Burnage 45 Leigh RUFC 10

RELEGATION looms for Leigh after their latest defeat came on Burnage's artificial pitch.

Going into the game with changes to the back division, including Osian Griffiths coming in to play scrum half, Leigh had the better of the early exchanges but Burnage scored first when their number eight crashed through a couple of tacklers for a converted try after seven minutes.

Leigh came back strongly and threw the ball about brilliantly, causing Burnage to scramble in defence to keep them out.

Burnage managed to break away twice more before the break to register converted tries, which took the teams off at half time with Burnage leading 21-0.

Leigh came out firing on all cylinders after half time and a fantastic break by Alex Leadbetter put the supporting Jimmy Wilkinson over for an excellent try, which was converted by Rob Drake.

A well-struck Drake penalty from 45 metres added another three points to the Leigh tally in the 46th minute.

Burnage, however, extended their lead through a penalty in the 65th minute and then added two breakaway converted tries.

The hosts got over the Leigh line again in the last minute.

Leigh gave it their all and pushed Burnage hard throughout the 80 minutes.

The Burnage officials awarded man of the match to Drake, but Alex Leadbetter and Jack Burdon also caught the eye for non-stop efforts.

Leigh entertain third-placed Northwich at Hand Lane on Saturday, kick off 3pm.