pushed wide and David Ingram was left stranded as Kimmell scooted over. With the game gone, Leigh pushed hard for a score. John Gunning added the consolation with an arcing 15metre surge that caught Featherstone unaware.
It was perhaps fitting that the outstanding Chapman had the final word, supporting a fine break from Slater. Fallins added his eighth goal to ensure a convincing 48-16 victory in front of 935 spectators.
By Dave Parkinson
Leighs confidence draining run continued as Featherstone became the latest team to benefit from a generous defence. Rovers scored 8 tries in all, but with more clinical finishing could have had several more. All too often the Centurions sat back instead of incorporating the Australian "in your face" style of defending.
Rovers capitalised on a customery slow start from the Centurions with an early penalty before Richard Chapman punished poor defence to crash over from close range. Ty Fallins converted and supported an Irwin break to cross under the posts on 18 minutes.
Tim Street, so often a source of inspiration, dragged the Centurions back into the game with a barnstorming drive that led to Andy Pucill being held over the line. From the possession Leigh worked the ball wide for ShaunGeritas to then send Street over on 22 minutes.
The Centurions self belief temporarily returned with that move and they continued to press for further points as Geritas was held over the line. Rovers rearguard held firm in the face of some excellent pressure.
Paul Wingfield added a penalty two minutes before halftime, but this was all Leigh had to show for a good second quarter.
Rovers came out for the second half, a motivated unit and blasted Leigh with a three try burst. Prop Stuart Dickens (2) and young winger Karl Pratt capitalised on sloppy defence in the first ten minutes of the period, stretching a 14-6 interval lead to an unasailable 32-6.
Leigh hit back as Street marauded upfield with a 40 metre bust. Quick play saw Leigh work the overlap but Dave Ingram was forced into touch just short of the line.
On the hour Rovers hooker Chapman dummied and broke from acting halfback before handing on to centre Kimmell to score a converted try.
The Centurions rallied and Wingfield got his reward. He took the ball 15 metres out and the winger shrugged off three attempted tackles to cross beneath the posts.
On 73 minutes, Rovers made it 42-12 when the ball was again pushed wide and David Ingram was left stranded as Kimmell scooted over. With the game gone, Leigh pushed hard for a score. John Gunning added the consolation with an arcing 15metre surge that caught Featherstone unaware.
It was perhaps fitting that the outstanding Chapman had the final word, supporting a fine break from Slater. Fallins added his eighth goal to ensure a convincing 48-16 victory in front of 935 spectators.
1998 Season Reports: LEIGH CENTURIONS 22 HULL KINGSTON ROVERS 14
Leigh Centurions 22 - 14 Hull KR
By Dave Parkinson.
Against all the odds bottom of the table Leigh turned the form book on it's head and showed more spirit than their Humberside bogey team in every aspect of play.
Signs were ominous as Hull KR outmuscled the Leigh pack in the first 15 minutes with little hooker Mike Dixon at the hub of everything. Despite this early pressure, all Rovers had to show for their efforts was a try to the prolific Gary Atkins converted by Mike Fletcher.
As the game entered its second quarter, Leigh grew in confidence with debut halfback James Arkwright keeping a tight watch over PNG superstar Stanley Gene.
Anthony Murray brought the crowd to life, taking the ball from dummy half and accelerating through a hole on the blindside before finding Hadcroft in support. In a 30 metre move Alan Hadcroft drew the defence before sending Jason O'Loughlin galloping over for six points.
Paul Wingfield briefly put Leigh in front with a well struck penalty before another try from Atkins gave Rovers a narrow 10-8 advantage at the break.
Leigh made a good start to the second half, and scoring two tries in the first 8 minutes. It was a direct punishment for Wayne Jackson's lapse of discipline late in the first half that earned the Rovers player a spell in the sinbin. Those tries also established a matchwinning lead.
The Centurions attacked Rovers and on the last tackle, Murray found Phil Kendrick and the big centre was able to offload for Arkwright to skip through a static line for a clinical score. Wingfield added the extras and converted the best try of the game on 48 minutes.
On-form Alan Hadcroft carved his way down the wing in a 40 metre break and sent Kendrick clear with a well judged pass.
Nine minutes later, Leigh almost scored again when a thunderous run from Tau Liku was supported by Keiron Purtill. The referee spotted a marginal forward pass however and disallowed the try.
Mike Bibby then went over for Rovers.
Leigh tried to close the game down, twice missing that all important field-goal.
Hull KR continued to threaten but Leigh's defence held firm for the last few minutes with David Whittle and Tim Street outstanding. They were closely followed by consistent captain John Costello and the irrepressible Murray, who caused problems for Rovers all afternoon.
By Dave Parkinson.
Against all the odds bottom of the table Leigh turned the form book on it's head and showed more spirit than their Humberside bogey team in every aspect of play.
Signs were ominous as Hull KR outmuscled the Leigh pack in the first 15 minutes with little hooker Mike Dixon at the hub of everything. Despite this early pressure, all Rovers had to show for their efforts was a try to the prolific Gary Atkins converted by Mike Fletcher.
As the game entered its second quarter, Leigh grew in confidence with debut halfback James Arkwright keeping a tight watch over PNG superstar Stanley Gene.
Anthony Murray brought the crowd to life, taking the ball from dummy half and accelerating through a hole on the blindside before finding Hadcroft in support. In a 30 metre move Alan Hadcroft drew the defence before sending Jason O'Loughlin galloping over for six points.
Paul Wingfield briefly put Leigh in front with a well struck penalty before another try from Atkins gave Rovers a narrow 10-8 advantage at the break.
Leigh made a good start to the second half, and scoring two tries in the first 8 minutes. It was a direct punishment for Wayne Jackson's lapse of discipline late in the first half that earned the Rovers player a spell in the sinbin. Those tries also established a matchwinning lead.
The Centurions attacked Rovers and on the last tackle, Murray found Phil Kendrick and the big centre was able to offload for Arkwright to skip through a static line for a clinical score. Wingfield added the extras and converted the best try of the game on 48 minutes.
On-form Alan Hadcroft carved his way down the wing in a 40 metre break and sent Kendrick clear with a well judged pass.
Nine minutes later, Leigh almost scored again when a thunderous run from Tau Liku was supported by Keiron Purtill. The referee spotted a marginal forward pass however and disallowed the try.
Mike Bibby then went over for Rovers.
Leigh tried to close the game down, twice missing that all important field-goal.
Hull KR continued to threaten but Leigh's defence held firm for the last few minutes with David Whittle and Tim Street outstanding. They were closely followed by consistent captain John Costello and the irrepressible Murray, who caused problems for Rovers all afternoon.
1998 Season Reports: SWINTON 32 LEIGH 22
Swinton Lions 32 - 22 Leigh Centurions
A superb second half fightback failed to stop Leigh sliding to defeat in the good Friday derby at Gigg Lane.
Keith Latham made several bold changes to his line up, selecting Donohue at scrum half and handing a debuts to new signing Keiron Purtill and loan pair Dave Whittle and Andy Grundy.
As the Centurions were introducing the newcomers, Swinton opened at breakneck pace. Hooker Cannon punished slack marker play to crash in after just 180 seconds. By the 14th minute a brace of tries from Paul Barrow saw Leigh trail 0-14.
Twenty minutes had elapsed before Leigh settled into a pattern. John Costello and Stuart Donlan created an opening before Alan Hadcroft showed power on the flank to cross after 22 minutes. Steve Garces almost scored a wonder try three minutes later but his chip kick rolled over the deadball line.
Just as Leigh started to make a game of it, the Lions hit back with a spell of pressure that resulted in a converted try for Casey. Four minutes from the interval a tired defence allowed Ian Watson to break through and send Gartland over for 6 points.
At 26-6 Leigh were well out of the game, but the spirit showed in the second half was tremendous as on loan forwards Grundy and Whittle combined with the irrepressible Tim Street to provide a platform for the class of Donlan to shine in the backs.
Alan Hadcroft scored first in the second half, showing determination following a strong Costello burst and a neat pass from Donlan.
Ten minutes into the new half Paul Wingfield made a long break and debutant Purtill was forced out just short. Three minutes later, Leigh made amends as Costello and O'Loughlin drew the defence for Wingfield to cross in the corner. Unfortunateley the on-loan winger had an off day with the boot, landing just one goal from five, a conversion to the 57th minute touchdown from Anthony Murray.
As Leigh threatened their greatest comeback in history, Swinton extended their lead when a simple tackle was missed and former Rochdale standoff Gartland scored his second try on 65 minutes.
Leigh kept plugging away and were rewarded 10 minutes from time when Murray and Donohue combined on the last tackle to put Dave Hill in at the left corner.
Unfortunately it was too little, too late.
A superb second half fightback failed to stop Leigh sliding to defeat in the good Friday derby at Gigg Lane.
Keith Latham made several bold changes to his line up, selecting Donohue at scrum half and handing a debuts to new signing Keiron Purtill and loan pair Dave Whittle and Andy Grundy.
As the Centurions were introducing the newcomers, Swinton opened at breakneck pace. Hooker Cannon punished slack marker play to crash in after just 180 seconds. By the 14th minute a brace of tries from Paul Barrow saw Leigh trail 0-14.
Twenty minutes had elapsed before Leigh settled into a pattern. John Costello and Stuart Donlan created an opening before Alan Hadcroft showed power on the flank to cross after 22 minutes. Steve Garces almost scored a wonder try three minutes later but his chip kick rolled over the deadball line.
Just as Leigh started to make a game of it, the Lions hit back with a spell of pressure that resulted in a converted try for Casey. Four minutes from the interval a tired defence allowed Ian Watson to break through and send Gartland over for 6 points.
At 26-6 Leigh were well out of the game, but the spirit showed in the second half was tremendous as on loan forwards Grundy and Whittle combined with the irrepressible Tim Street to provide a platform for the class of Donlan to shine in the backs.
Alan Hadcroft scored first in the second half, showing determination following a strong Costello burst and a neat pass from Donlan.
Ten minutes into the new half Paul Wingfield made a long break and debutant Purtill was forced out just short. Three minutes later, Leigh made amends as Costello and O'Loughlin drew the defence for Wingfield to cross in the corner. Unfortunateley the on-loan winger had an off day with the boot, landing just one goal from five, a conversion to the 57th minute touchdown from Anthony Murray.
As Leigh threatened their greatest comeback in history, Swinton extended their lead when a simple tackle was missed and former Rochdale standoff Gartland scored his second try on 65 minutes.
Leigh kept plugging away and were rewarded 10 minutes from time when Murray and Donohue combined on the last tackle to put Dave Hill in at the left corner.
Unfortunately it was too little, too late.
2009 Season Reports: DONCASTER 18 LEIGH CENTURIONS 24
DONCASTER 18 LEIGH CENTURIONS 24
DAVE PARKINSON at the Keepmoat Stadium.
Leigh Centurions claimed their second win of the Co-operative Championship season with a narrow victory at Doncasters impressive Keepmoat Stadium.
Winning coach Neil Kelly said that his side “needed to stop shooting itself in the foot” after they built a 24-6 lead only to be left clinging on at full-time.
He added, “We played well for fifty to sixty minutes with the ball and on defence but the age old problem with Leigh is that we shoot ourselves in the foot by giving away so many penalties.”
There was little between the two teams in the first half when for the first ten minutes Leigh remained error free without troubling the Doncaster try-line. This period was dominated by an old fashioned armwrestle between the two front rows. Andy Hobson and Dave McConnell shone for the Centurions while Craig Cook and former Wakefield Academy product Mark Castle were among the top performers for the Dons.
It was the hosts that threatened first when former Hull KR threequarter Andreas Bauer threaded a kick that forced an error and then clearance from Dave Alstead. Lee Marsh, in for his first game of the season then sparked a move at the other end when his wide pass put Stuart Donlan, then Alstead away only for an excellent tackle to force the winger out of play.
Neither side seemed able to capitalise until the 22nd minute when Ian Watson struck a 40-20. Straight from possession, Marsh collected a pass from his bootlaces and Mort was on hand to go over from his astute offload. The fullback struck the conversion and then added a superb finish after Danny Meekin and the impressive Kurt Haggerty forged an opening and Mort sped through in support. 12-0 was soon 12-6when following a short spell of pressure, Doncaster got over by the posts through Matt Carbutt for Kyle Briggs to convert.
Just before the break, Leigh grabbed their third try when Watson found Haggerty and his strength took him through an attempted tackle and over the line.
Within two minutes of the start of the second half, the Centurions added their fourth try when Chris Hill did all the running and Andy Hobson touched down. Mort added his fourth goal and Doncaster went on the attack with six minutes of continuous pressure. Wayne Riett, Castle and Briggs all went close but the defence held firm. Leigh thought they had grabbed another try when Alstead got in at the corner following a 30 metre surge from a Marsh pass. The final ball was deemed forward and the visitors were reduced to twelve men a minute later when Mike Morrison was sinbinned for a high tackle.
Doncaster spied their chance to attack and after a couple of destructive runs from the likes of Al Rounding and Nathan Freer, Craig Cook was alert at dummy half to nip through for the score. Briggs converted and the game was really put in the melting pot after 67 minutes when Andreas Bauer stole a ball from his opposite number Mort and ran 40 metres to score. Briggs again goaled and the Centurions had defend for another period before eventually claiming the win.
Dons coach Tony Miller said: “It was a winnable game for us but individual errors prevented us from claiming the three points. We have a few players back in contention now and this will only see us get stronger.”
GAMEBREAKER: The try just after halftime which left the brave Dons with too much to do
GAMESTAR: Anthony Rourke had an excellent game before leaving the field injured, special mentions for Kurt Haggerty and Dons halfback Paul Handforth who never stopped scheming.
DONCASTER
3 Andreas Bauer
26 Gaz Carey
19 Ryan Steen
34 Luke May
5 Wayne Riette
6 Kyle Briggs
7 Paul Handforth
28 Jamie Bovill
9 Craig Cook
15 Mark Castle
11 Peter Green
17 Ross Divorty
13 Josh Weeden
SUBS (ALL USED)
22 Andy Speak
29 Matt Carbutt
16 Nathan Freer
27 Al Rounding
Tries: Carbutt (29), Cook (56), Bauer (67)
Goals: Briggs 3/3
Field Goal:
On Report:
Sin bin: (TIME) – offence
Dismissals:
CENTURIONS
14 Ian Mort
2 Dave Alstead
1 Stuart Donlan
15 Adam Higson
3 Steve Maden
17 Lee Marsh
7 Ian Watson
8 Andy Hobson
9 Dave McConnell
10 Mike Morrison
29 Lee Wingfield
12 James Taylor
27 Anthony Rourke
Subs (All used)
4 Tony Stewart
40 Kurt Haggerty
28 Danny Meekin
10 Mike Morrison
Tries: Mort (23, 25), Haggerty (39), Hobson (42)
Goals: Mort 4/4
Field goal:
On Report:
Sin bin: Morrison (55) – High Tackle
Dismissal:
Rugby Leaguer & League Express Men of the Match
Doncaster: Mark Castle
Leigh: Anthony Rourke
Penalty count: 12-3
Half-time: 18-6
Referee: Mr R Laughton
Attendance: 827
SCORING SEQUENCE:
0-6, 0-12, 6-12, 6-18, 6-24, 12-24, 18-24.
DAVE PARKINSON at the Keepmoat Stadium.
Leigh Centurions claimed their second win of the Co-operative Championship season with a narrow victory at Doncasters impressive Keepmoat Stadium.
Winning coach Neil Kelly said that his side “needed to stop shooting itself in the foot” after they built a 24-6 lead only to be left clinging on at full-time.
He added, “We played well for fifty to sixty minutes with the ball and on defence but the age old problem with Leigh is that we shoot ourselves in the foot by giving away so many penalties.”
There was little between the two teams in the first half when for the first ten minutes Leigh remained error free without troubling the Doncaster try-line. This period was dominated by an old fashioned armwrestle between the two front rows. Andy Hobson and Dave McConnell shone for the Centurions while Craig Cook and former Wakefield Academy product Mark Castle were among the top performers for the Dons.
It was the hosts that threatened first when former Hull KR threequarter Andreas Bauer threaded a kick that forced an error and then clearance from Dave Alstead. Lee Marsh, in for his first game of the season then sparked a move at the other end when his wide pass put Stuart Donlan, then Alstead away only for an excellent tackle to force the winger out of play.
Neither side seemed able to capitalise until the 22nd minute when Ian Watson struck a 40-20. Straight from possession, Marsh collected a pass from his bootlaces and Mort was on hand to go over from his astute offload. The fullback struck the conversion and then added a superb finish after Danny Meekin and the impressive Kurt Haggerty forged an opening and Mort sped through in support. 12-0 was soon 12-6when following a short spell of pressure, Doncaster got over by the posts through Matt Carbutt for Kyle Briggs to convert.
Just before the break, Leigh grabbed their third try when Watson found Haggerty and his strength took him through an attempted tackle and over the line.
Within two minutes of the start of the second half, the Centurions added their fourth try when Chris Hill did all the running and Andy Hobson touched down. Mort added his fourth goal and Doncaster went on the attack with six minutes of continuous pressure. Wayne Riett, Castle and Briggs all went close but the defence held firm. Leigh thought they had grabbed another try when Alstead got in at the corner following a 30 metre surge from a Marsh pass. The final ball was deemed forward and the visitors were reduced to twelve men a minute later when Mike Morrison was sinbinned for a high tackle.
Doncaster spied their chance to attack and after a couple of destructive runs from the likes of Al Rounding and Nathan Freer, Craig Cook was alert at dummy half to nip through for the score. Briggs converted and the game was really put in the melting pot after 67 minutes when Andreas Bauer stole a ball from his opposite number Mort and ran 40 metres to score. Briggs again goaled and the Centurions had defend for another period before eventually claiming the win.
Dons coach Tony Miller said: “It was a winnable game for us but individual errors prevented us from claiming the three points. We have a few players back in contention now and this will only see us get stronger.”
GAMEBREAKER: The try just after halftime which left the brave Dons with too much to do
GAMESTAR: Anthony Rourke had an excellent game before leaving the field injured, special mentions for Kurt Haggerty and Dons halfback Paul Handforth who never stopped scheming.
DONCASTER
3 Andreas Bauer
26 Gaz Carey
19 Ryan Steen
34 Luke May
5 Wayne Riette
6 Kyle Briggs
7 Paul Handforth
28 Jamie Bovill
9 Craig Cook
15 Mark Castle
11 Peter Green
17 Ross Divorty
13 Josh Weeden
SUBS (ALL USED)
22 Andy Speak
29 Matt Carbutt
16 Nathan Freer
27 Al Rounding
Tries: Carbutt (29), Cook (56), Bauer (67)
Goals: Briggs 3/3
Field Goal:
On Report:
Sin bin: (TIME) – offence
Dismissals:
CENTURIONS
14 Ian Mort
2 Dave Alstead
1 Stuart Donlan
15 Adam Higson
3 Steve Maden
17 Lee Marsh
7 Ian Watson
8 Andy Hobson
9 Dave McConnell
10 Mike Morrison
29 Lee Wingfield
12 James Taylor
27 Anthony Rourke
Subs (All used)
4 Tony Stewart
40 Kurt Haggerty
28 Danny Meekin
10 Mike Morrison
Tries: Mort (23, 25), Haggerty (39), Hobson (42)
Goals: Mort 4/4
Field goal:
On Report:
Sin bin: Morrison (55) – High Tackle
Dismissal:
Rugby Leaguer & League Express Men of the Match
Doncaster: Mark Castle
Leigh: Anthony Rourke
Penalty count: 12-3
Half-time: 18-6
Referee: Mr R Laughton
Attendance: 827
SCORING SEQUENCE:
0-6, 0-12, 6-12, 6-18, 6-24, 12-24, 18-24.
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