Kirkby Lonsdale 5--15 Leigh RUFC

Leigh banished their away-day blues with a dogged win in very muddy Cumbria. With a near full strength squad Leigh travelled with a more confident attitude. This confidence translated into an aggressive start as Leigh mounted an early attack after good work in the back division. Carson was stopped short, but good forward pressure won the early penalty. This was confidently converted by their promising young full-back Elliot Ryan.
Leigh were quickly into the attack again as their kick and chase won good ground. They battered the home line, as Houlton and Mckinstry went close. The important score came as big number 8 Calvin Crompton powered under the posts. The conversion by Ryan put Leigh well in the driving seat with a ten point lead on a deteriorating pitch.
The dog fight continued in the second period as the Leigh forwards maintained control. Kirkby, to their credit, tried to bring their pacy backs into the game, but the heavy conditions saw Leigh repeatedly nail their man behind the gain line. Leigh sealed the game on the hour mark as stand –off Wilkinson found Ryan with a long pass and a score in the corner. A late Kirkby try and the sin –binning of Penn were not able to dent the Leigh supremacy as they held on for a fine win.
This was an outstanding win for Leigh as their youngsters and veterans combined superbly. Special mention must go to flanker Morgan, who was outstanding in both defence and attack.