LEIGH Centurions geared up for tomorrow night's crunch Challenge Cup clash at home to London Broncos with what Paul Rowley described as a "landmark victory" against Featherstone Rovers.

The head coach was celebrating his 40th birthday and the significance of the thumping 40-6 win against their opponents in last season's Grand Final did not go unnoticed.

"It was a magic number 40, with it being my 40th birthday and then us scoring 40 points," he said, reserving special praise for staff behind the scene who put together a special programme in his honour.

"Everybody had written in it – people who I care about and who are important to me. It was very special and means a lot to me."

The club's 15th straight victory, stretching back to a defeat against Doncaster Rovers last July, also pleased the Centurions boss.

It featured a number of stand-out performances, including a great try by Tommy Goulden in a barnstorming second-half blitz after a tight opening period.

But Rowley picked out the display of reserve player Michael Platt at centre, who looks destined to keep his place for the Challenge Cup tie.

"I didn't see any poor performers in there. Michael Platt has been chomping at the bit and Johnny Pownall has taken his opportunity wonderfully well," he said.

"It's either poor form or bad luck that opens up an opportunity for somebody else."

Leigh will be looking to add to their run with another victory over a Broncos side who they beat 25-12 earlier this month.

The capital-based side have lost a number of high-profile players since then, but Rowley will not be taking them lightly.

"Adversity usually galvanises people together and you see some inner strength," he said.

"They have people like Naqama who are NRL world class players looking to make a difference.

"These guys are winners and they are dangerous animals. We are aware of that. They gave us a real tough game the other week and showed what they are capable of in spells. So we will be prepared."

The Centurions have also passed on their hopes and best wishes to amateur neighbours Leigh Miners Rangers ahead of their fourth-round cup tie against Oxford, which will be played at Leigh Sports Village on Saturday.

"Everyone here at the club is rooting for them and we wish them all the best," said Rowley.

The Twist Lane club were forced to switch their tie after the RFL decided that their home ground did not meet minimum criteria despite a strong case presented by the amateur club.

Miners will now be hit with a £3,000 bill to stage the tie at the sports village, but local people and businesses have rallied round, with the club receiving donations and the creation of a "Hundred Club" to help meet costs.

Leigh directors Mike Latham and Derek Beaumont have been amongst many to contribute.

Details of how to donate can be found online at leighminersrangers.net/openage/help-leigh-miners-fund-challenge-cup-fixture-the-100-club/

In other news, the club was rocked this week by the sudden death of former player Milton Huddart.

The back row forward played 25 games for the club, scoring a try and a drop goal after joining from Carlisle.

His only season with Leigh in 1986-87 saw the club stave off relegation and reach a Challenge Cup semi-final.