Leigh RUFC 19 Widnes RUFC 20

LEIGH continued their string of narrow home defeats against title challengers Widnes.

With both sides forced to make changes, Leigh welcomed the returning Michael Eccles and Jason Carson, alongside colts back Deacon Monks.

Leigh started much the stronger, and dominated early field position.

They were rewarded with a try from Peter Ince, and a penalty from Ellis Grimes.

Widnes, however, are determined opposition and hit back with a penalty and a try from their pacy full back Leadbetter to take a narrow lead to the break.

The visitors scored quickly after the break, as the Leigh defence failed to respond after a broken play.

Leigh hit back with a Grimes penalty, before the Widnes full back completed his hat-trick to leave Leigh struggling.

Leigh are nothing if not resilient, and staged a good fight-back.

Grimes kicked a third penalty to reduce the arrears to six points.

The Leigh forwards then mounted a superb catch and drive, to see skipper Calvin Crompton awarded the score.

Both sides held their breath as Grimes pushed the conversion wide, and once again Leigh were left to regret missed opportunities.

Leigh continue to remain competitive despite their lowly position, and will hope to take something from their travels to Wilmslow on Saturday.