Leigh Centurions v BARROW RAIDERS
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Leigh Centurions v BARROW RAIDERS SUNDAY 7TH APRIL 2019 @ 3PM
FROM THE TOP
# LEYTHERS # OURTOWNOURCLUB
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# OURTOWNOURCLUB
April is a challenging month for all the
teams in the Championship, especially
those which have progressed into the fifth
round of the cup. Five games, including
This afternoon we extend a warm players I spoke to, with many appreciating two in four days over the Easter period,
welcome to the players, officials and the fast, full-sized playing surface and the will test the stamina and by the time May
supporters of Barrow Raiders as we opportunity to play an expansive game in comes along the Championship season
make a welcome return to LSV the ideal conditions against those that felt will be almost halfway through. We will
following our travels. Barrow’s experiencing those hard, unforgiving also have a clearer idea of the RFL’s plans
interest in the Coral Challenge Cup surfaces week on week would shorten for prospective new clubs in Ottowa and
ended last Sunday but they now have their playing careers in the long run. New York who have both expressed an
the 1895 Cup to look forward to later .............................................................. interest in joining the competition. No
in the season and an opportunity to Sheffield Eagles are nearly 20 years doubt the RFL will conduct a thorough
play at Wembley is a great incentive on from when they re-formed after audit to ascertain if they fit in with their
for all the clubs outside Super the old club ‘merged’ with strategy and objectives and the views of
League. Huddersfield Giants. I remember their the Super League clubs will also be vital.
It was great to see so many Leigh fans first game, at Victory Park Chorley Among the issues to be considered are if
make the trip across the Pennines for a just after Christmas in 1999. they help bring more fans, viewers,
second successive Sunday for our cup-tie It was the last ever game played in the players etc to the game or whether their
at Sheffield. The clash with Mother’s Day 1900s. Mark Aston remembers it too, for reliance on an already shrinking UK player
meant the following, understandably, was he lost three front teeth that day and it pool will lead to more players leaving
down on the usual numbers but we still was like starting out all over again just 18 English based clubs to join the adventure
boasted a travelling support that must be months after he’d reached the pinnacle for overseas and thus potentially weakening
the envy of many clubs. a player of lifting both the Lance Todd Super League and the Championship in
The scenes at the end as the players and Trophy and the Challenge Cup following the short run. There are many other
coaching staff came over to applaud the their epic Wembley win over Wigan. considerations with the potential for
fans again demonstrated the tremendous increased commercial deals and television
Aston, Keith Senior and the long-serving exposure balanced against other issues.
bond which has quickly developed official Dick Pepper, who has been
between the Centurions team of 2019 and involved with Eagles right back to their Among these are the effects of having full
supporters. John Duffy has assembled a foundation in 1984 personify the fighting time teams in part time leagues, the
team of players that wear their heart on spirit and determination of what remains a spend on players, where they play games
their sleeves and whose pride in playing club struggling to establish the game in a amd how they play games (block fixtures
for the club is evident in every soccer- dominated city. After a nomadic etc). The impact of travel on players and
performance. It was personified by Mitch existence they’ve finally laid down roots at the impact on the league structure (if a
Cox who produced a fine performance on the Olympic Legacy Park but the facilities limit, say, was placed on non-member
the wing and then had to rush off to are obviously still far from those which clubs in Super League then this may
commence a night shift at work. Such are would be expected from a professional impact on promotion and relegation). The
the sacrifices part-time players make for team playing in the Championship. I terms of entry and shares of distribution
the game they love. sincerely hope that the Eagles can build moneys and guarantees over financial
Looking at the lacerated knees and elbows and thrive because in Aston they have a viability. Key to it is assessing what have
of the players afterwards though was a leader with an indomitable spirit who Toronto brought to the table? Do the RFL
reminder of the perils lurking in an never gives in. His ability to assemble deem them a success? If so, what
apparently immaculate-looking 4g pitch competitive and talented teams on a statistics back that up?
and again makes you question whether relatively shoestring budget time and time ..............................................................
Rugby League should really be played on again is also admirable and despite the What’s evident to me talking to fans
these kinds of surfaces, which are many setbacks his Eagles have at Bradford and Sheffield recently is
increasingly popular for both training and encountered his love of Rugby League that many of our supporters love
matches. The jury seemed split among the remains undimmed. watching the club home and away
and while some may consider a one-
off trip to say Toronto it’s prohibitively
expensive to go every year.
Many complained that some
Championship clubs play Toronto in this
country- Sheffield are playing them at
London this weekend- but Leigh have to
go over to Canada at the height of the
summer. Unless there are compelling
reasons and evidence as to why it’ll
benefit the remaining Championship and
League One clubs and they can address
the many issues allowing them in would
bring it’s a no from me.
Team hug Enjoy the game
Mike Latham- Chairman
THE CENTURION • THE OFFICIAL MATCHDAY PROGRAMME OF LEIGH CENTURIONS RLFC 3
WHO’S WHO
COACH’S COLUMN
HONOURS
# LEYTHERS # OURTOWNOURCLUB
# OURTOWNOURCLUB # LEYTHERS # OURTOWNOURCLUB
# OURTOWNOURCLUB
AT LEIGH CENTURIONS
HEAD COACH JOHN DUFFY
Winter era
(1895-96 to 1995-96)
Championship Winners:
Owner Statistician 1905-06, 1981-82
Mr Derek Beaumont Mr Cliff Sumner Division Two Champions:
Operational Board Of Directors Social Media Manager 1977-78, 1985-86, 1988-89
Mr Michael Latham (Chairman) Mr Darren Lilly Challenge Cup Winners:
Mr Jason Huyton Retail Outlet Manager 1921, 1971
Mr Steve Hill Ms Gillian Jolley Lancashire Cup Winners: and there have been a lot of changes in scored showed great combination and
Chief Executive IT Manager 1952, 1955, 1970, 1981 that intervening period. invention and defensively we looked
Mr Matthew Chantler Mr Andrew Parkinson (runners-up 1909, 1920, 1922, 1949, What may be more relevant is a famous sound. We had to readjust after Stefan
Honorary Life President Club Ambassador 1951, 1963, 1969) cup win Leigh had as a part-time team Marsh pulled out with a knee injury in the
Mr Brian Bowman Mr Alex Murphy OBE BBC2 Floodlit Trophy Winners: back in 1996 when they went to Rovers warm-up and Andy Thornley switched to
Honorary Vice President Official Club Photographers 1969, 1972 (runners-up 1968, 1976) and pulled off a shock 24-0 victory. A lot centre and did a sterling job.
Mr Andy Burnham Mr Jerry Lyons South West Lancashire & Border of people still talk about that win and the It was a big game for Luke Adamson, the
Towns Cup Winners: 1901 way the fans went to the team hotel and 300th of his career and we marked the
Life Members SuperLeigh (Hilton Park Society) ITA TV Trophy runners-up 1955 cheered the players on to the bus as they feat with a special shirt presentation at
Mr Tommy Coleman Manager Summer era (1996 to date)
Dr Morris Doublet-Stewart Ms Christine Brown
made their way to the ground. A lot of training on Thursday. Luke’s been a great
Promotion to Super League: Leigh players that day like Paul Daniel, professional over the years having started
Mr Michael Latham Assistant Manager 2004,2016
Mr John Massey Mr Jonathan Simpkin Chris Wilkinson, Tau Liku and David out playing at Leigh East in the shadow of
League Leaders: ingram still watch the team regularly. This Hilton park. At Salford he made a
Mr Steve Openshaw Co-Ordinator
Premiership 2001, week a few of our older supporters have reputation as a tackling machine but his
Mr Fred Parkinson Mr Paul Robinson
National League One 2004, stopped me and talked about their game now is far more than that. You can
Mr Alan Platt
Mr Frank Taylor Leigh Community Trust
Championship 2014,2015,2016 memories of that day. see how much he is enjoying his rugby
Grand Final Winners: It was very pleasing to come away
Mr John Woods Programmes Director from Sheffield on Sunday evening We know where we’re at as a team and and playing alongside his brother Toby
Ms Hannah Forbes National League One 2004, and for Leigh. 300 games in the modern
Championship 2014 with a well-earned victory and with that’s why the second half at Bradford
Head Coach Community Manager game is a terrific achievement and Luke
(runners-up: Premiership 2000, 2002, it progression into the fifth round of was so disappointing as I felt we didn’t do
Mr John Duffy Ms Heather Parker-Preece can be rightly proud of that.
Assistant Coaches Youth Mental Health Officers National League One 2003) the Coral Challenge Cup. ourselves justice and allowed other
Mr Paul Anderson Mr Mick Nanyn National league Cup Winners: Our reward is a tie against a Super factors to take over. So that’s why it was It was a big day too for Jonny Pownall, his
Mr Micky Higham Mr Michael Ostick 2004, 2006, 2011, 2013 League club and it will be a great so good to convert another positive one hundredth game for his home town
(Strength & Conditioning) Mens Health Officer (runners-up 2003) experience for the players to test week’s training into a good 80-minute club. Jonny maybe fell out of love with the
Mr Jason Duffy Mr Ste Maden Trans-Pennine Cup Winners: themselves against a team from the elite performance last Sunday. game this past year or so and it’s been
CLUB RECORDS
Match Day Support Staff Sky Try Primary Lead Coach 2001 (runners-up 2000) competition. The lads will thrive playing a With Easter fast approaching it was rewarding to get him back playing at
Mr Simon Svabic (team manager) Tom Simms Super League outfit and we are looking necessary for player welfare to make the Leigh and seeing him enjoy his training
Mr Jack Inman (S&C) Inclusion Officer forward to a fast and fluent game at a Rovers tie a midweek one and allow the and matches once again. Earlier in the
Mr Dean Gaskell (wrestle coach) Carlie Unsworth good venue at Hull KR. maximum time to prepare for two games season Tom Spencer joined the 100 Club
Physiotherapist Autism Lead Sports Coach at Leigh and I know it’s something Jake
Mr Joe McLoughlin Vikki Courtman For Iain Thornley and Joe Cator it will be in four days against Widnes and
Highest Score For: Dewsbury. We recognise that this is far Emmitt has his eye on since coming back
Medical Support Veterans and Men’s Health Officer an opportunity to paly against their former to the club. It’s one of the first things he
Dr John Morgan - Club Doctor Dave Drury 92-2 v Keighley, 1986 club while several ex-Leigh players are in from ideal for supporters who have to
Highest Score Against: make a 200-mile round trip at night but mentioned when he re-signed.
Mr Adam Carrol l- Sports rehab Veterans Officer the Rovers ranks. It’s always good to go
Mr Sam Wicketts - physio student Grant Lane 4-94 vWorkington Town, 1995 back but Iain and Joe have now moved such are the crowded schedules and Though Rugby League remains a team
Ms Bev Gorringe- masseur Dance Practitioner Highest Home Attendance: on and are enjoying their time at Leigh. conflicting problems of the modern game. game it’s great to recognise individual
Kit Managers Michelle Mahony 31,326 v St Helens, 1953 For Leigh fans the ground holds special One thing I know is that as many Leigh achievements within the sport and reward
CONTACT DETAILS
Mr Frank Taylor - kit manager Autism Sports Coach Apprentice Highest Home Attendance at LSV: memories as it’s where they clinched fans as possible will make the trip to East players for reaching significant
Mr Sean Fairhurst - assistant kit manager TJ Richardson 10,556 v Batley Bulldogs, 2016 promotion back to Super League in 2016. Hull. Our away support is fantastic and milestones. They are the sort of things
GAME RECORDS But we are a different club altogether now we have taken several hundred and close that players look back on with pride when
Tries: 6 by Jack Wood in 1947 that sad day comes that you have to hang
to one thousand for some of our games
and Neil Turley in 2001 up your boots.
so far, which must be the envy of even
Goals: 15 by Mick Stacey in 1976
some Super League teams. The way the We’ll put thoughts of Hull KR to one side
Points: 42 by Neil Turley in 2004
Leigh Centurions or tweet us @LeighCenturions fans cheer on the boys at every game is this afternoon as we return to the green,
SEASONAL RECORDS
Leigh Sports Village Stadium, Tries: 55 by Neil Turley in 2001
really appreciated by us all and after the green grass of home and our fantastic
Email: disappointment of the Bradford game it facilities at LSV. It will be great for the
Sale Way, Leigh WN7 4JY Goals: 187 by Neil Turley in 2004
General Enquiries - was great to reward them with what was players to run out in front of the North
Telephone: 01942 487887 Points: 468 by Neil Turley in 2004
enquiries@leighrl .co.uk probably our most complete team Stand again. Barrow Raiders always pose
Commercial Sales: 01942 487898 CAREER RECORDS
Commercial Sales - performance of the season against the a tough test and have a vastly respected
Facebook: matthew.chantler@leighrl .co.uk Appearances: 503 by Albert Worrall
Tries: 189 by Mick Martyn Eagles. and knowledgeable coach in Paul Crarey
facebook.com/leighcenturionsfanpage Lottery so we will have to be at our best today.
lottery@leighrl. co.uk Goals: 1043 by Jimmy Ledgard Sheffield are a good, well coached team
Twitter: Points: 2492 by John Woods who have recruited well and they know Two points are always hard-earned in the
twitter.com/LeighCenturions how to play on that pitch. The conditions Betfred Championship and I expect no
are virtually week on week and as it’s full- different.
Luke Adamson 300 games size it means you have to be able to both Enjoy the game
attack and defend. Some of the tries we Duffs
THE CENTURION • THE OFFICIAL MATCHDAY PROGRAMME OF LEIGH CENTURIONS RLFC 5
CAPTAIN’S COLUMN
# LEYTHERS # OURTOWNOURCLUB
# OURTOWNOURCLUB
TEAM CAPTAIN MICKY HIGHAM losing at York and Bradford, games we make the second round draw with George
strongly felt we should have won. But Williams at Wigan and I was really
there’s no point looking back, we are excited, humbled and nervous to be
aiming to carry on the improvement and invited to perform that task. It was a
gel as a side. special evening and I felt really proud to
If you look back four months when Duffs have been invited.
was appointed and got Ando and me back I must pass on congratulations to Luke
involved to where we are now it’s Adamson who has played 300 career
incredible. I’ve played in a lot of teams games, a really proud achievement. Gregg
throughout my career but this one has as McNally passed 150 career tries recently
strong a bond as I’ve experienced. We all and is one away from a century for Leigh
get on and have a common drive and Centurions. And Jonny Pownall reached
purpose. 100 games for Leigh, his hometown club.
Some of the lads who have come out of The good thing about our club is the way
The mark of any good side is how it Super League are amazed by the Duffs and the backroom staff embrace
copes with adversity and I’m pleased standard of one to one coaching they these special moments and make shirt
to report that the reaction to our receive at leigh and the intensity and presentations privately within the confines
disappointing defeat at Bradford professionalism of our training and of the dressing room. They mean so much
spoke volumes for the character and preparation for games. Many have never to players and go some way towards
togetherness of the players. had proper one on one coaching in their explaining why Leigh Centurions is such a
careers until they come to Leigh, many special club with some great people
Sheffield have recruited really well and involved.
Mark Aston has assembled a very good admit they’ve been in a comfort zone and
side. Mark and his assistant Keith Senior playing part time has been the making of The games are coming thick and fast and
were disappointed with last season and them as players and people. today’s game against Barrow Raiders
were determined to put things right. The Challenge Cup holds special gives us an opportunity to strive for two
They’ve started the season flying. They memories for me and I’m looking forward hard-earned points and to keep up our
play well on the 4g pitch at the ground to our fifth round draw against Hull KR. It challenge in a very competitive league.
they call home and are a tough test for will be a good test for our boys to play Barrow beat Leigh early last season at
anyone. against a Super League outfit on a good Carven Park and will be going all out to
pitch in hopefully a fast game. There’s repeat that achievement. We’ll be putting
The pitch is full size and full width so it thoughts of the Hull KR cup-tie firmly to
tests the teams that can’t either defend or always something special about playing in
the cup and each year when it comes one side and looking to reward our fans
attack- or do both. There are no excuses with a good performance to build on last
or hiding places. The surface, while even around you get that tingle of excitement
waiting for the draw. It’s part of the great week.
and fast is unforgiving and you have to Enjoy the game
create your own atmosphere. It is a traditions of our sport. Earlier this year I
was fortunate enough to be invited to Micky
strange, almost sanitised environment,
and the game can easily slip away from
you before you’ve switched on and
realised it’s started.
We had a great following, as we always
do and the travelling Leyther army made
the players feel at home. Stefan Marsh
had to pull out in the warm up but Andy
Thornley switched to centre and did a
great job and we started the game fluently
and on the front foot.
We maintained that momentum
throughout the game and finished with a
convincing result that really lays down a
marker for what we can achieve as a side
this season. We are still smarting after
6 THE CENTURION • THE OFFICIAL MATCHDAY PROGRAMME OF LEIGH CENTURIONS RLFC THE CENTURION • THE OFFICIAL MATCHDAY PROGRAMME OF LEIGH CENTURIONS RLFC 7
WELCOME TO
TODAY’S VISITORS
# LEYTHERS # OURTOWNOURCLUB
# OURTOWNOURCLUB
Photos courtesy SWPix
Jarrad Stack Josh Johnson Lewis Charnock Luke Cresswell Paul Crarey
Barrow Raiders come to Hilton Park this half fightback until Josh Jordan-Roberts Last November Carrey, coach at Barrow since
afternoon in 11th place in the Betfred scored a match-clinching try for the replacing Bobbie Goulding in September
Championship with one win and one visitors eight minutes from the end. 2014 for a second spell in charge, spoke of
draw from their opening eight fixtures. But Injuries have hit Barrow hard and they his pride at penning a new two-year deal.
That win came on the opening day, 22- have been without as many as eleven first Crarey said the prospect of becoming one of
18 at Batley while they drew 20-20 at team squad members in recent weeks. the club’s longest-serving coaches played a
home to Dewsbury. Danny Morrow and Brett Carter suffered part in his decision. He agreed to stay having
Comings and goings at Craven Park were injuries against York too, while Dan Toal is steered the Raiders to Championship safety
comparatively less numerous than other facing a the disciplinary after being sent off in 2018 despite a crippling injury list and off-
Championship clubs over the winter. Headline late in the game. field issues.
signing was Gareth Hock but the former Coach Paul Crarey was pleased with his ...................................................................
Leigh forward has been sidelined by injury so side’s second half display against York. He With those now resolved under new
far which is frustrating for all concerned. told the Barrow Evening Mail: chairman Steve Neale, Crarey was
Jordan Walne and Josh Johnson, who both "At half time, I spoke to the players and said confident that Barrow can kick on in
played with distinction for the Centurions 'if that's what you think of me, I'm wasting 2019. He said: “I had a meeting with
during a difficult final few months of last my time with you' – and the reaction in the Steve and we talked a lot about the
season were key signings from Hull Kingston second half was outstanding," said Crarey. bigger picture.
Rovers.
"But we were in total control of the game, we “It’s never been about the money for me, not
A trio of signings from PNG Hunters made were camped on their goal-line, it was the from day one when I was at the club, and I
the headlines when they joined up with Paul third set and instead of putting a pressure decided after speaking to my family that I
Crarey’s squad- Stragroth Amean, Willie kick in on the floor, we kicked it out on the wanted to carry this journey on.
Minoga and Wartovo Puara while from closer full and they scored off that set, which was a
to home former Workington Town back Tee “I’m pretty honoured as a local lad to have
massive sucker-punch for us. been here for the last four years, and two
Ritson was a key recruit from Newcastle
Thunder. "It was frustrating across the board because years before that.
from being in control in the second half and “This deal would take me to eight. I think
Joe Bullock confirmed a highly deserved fighting our way back in, we've managed to
move to Super League with Wigan Warriors there’s only Frank Foster who has done more
give the game away. It's small margins and than that, and I’d like to beat his record.
where he has thrived this season. One of the we're not getting over the line with them.
Championship’s most talented and consistent “To still be wanted by the club after four
players last season, the ex-Leigh forward’s "A fan walked up to me and said the spirit in years is phenomenal in the modern game,
successful move will hopefully pave the way the second half was outstanding, so some which can be pretty cut-throat.
for others to follow his progression. Ryan will be happy and some won't. “I look at somebody like Alan Kilshaw, who
Fieldhouse and Andy Litherland moved up the "We haven't given up the ghost, but we just did a great job at Rochdale, and I’m sure
coast to Workington Town while Dean Parata need a little bit of luck, stick to processes would do a great job somewhere else. There
was snapped up by Toulouse. and try to grind out the win we desperately are some very good coaches not at clubs at
................................................................... need as a group – but it will be tough in the the moment.
next few weeks." “I’ve got a good board here who buy into
Last Sunday Barrow were knocked out
of the Challenge Cup, beaten 16-32 at Ritson’s return from a long injury lay-off, what we want to do as a club, working in the
home to York City Knights. They trailed marked by an excellent solo try was one community and local schools. Long may that
6-18 at half-time but staged a second bright spot from last Sunday. continue.”
8 THE CENTURION • THE OFFICIAL MATCHDAY PROGRAMME OF LEIGH CENTURIONS RLFC THE CENTURION • THE OFFICIAL MATCHDAY PROGRAMME OF LEIGH CENTURIONS RLFC 9
THE MILESTONE MEN
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Two of John Duffy’s Leigh Centurions squad achieved career milestones in
the Coral Challenge Cup victory at Sheffield Eagles.
Toby Adamson played his 300th career game alongside brother Toby and watched by
mum and dad on Mother’s Day.
The former Leigh East junior began his professional career with Salford and after
making his first team debut in 2006 went to play 145 first-team games over the course
of seven seasons.
From there he moved to Halifax with 47 games from 2013-2014 and he then clocked
up 58 games at Dewsbury before making 16 appearances for Oldham in the second
half of 2017.
In 2018 he played 25 games for Rochdale Hornets and his nine games so far for Leigh
Centurions saw him reach the significant landmark last Sunday.
Jonny Pownall, meanwhile, scored a crucial try on his 100th Leigh appearance as he
closed in on 100 career tries.
After making his Leigh debut in 2011 he scored 60 tries in 92 games for his home
town club before joining Toronto in 2017. He scored 30 tries in 32 games for the
Wolfpack and in 2018 spent time on loan at both Barrow Raiders (5 games) and
Gregg McNally scores try number 99 for
Bradford Bulls (4 games, 3 tries).
Leigh at Sheffield
Returning to LSV this season he has scored five tries in eight games so far.
Pownall has scored 65 tries in 100 Leigh games and 98 in 141 career games so far. Jonny Pownall marks his 100th Leigh
Meanwhile Gregg McNally, who recently scored the 150th try of his career now needs game with a second half try
one try to join the distinguished list of players to score 100 tries for Leigh.
Gregg’s record to date is as follows:
Gregg McNally
Born 2/1/1991 From To A T G DG P
Whitehaven 2008 2010 36 33 83 0 298
Oldham 2010 2010 12 7 46 1 121
Barrow 2011 2011 8 3 5 0 22
Huddersfield 2011 2011 1 0 6 0 12
Leigh 2012 2019 154 99 20 0 436
Bradford 2018 2018 13 5 0 0 20
Ireland 2010 2018 10 4 9 0 30
Total 234 151 169 1 939
Gregg famously scored the last try at Hilton Park. Unfortunately, it was for
Whitehaven.
Only ten players have scored 100 tries for Leigh. The list is as follows:
MOST TRIES (100 AND OVER)
· 189 Mick Martyn · 132 Neil Turley
· 152 John Woods · 128 Joe Walsh
· 149 Bill Kindon · 114 Rod Tickle
· 141 Des Drummond · 112 Gordon Lewis
· 133 Ryan Brierley · 100 David Ingram
Luke Adamson - 300 career games
THE CENTURION • THE OFFICIAL MATCHDAY PROGRAMME OF LEIGH CENTURIONS RLFC 11
MICK MURPHY 1941-2019
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# OURTOWNOURCLUB
winning and visionary educationalist who
was awarded the OBE. Together they later
opened Portland Nursery in Huddersfield, the
first of the chain.
Martin Briggs paid tribute on Facebook: “I
was in the A Team at Barrow when I was
17years old,” he wrote. “Mick was in the first
team, I'd never realised how big he was until
I stood next to him at training. He could pick
up a rugby ball from the pitch with one hand.
People go on about a pass being 'Out of the
back door' as though it's something new.
Mick was doing it in 1970 for fun. A great
bloke, great player a proper personality as
Team photo 1966-67 well.”
Back row (left to right:) Rod Tickle, Colin Tyrer, Paul Grimes, John McVay, The couple returned to the Furness area
Mick Murphy, Bob Welding, Derek Higgs. where he ran a pub and coached Dalton
Front row: Joe Walsh, Mick Collins, Wilf Briggs, Gordon Lewis (captain), ARLFC in the late 1970s. He re-trained as a
Charlie Winslade, Tommy Grainey. maths teacher after taking an Open
University degree and became a brown belt
Mick Murphy, who has died at the age “Mick was rugby mad and he loved playing in Judo. He then played with distinction for St
of 77 enjoyed a rich and varied life Rugby League. He loved the crowds and Helens and Bradford Northern and for Wales
immersed in the game of Rugby League revelled in being in the limelight.” in the 1975 World Cup before he went
so how differently might things have Bob Welding, who made his Leigh debut in travelling, playing for Tonneins and St
turned out for him had he not accepted 1964, played alongside Mick Murphy in the Jacques in France and for Wagga Wagga in
Leigh’s terms to sign professional in the Leigh pack many times. “Mick started off as Australia. In his late 30s, played nine games
summer of 1963? a second row like me before moving up to for Blackpool Borough in their amazing
Mick was playing rugby union in Liverpool at prop,” Bob said. “He was a big man who promotion season to the first division in
Waterloo and had trained as a schoolteacher tackled and ran hard and he was a good 1979-80 and he wound down his career
when Leigh coach Alan Prescott persuaded footballer. He gave 100percent every time he with a short spell at Dewsbury. He later
him and his friend Mick Collins to switch went on the field. became heavily involved at Huddersfield RU
codes. “Like Paul Grimes and Derek Watts who also club and played for their Extra C side until he
It was one of the best strokes of business came from rugby union to play at Leigh in was 60 and was also persuaded to become
Leigh ever did. But whereas Collins played the 1960s he adapted very quickly to Rugby their chairman.
out all his career at Leigh, Murphy developed League. He wore a head band, just as I did. It Mick Murphy developed a career in acting
a wanderlust that took him far and wide. was Gerry Helme who advised that as I was and had several walk-on parts in television
Mick Collins remembers the lead-up to them often getting the skin above my eyes split while also becoming involved in the oil
both signing for Leigh. “The first time I met open during games and it gave more industry. But Mick Murphy’s involvement in
Mick Murphy was at the age of five at St protection. rugby league was far from over and in the
Monicas Infants School in Bootle. From there “Mick was a good mate of Mick Collins and late 1980s he was an instrumental figure in
we went to St Mary’s and played in the same they both went on to have great careers. He rescuing the famous Huddersfield club when
school rugby team together,” he said. was a very clever lad and got involved in a lot they were at their lowest ebb, heading for
“We played in the same college team of different businesses away from rugby and liquidation. Murphy headed up a three-man
together at Hopwood Hall and also for St he was a great character. consortium that will never be forgotten by
Mary’s Old Boys. One day we were asked to “I remember he came from a large family Fartown supporters.
play for Waterloo as they were short of a and sometimes all his brothers and sisters Neil Shuttleworth, one of Murphy's
back and a forward. We played the last half would come from Liverpool to watch him play consortium who took over the club in 1988,
dozen games of the 1962-63 season and did for Leigh. We used to have a nice drink said "He was the man, the catalyst for the
OK. afterwards.” change in fortunes of the club. Who knows
“Ken Fletcher, who was a director at Leigh at After 166 games for Leigh (7 tries) and where we would be without Mick Murphy?
the time, had a son who played at Waterloo building a reputation as a big, tough, ball "He helped sell the idea of the club to the
and he was instrumental in us both signing handling prop forward with the pace to play Council, businesses to the town and the
professional. Coming from Liverpool we’d in the back row Murphy was transferred to Rugby Football League and his inspirational
never really heard of Rugby League and I Barrow in January 1969 for a £3,000 fee thoughts allowed the club to revive its
was hesitant to sign at first as I wasn’t sure and went on to become a firm favourite of fortunes."
I’d adapt to the game. But Mick was the the Craven Park devotees. Mick leaves four children and four
opposite. His greatest strength was his During his time at Barrow he met his wife grandchildren and everyone at Leigh
amazing self-confidence and he was very Rosemary, who sadly predeceased him in Centurions passes on their deepest
positive in everything he did. June 2018. She became a noted, award- sympathy at this sad time.
THE CENTURION • THE OFFICIAL MATCHDAY PROGRAMME OF LEIGH CENTURIONS RLFC 13
LEAGUE TABLE AND TOP SCORERS
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Betfred Championship Table
Leading Scorers
As at Sunday 31 March 2019
Top tries
P W D L F A Diff PTS Ryan Ince (Widnes Vikings) 12
Toronto Wolfpack 8 7 0 1 236 107 129 14 Matty Russell (Toronto Wolfpack) 9
Toulouse Olympique 8 6 0 2 256 124 132 12 Stan Robin (Toulouse Olympique) 9
Ryan Millar (Sheffield Eagles) 7
Sheffield Eagles 7 6 0 1 210 119 91 12
Anthony Thackeray (Sheffield Eagles) 7
York City Knights 7 5 0 2 169 98 71 10
Top goals
Leigh Centurions 8 4 0 4 183 136 47 8 Mark Kheirallah (Toulouse Olympique) 35
Featherstone Rovers 8 4 0 4 224 178 46 8 Connor Robinson (York City Knights) 32
Bradford Bulls 8 4 0 4 134 133 1 8 Jack Owens (Widnes Vikings) 30
Pat Walker (Sheffield Eagles) 29
Halifax 8 4 0 4 157 232 -75 8 Paul Sykes (Dewsbury Rams) 27
Dewsbury Rams 7 2 1 4 142 156 -14 5 Gareth O'Brien (Toronto Wolfpack) 27
Barrow Raiders 8 1 1 6 102 241 -139 3 Top points
Swinton Lions 8 1 0 7 143 257 -114 2 Mark Kheirallah (Toulouse Olympique) 86
Connor Robinson (York City Knights) 73
Batley Bulldogs 8 1 0 7 114 228 -114 2
Jack Owens (Widnes Vikings) 72
Rochdale Hornets 6 1 0 5 60 222 -162 2 Paul Sykes (Dewsbury Rams) 68
Widnes Vikings * 7 6 0 1 221 120 101 0 Steve Tyrer (Halifax) 68
*12pts deducted for entering administration
16 THE CENTURION • THE OFFICIAL MATCHDAY PROGRAMME OF LEIGH CENTURIONS RLFC THE CENTURION • THE OFFICIAL MATCHDAY PROGRAMME OF LEIGH CENTURIONS RLFC 17
BEHIND THE SCENES
# LEYTHERS # OURTOWNOURCLUB
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v ROCHDALE HORNETS
Danny Richardson interviewed by Graham Lovett John Duffy interviewed by Graham Lovett
Jason Poole from Main Match Sponsor Estate Agency Signs Mascot Matthew Hall with MOM Danny Richardson
Chris Plimley from Matchball Sponsor Zaun Group Programme Sponsor LGH Plumbing
THE CENTURION • THE OFFICIAL MATCHDAY PROGRAMME OF LEIGH CENTURIONS RLFC 19FROM THE ARCHIVES
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John Taylor kindly provided an historical Leigh team photo which will bring back happy
memories for our older supporters.
Dated 30 Dec 1967, the team includes Mick Murphy, whose obituary is elsewhere in the programme.
Liam Hood salutes the North Stand
THE CENTURION • THE OFFICIAL MATCHDAY PROGRAMME OF LEIGH CENTURIONS RLFC 21Danny Richardson hoists a high kick Iain Thornley scores his first Leigh try
Joe Cator breaks away Jonny Pownall goes over in the corner
Liam Hood try Tom Spencer halted in full flight
LEIGH CENTURIONS v ROCHDALE HORNETS
Sunday March 30th 2019 Photos: Onion Bag Photography 23THE CENTURION • THE OFFICIAL MATCHDAY PROGRAMME OF LEIGH CENTURIONS RLFC 25
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Onion Bag Photography
Sam Brooks scores a try at Sheffield
BIG PICTURE
THE
THE CENTURION • THE OFFICIAL MATCHDAY PROGRAMME OF LEIGH CENTURIONS RLFC 27Danny Richardson lines up a kick James Bentley crosses for his second try
Gregg 2nd try
Joe Cator and Luke Douglas combine in defence
Danny Richardson offloads to James Bentley
PHOTOS
LEIGH CENTURIONS
v ROCHDALE HORNETS
Sunday March 17th 2019
Photos courtesy of Onion Bag Photography
THE CENTURION • THE OFFICIAL MATCHDAY PROGRAMME OF LEIGH CENTURIONS RLFC 29Toby Adamson scores Leigh’s second try
Martyn Ridyard offloads
PHOTOS
30 THE CENTURION • THE OFFICIAL MATCHDAY PROGRAMME OF LEIGH CENTURIONS RLFCSOCCER AT CRAVEN PARK
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Some rare photos of
association football being
played at Barrow RLFC’s
Craven Park ground.
On 17 Dec 2005 Holker Old
Boys played FC United of
Manchester in a North West
Counties D2 fixture.
The visitors won 2-0 in front of
2,303 spectators.
Mitch Cox scores a first half try at Sheffield
32 THE CENTURION • THE OFFICIAL MATCHDAY PROGRAMME OF LEIGH CENTURIONS RLFC THE CENTURION • THE OFFICIAL MATCHDAY PROGRAMME OF LEIGH CENTURIONS RLFC 33LEIGH COMMUNITY TRUST
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LSV BECOMES
AUTISM FRIENDLY
This weekend’s match our matchday’s more Autistic friendly by; all our
sees the Leigh Stewards are ‘Autism Friends’ trained, making them
Centurions and Leigh more aware of the condition.
Sports Village Stadium Supporters living with Autism can access the stadium
backing the Council’s via a side entrance gate if going through the turnstiles
goal to make Wigan are too difficult. We have introduced a virtual video
Borough a more autism that allows people to get a feel for the stadium in
friendly place and advance of visiting it on a matchday and this can be
ensure that rugby league found on the Leigh Community Trust, Leigh Centurions
is open to all our fans including people with and LSV stadium website.
autism, their family and friends.
LCT have also purchased both children and adult ear
Over the last couple of months we have worked with a defenders that are available for loan from the
number of autistic supporters who have attended designated autism steward and finally we have
matches and have provided us with their view on how Introduced more specific information on all our website
we can be more accessible and as a result have made to help supporters to plan ahead.
THE CENTURION • THE OFFICIAL MATCHDAY PROGRAMME OF LEIGH CENTURIONS RLFC 35LEIGH COMMUNITY TRUST LEIGH COMMUNITY TRUST
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MOVIN’ AND GROOVIN’ MEET THE TEAM - TJ
WITH THE A TEAM
LCT’s A team programme has gone
The Trust would like to announce and welcome
our newest member of the team. TJ!!!!
TJ joined us as a work placement student back in June
really didn’t take much thinking for me to decide
whether or not to except the role.”
“The main part of my Job is working within the A Team
from strength to strength over the 2018 where he proved his worth working with Tom programme which runs on a Saturday afternoons and
last year, with over 40 children delivering Sky try over in Bolton. TJ’s attitude and Thursday evenings. I still cannot believe this is my job
aged between 3-9 years old taking infectious personality won everyone in the office over. because of the enjoyment I get working with the
part in our weekend free play and Fast forward 5 months and the trust received funding children and people within the programme. Each
structured sports sessions and the from Children In Need to run our A team programme Saturday and Thursday I spend 6 hours with amazing
new roll out of multi sport and and we were looking to recruit an apprentice……. children and parents who never fail to make me smile
sensory movement sessions for After a very heated and a serious staff meeting (that with their loving and caring personalities. When not
10-16 year olds on a Thursday took all of 5 minutes) we were unanimous that we delivering I spend my time in the office studying for my
evening. would offer TJ the role. TJ has now been in post since level 3 in sports and physical education as well as
November 2018. going in and out of schools continuing Sky Try with
Autism has become the hot topic in
Tom.”
recent years, with more and more “When hearing from Hannah about getting a full time
children being diagnosed. Therefore, it apprentice role at the Trust I was over the moon. From For more information about our Autism
becomes a worry that studies show, spending just one week working with Tom and meeting programmes contact Carlie on 01942 487 847 or
children living with Autism are less likely all the great people who make the Trust what it is, it email carlie@leighcommunitytrust.co.uk.
to be active than their non-autistic peers.
The A team programme is funded by
Children in Need and aims to encourage
children living with autism, whether
diagnosed or awaiting a diagnosis to
engage in physical activity, play and
increase social and communication skills
whilst giving parents the opportunity of a
break and a chance to talk to other
parents.
Sessions consist of multi-sports activities
so that the children get to experience
different sports and activities they may
never have joined in with before. The
sessions will help autistic children to
build motor skills and work on
development in a relaxed but enjoyable
setting.
If you are interested in these
sessions please contact
Carlie Unsworth, Lead SEN Officer at
Leigh Community Trust on either
01942487847 or
carlie@leighcommunitytrust.co.uk
(or follow our A team facebook page
The A team).
36 THE CENTURION • THE OFFICIAL MATCHDAY PROGRAMME OF LEIGH CENTURIONS RLFC THE CENTURION • THE OFFICIAL MATCHDAY PROGRAMME OF LEIGH CENTURIONS RLFC 37COMMERCIAL SPONSORS
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MATCHBALL SPONSOR
MAIN MATCH SPONSOR
PROGRAMME SPONSOR
38 THE CENTURION • THE OFFICIAL MATCHDAY PROGRAMME OF LEIGH CENTURIONS RLFC THE CENTURION • THE OFFICIAL MATCHDAY PROGRAMME OF LEIGH CENTURIONS RLFC 39LEIGH SQUAD AND SPONSORS 2019
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Date of Birth: 17 August 1987 Date of Birth: 28 May 1990 Date of Birth: 4 Apr 1997 Date of Birth: 18 Sep 1980
Position: Forward Position: Forward Position: Centre Position: Hooker
Signed from: Rochdale Hornets Signed from: Rochdale Hornets Signed from: Wigan Warriors Signed from: Warrington Wolves
Other former club(s): Other former club(s): Other former club(s): Other former club(s):
Leigh East, Salford, Halifax, Dewsbury Leigh East, Salford, North Wales, Rochdale Mayfield, Swinton Lions Leigh Miners, Leigh Centurions,
Rams, Oldham, Bath RU Dewsbury Rams (loan), Workington Town (loan) St Helens, Wigan Warriors
Leigh Centurions Leigh Centurions Leigh Centurions Leigh Centurions
Heritage Number: 1476 Heritage Number: 1475 Heritage Number: 1483 Heritage Number: 1153
Year of senior debut: 2006 Year of senior debut: 2010 Year of senior debut: 2016 Year of senior debut: 1999
Career record to start of 2019: Career record to start of 2019: Career record to start of 2019: Career record to start of 2019:
291 games, 43 tries, 1 goal, 174pts 132 games, 19 tries, 76pts 10 games, 4 tries, 16pts 528 games, 130 tries, 520pts
Leigh Centurions playing career: Leigh Centurions playing career: Leigh Centurions playing career: Leigh Centurions playing career:
N/A N/A N/A 125 games, 39 tries, 156pts
Representative honours: Representative honours: Representative honours: Representative honours:
Miscellaneous: Miscellaneous: Ireland 3 games, 2 tries, 8pts Great Britain 4 games; England 4 games, 1
Luke played his early rugby in the Younger brother of Luke who he played Miscellaneous: try, 4pts; England U21s 2 games, 1 try,
Luke Adamson TOBY Adamson JACK HIGGINson MICKY HIGHAM
shadow of Hilton Park at Leigh East alongside at Dewsbury and Rochdale, a Jack scored two tries on his 4pts; Super League U21s 1 game
Sponsored by: former Leigh East junior international debut against Scotland in Miscellaneous:
Tommy Sale MBE Youth Development Sponsored by: 2018 Micky made his Leigh debut on 14 Feb
Squad Number: 13 Squad Number: 11 Squad Number: 4 Squad Number: 9
Programme Pam Ties Sponsored by: 1999, before some of the current squad
Impact Insurance were born
Sponsored by: JRs Taxis
Date of Birth: 29 September 1993 Date of Birth: 15 June 1998 Date of Birth: 15 Apr 2000 Date of Birth: 2 Jan 1991
Position: Forward Position: Forward Position: Winger/ fullback Position: Fullback
Signed from: Featherstone Rovers Signed from: Hull Kingston Rovers Signed from: Leigh East Signed from: Bradford Bulls
Other former club(s): Other former club(s): Other former club(s): Other former club(s):
Wigan St Patrick’s, Wigan Academy, Skirlaugh, City of Hull Academy, Crosfields Whitehaven, Huddersfield Giants,
Halifax, Rochdale Hornets, Whitehaven, Coventry (loan), Newcastle (loan) Leigh Centurions Leigh Centurions, Oldham (loan), Barrow
Widnes, Bradford Leigh Centurions Heritage Number: N/A Raiders (loan)
Leigh Centurions Heritage Number: Year of senior debut: N/A Leigh Centurions Heritage Number:
Heritage Number: 1474 1478 Career record to start of 2019: 1350
Year of senior debut: 2014 Year of senior debut: 2016 N/A Year of senior debut: 2008
Career record to start of 2019: Career record to start of 2019: Leigh Centurions playing career: Career record to start of 2019:
94 games, 6 tries, 24pts 24 games, 2 tries, 8pts N/A 227 games, 146 tries, 169 goals,
Leigh Centurions playing career: Leigh Centurions playing career: Representative honours: 1 dropgoal, 923pts
N/A N/A England Lions U19s, Leigh Centurions playing career:
Representative honours: Representative honours: Lancashire U19s 147 games, 94 tries, 20 goals, 416pts
Scotland 4 games Miscellaneous: Miscellaneous: Representative honours:
SAM BROOKS JOE CATOR BRAD HOLROYD GREGG McNALLY
Miscellaneous: Joe's late father Mike played for Hull KR Brad could become the first Leigh Ireland 10 games, 4 tries, 9 goals, 34pts;
His last game for Featherstone was and his two older brothers play for West player born in the year 2000 to make England Academy
against Leigh in the 2018 Hull his first-team debut Miscellaneous:
Squad Number: 10 Squad Number: 15 Squad Number: 21 Squad Number: 1
Championship Shield Final Sponsored by: Sponsored by: Gregg scored the last try at Hilton Park in
Sponsored by: Blades Restaurants Ltd Impact Insurance 2008. Unfortunately it was for Whitehaven.
Pro Build Plumbing & Heating Sponsored by Cloud4 Computers
Date of Birth: 15 Nov 1993 Date of Birth: 17 Dec 1995 Date of Birth: 3 Sep 1990 Date of Birth: 7 Sep 1998
Position: Centre Position: Forward Position: Winger Position: Hooker
Signed from: Signed from: Wigan Warriors Signed from: Widnes Vikings Signed from: Wigan Warriors
Thatto Heath Crusaders Other former club(s): Other former club(s): Other former club(s):
Other former club(s): Wigan St Patrick’s, Swinton Lions (loan), Wigan St Patrick’s, Wigan Warriors, Wigan St Patrick’s
Leigh Miners, Thirroul Butchers (Aus) Workington Town (loan), Oldham (loan) Whitehaven (loan) Leigh Centurions
Leigh Centurions Leigh Centurions Leigh Centurions Heritage Number: 1482
Heritage Number: 1459 Heritage Number: 1451 Heritage Number: 1471 Year of senior debut: 2018
Year of senior debut: 2018 Year of senior debut: 2016 Year of senior debut: 2010 Career record to start of 2019:
Career record to start of 2019: Career record to start of 2019: Career record to start of 2019: 3 games, 1 try, 4pts
6 games, 1 try, 4pts 37 games, 6 tries, 3 goals, 30pts 156 games, 71 tries, 21 goals, Leigh Centurions playing career
Leigh Centurions playing career Leigh Centurions playing career: 326pts to start of 2019:
to start of 2019: 14 games, 2 tries, 3 goals, 14pts Leigh Centurions playing career N/A
6 games, 1 try, 4pts Representative honours: to start of 2019: Representative honours:
Representative honours: England U16s, England Academy U19s N/A Ireland 3 games, 1 try, 4pts
Miscellaneous: Miscellaneous: Representative honours: Miscellaneous:
MITCH COX NICK GREGson STEFAN MARSH DEC O’DONNELL
Mitch made a try-scoring debut for the Nick showed his versatility by playing a Miscellaneous: Dec made his senior debut for Ireland in
Centurions against Sheffield in 2018 goal-kicking halfback role late in the Stefan has the impressive strike-rate of the 2018 European Championship
Sponsored by: 2018 season 59 tries in 133 Super League games Sponsored by:
Squad Number: 19 Squad Number: 17 Squad Number: 5 Squad Number: 18
Struktura Engineering Services Sponsored by: Sponsored by: Struktura Engineering Services
Leigh Centurions RL Fans Forum Player Cre8 Your Marketing Good Guys
Sponsorship Group
40 THE CENTURION • THE OFFICIAL MATCHDAY PROGRAMME OF LEIGH CENTURIONS RLFC THE CENTURION • THE OFFICIAL MATCHDAY PROGRAMME OF LEIGH CENTURIONS RLFC 41LEIGH SQUAD AND SPONSORS 2019
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Date of Birth: 22 Aug 1991 Date of Birth: 25 Jul 1986 Date of Birth: 11 Sep 1991 Date of Birth: 13 Dec 1997
Position: Winger Position: Standoff Position: Centre Position: Halfback
Signed from: Toronto Wolfpack Signed from: Featherstone Rovers Signed from: Catalans Dragons Signed from: Wigan Warriors
Other former club(s): Other former club(s): Other former club(s): (season long loan)
Leigh Miners, Leigh Centurions, Barrow Leigh Miners, Leigh Centurions, Huddersfield Ashton Bears, Wigan St Patrick’s, Wigan Other former club(s):
Raiders (loan), Bradford Bulls (loan) Giants (loan) Warriors, Salford, Hull KR, Sale RU, South Leigh East, Swinton Lions (loan)
Leigh Centurions Leigh Centurions Heritage Number: 1314 Wales (loan), Leigh Centurions (loan), Leigh Centurions
Heritage Number: 1346 Year of senior debut: 2009 Workington Town (loan) Heritage Number: 1472
Year of senior debut: 2011 Career record to start of 2019: Leigh Centurions Heritage Number: Year of senior debut: 2017
Career record to start of 2019: 249 games, 86 tries, 825 goals, 1384 Career record to start of 2019:
125 games, 89 tries, 356pts 9 dropgoals, 2003pts Year of senior debut: 2012 32 games, 4 tries, 7 goals,
Leigh Centurions playing career: Leigh Centurions playing career: Career record to start of 2019: 6 dropgoals, 36pts
92 games, 60 tries, 240pts 222 games, 77 tries, 740 goals, 125 games, 55 tries, 220pts Leigh Centurions playing career:
Representative honours: 9 dropgoals, 1797pts Leigh Centurions playing career N/A
N/A Representative honours: to start of 2019: 1 game Representative honours:
Miscellaneous: Great Britain Community Lions Representative honours: N/A
JONNY POWNALL MARTYN RIDYARD IAIN THORNLEY JOSH WOODS
Jonny scored 25 tries in 24 games Miscellaneous: Miscellaneous: Miscellaneous:
during Toronto’s first season in 2017 Martyn made his Leigh debut in the first Iain made his Leigh debut against Halifax in Josh is a Leigh Centurions season
Sponsored by: competitive game at LSV against London 2013 on dual registration terms from Wigan. ticket holder
Squad Number: 2 Squad Number: 6 Squad Number: 3 Squad Number: 7
Skolars and is now the Club’s third-highest During that year he won a league and cup
NEXT HOME GAME
Wolf Rock @ The Britannia Sponsored by:
point-scorer double with the Warriors. Caton Lloyd Audio Visual Solutions
Sponsored by: RM Courier Services Ltd Sponsored by: AB Sundecks
Date of Birth: 4th October 1988
LEIGH CENTURIONS
Date of Birth: 6 Jan 1992 Date of Birth: 27 Nov 1999 Position: Prop Forward
Position: Hooker Position: Forward Signed from: Toronto Wolfpack
Other former club(s):
v DEWSBURY
Signed from: Widnes Vikings Signed from: St Helens Academy St Helens, Castleford Tigers, Salford,
Other former club(s): Other former club(s): Leigh Centurions, Corrimall (Aus),
Leeds Rhinos, Dewsbury Rhinos (DR), Leigh Miners Swinton Lions
Hunslet Hawks, Salford, Swinton, Leigh Centurions Heritage Number: Leigh Centurions Heritage Number: 1332
Leigh Centurions N/A Year of senior debut: 2008
Leigh Centurions Year of senior debut: N/A Career record to start of 2019:
Heritage Number: 1410 Career record to start of 2019: 243 games, 20 tries, 82pts
Year of senior debut: 2012 N/A Leigh Centurions playing career Easter Monday 22nd April 2019 • KICK OFF 3pm
Career record to start of 2019: Leigh Centurions playing career: to start of 2019:
89 games, 15 tries, 1 goal 62pts
151 games, 51 tries, 204pts N/A Representative honours:
Leigh Centurions playing career: Representative honours: Wales – 7 games, 1 try, 4pts
65 games, 26 tries, 104pts N/A Miscellaneous:
Representative honours: Miscellaneous: Jake followed in the footsteps of his grandfather
JAKE EMMITT
Scotland Ben was born nine months after Leigh’s Lionel Emmitt in playing
LIAM HOOD BEN SIMS
Miscellaneous: 2019 captain Micky Higham made his for Leigh and Wales. He is now in his third spell at
Liam starred in Hunslet’s Championship club debut the club following a dual
Squad Number: 29
One grand final victory over Oldham in Sponsored by Impact Insurance registration spell in 2010 from St Helens and a
Squad Number: 20
permanent deal from 2014-16
2014 Sponsored by: Leigh Centurions RL Fans Forum
Squad Number: 27 Sponsored by: Player Sponsorship Group
Caton Lloyd Audio Visual Systems
COACHING STAFF COACHING STAFF COACHING STAFF COACHING STAFF
JOHN DUFFY PAUL ANDERSON JAY DUFFY JOE McLOUGHLIN
Date of Birth: 2 Jan 1991 Date of Birth: 1 Mar 1989
Position: Forward Position: Forward
Signed from: London Broncos Signed from: Swinton Lions
Other former club(s): Other former club(s):
Wigan St Patrick’s, Wigan Warriors, Ashton Bears, Wigan St Patrick’s, Wigan HEAD COACH ASSISTANT COACH ASSISTANT COACH PHYSIOTHERAPIST
South Wales (loan), Leigh Centurions Warriors, Salford (loan), Whitehaven,
Leigh Centurions North Wales (loan)
Heritage Number: 1357 Leigh Centurions
Year of senior debut: 2012 Heritage Number: 1344
Career record to start of 2019: Year of senior debut: 2009
145 games, 18 tries, 72pts Career record to start of 2019:
Leigh Centurions playing career 197 games, 30 tries, 120pts
to start of 2019: Leigh Centurions playing career
99 games, 14 tries, 56pts to start of 2019:
Representative honours: 73 games, 11 tries, 44pts
Miscellaneous: Representative honours: N/A
TOM SPENCER ANDY THORNLEY
Tom’s last game for London Broncos Miscellaneous:
was in their MPG victory in Toronto that After graduating through the Wigan
earned them a place in Super League system Andy made his senior debut on
Squad Number: 8 Squad Number: 12
Sponsored by: loan for Salford in 2009 Sponsored by: Sponsored by: Sponsored by: Sponsored by:
ASK Platt Office Supplies Sponsored by: Pennine Utilities Palatine Paints Hilltop Products Leigh Centurions RL Fans Forum J&K Injury Rehabilitation
Player Sponsorship Group
42 THE CENTURION • THE OFFICIAL MATCHDAY PROGRAMME OF LEIGH CENTURIONS RLFC THE CENTURION • THE OFFICIAL MATCHDAY PROGRAMME OF LEIGH CENTURIONS RLFC 43LISA LEIGH SQUAD AND SPONSORS 2019
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# OURTOWNOURCLUB
DUAL REGISTRATION AND LOAN PLAYERS
THE LEIGH
INDEPENDENT
SUPPORTERS
ASSOCIATION
Date of Birth: 3 July 1995 Date of Birth:
What a fantastic rugby league for links to join online or see a LISA After a great win at an in form Sheffield Position: Forward 19 Oct 1996
town we have in Leigh. After all the Committee member when buying your last week we’re back in Challenge Cup Former club(s): Position:
Oldham St Annes, Back row/ centre
turmoil before the start of the coach tickets in the Legends Bar after a action again next week with a trip to Littleborough, Former club(s):
season to now, eight league games game. As well as contributing to our Hull KR, hopefully to re-live that Warrington Wolves scholarship, Oulton Raiders, Bradford Bulls,
in, having played some of the fantastic team you’ll get discounts on fantastic Qualifiers Super 8s victory at Rochdale Hornets (DR), Sheffield Eagles (DR)
Sheffield Eagles (DR) Leigh Centurions
biggest teams in our league to be LISA Coaches to away games and Craven Park the year we were Leigh Centurions Heritage Number:
up in fifth place, in the play off discounted entry to all LISA Events. As promoted. Heritage Number: 1479 1481
places, is an amazing achievement. a member you can also vote for your After that it’s Good Friday Derby Day Year of senior debut: Year of senior debut:
2015 2016
What’s just as impressive is that the LISA Man of the Match every game, the away at Widnes. Our lads will need your Career record to start of 2019: Career record to start of 2019:
people of Leigh have stuck behind our winner most times will be presented vocal support for both these massive 41 games, 9 tries, 36pts 50 games, 22 tries, 88pts
team. Attendances both at the Leigh with the LISA Player of the Season games so get your LISA Coach tickets Representative honours: Representative honours:
JACK ASHWORTH JAMES BENTLEY
award by one lucky LISA Member who’s none Ireland
Sports Village and following our lads, to from the Legends Bar after the game Miscellaneous: Miscellaneous:
give them the support they value so voted throughout the season. today or from The Market Stall during Jack won the Man of the Match Award James was Championship Young
much at away games has surpassed So join up and join in! the week. on his Leigh debut v Toulouse Player of the Year in 2017
Sponsored by: Sponsored by:
what anyone could have expected. (St Helens, DR) Leisure Resorts (St Helens, DR) Leisure Resorts
It’s great that so many Leythers are
supporting our town’s team. Even better
that so many of you are LISA Members Date of Birth: 9 Apr 1998 Date of Birth: 12 May 1986
and helping to contribute to the Position: Centre/ wing Position: Prop forward
Former club(s): Former club(s):
success we’re having on the pitch. It is Orrell St James, Cronulla Sharks,
because of this continued and Sheffield Eagles (DR) Gold Coast Titans
increased support LISA are thrilled to Leigh Centurions Leigh Centurions
Heritage Number: 1470 Heritage Number: 1473
be able to make a donation of £7,500 Year of senior debut: Year of senior debut:
to the club! Thank you so much to all 2018 2006
out brilliant LISA members, it is Career record to start of 2019: Career record to start of 2019:
because of your support we can 24 games, 336 games, 23 tries, 92pts
9 tries, 36pts Representative honours:
contribute to helping fund our team. Representative honours: Scotland,
This donation is additional to the two England U18s Prime Minister’s XIII,
thousand pounds LISA donate every Miscellaneous: NSW Country
MATTY COSTELLO LUKE DOUGLAS
Matty won the 2018 Championship Miscellaneous:
month! Young Player of the Year award after Luke played in a record 215
What we need though is even more impressive displays for Sheffield Eagles consecutive NRL games between 2006
on dual registration and 2014
members! The more members we Sponsored by: Sponsored by:
have, the more money we can donate. (St Helens, DR) Leisure Resorts (St Helens, loan) PPS Design & Build
We can increase our monthly
contributions to our club, allowing them
to budget for additional players to Date of Birth: 2 Sep 1996 Date of Birth: 12 Oct 1996
strengthen our squad. Position: Halfback Position: Hooker
Former club(s): Former club(s):
As the season gets going now, Halton Hornets, Blackbrook, York (DR), Featherstone
especially if we get a cup run in either Sheffield Eagles (DR) Rovers (DR), Hull KR (loan)
the Challenge Cup or the 1895 cup Leigh Centurions Leigh Centurions
Heritage Number: 1480 Heritage Number: 1477
we’ll need as many quality players as Year of senior debut: Year of senior debut:
we can afford. We’ve already added 2017 2018
Liam Hood and Jake Emmitt to our Career record to start of 2019: Career record to start of 2019:
48 games, 10 games,
squad, but we’ll need even more 9 tries, 5 tries, 20pts
players to keep up with the teams with 154 goals, Representative honours:
bigger squads and more money. This 9 dropgoals, England u18s
353pts Miscellaneous:
requires your support.
AARON SMITH
Representative honours: Aaron made his Super League debut on
DANIEL RICHARDSON
For the last twenty years LISA has been none loan at Hull KR in 2018 and his Saints
Miscellaneous: Super League debut later that year in
helping to fund our team and has Daniel was selected for the Super the Super 8s.
donated hundreds of thousands of League Dream Team in 2018 Sponsored by:
pounds. Please sign up, see our Twitter (St Helens, DR) Sponsored by: (St Helens, DR) Leisure Resorts
Leisure Resorts
page at @Leigh_ISA or Facebook page
44 THE CENTURION • THE OFFICIAL MATCHDAY PROGRAMME OF LEIGH CENTURIONS RLFC THE CENTURION • THE OFFICIAL MATCHDAY PROGRAMME OF LEIGH CENTURIONS RLFC 45You can also read
