LEIGH Centurions’ Super League ambitions suffered another set-back as Rangi Chase inspired the top flight outfit to victory at the AJ Bell Stadium.

Former Man of Steel Chase was unplayable at times for Paul Rowley’s Championship side, scoring two second half tries while at the heart of of the home team’s best moments.

Leigh’’s defeat was their heaviest since a 60-10 Challenge Cup exit to Wigan in April 2013. They have now lost both opening Middle 8’s fixtures and face Super League opposition again in the form of improving Wakefield Trinity Wildcats at the Leigh Sports Village on Saturday.

For Salford, revenge was particularly sweet after defeat by their neighbours in this season’s Challenge Cup. Buoyed by an opening Middle 8’s success over Wakefield in their previous outing, the Red Devils were a different proposition this time.

They led 16-0 at the break as Ben Jones-Bishop, Scott Taylor and ex Wigan centre Iain Thornley crossed for tries-Thornley’s first try since April 2014. Chase’s opening try after 43 minutes plus Michael Dobson’s third conversion pushed Salford’s lead upto 22-0.

With the game slipping away, Leigh suddenly re-discovered their usual flair. Winger Adam Higson got the visitors back into contention after 51 minutes before Kurt Haggerty and Ryan Brierley opened up the Devils for Gregg McNally to finish off a long range touch down.

Leigh badly needed to score again. Instead, Chase slid in a kick for centre Junior Sa’u to touchdown and spark a run of four tries in the final 20 minutes.Dobson finished with seven goals from eight attempts.

McNally’s second try three minutes from time was no consolation for Rowley’s men. “A world class player played world class,” said Rowley of Chase’s display.

“We will soon have our swagger back but we will make sure we hurt a bit first."