Leigh RUFC 27 v Manchester RUFC 3

Leigh took the maximum 5 league points from this vital encounter in North West 1.

The home team started like a house on fire and were quickly on the score sheet. A probing kick to the corner by Wilkinson, with a good chase from Dyson resulted in a try for young full back Elliott Ryan. Leigh continued this fast start and winger Adam Dyson was seeing plenty of the football. The forwards were to produce the next score when prop Tom Baker spun out of the tackle and plunged over.

As the half wore on Leigh were struggling to find the gaps, as Manchester showed great determination in defence. The final score of the half came after a strong run from winger Ross Shepherd. The ball was moved for centre Jason Carson to score wide right.

The second half saw Leigh again struggle to emulate the good play from earlier in the game. A series of penalties saw the visitors move upfield and kick a well deserved penalty. This seemed to inspire Leigh to action and sustained pressure resulted in a try for prop Matt Newton. Leigh were now back in control and finished with a try from Jimmy Wilkinson who jinked under the posts for Ryan to add the extras.