A NERVOUS Leigh East suffered their second consecutive defeat and must keep battling on for the one remaining National Conference League Division One promotion place.

Saturday's game was crucial for both East and second placed Castleford Panthers and in a game between two jittery teams it was the home side that made the least mistakes and made the most of their chances to guarantee themselves Premier Division rugby next season.

From time to time East looked quite capable of overturning their hosts with powerful play from Hansen and Cocker, good half back play from Peters and Kilshaw and with Redford and Cooper a constant threat. But a 14-0 start, some panicky error-filled rugby and a defence with far too many holes means the pressure is now on for East to win two of their three remaining games to ensure promotion.

It was the worst possible start with Panthers scoring converted tries in the 5th and 9th minutes and kicking a 13th minute penalty before East had any real possession. Finally as the game approached the half-hour stage an attacking spell ended with Carl Redford opening East's account.

The first half finished with the Panthers in a 26-16 lead with two tries as they exposed gaps in their visitors defence.

East hit back with a touchdown from Starkie after strong running from Cocker and the best try of the match when Peters sent Cooper racing down the wing to cut inside for a superb finish from Kilshaw. Peters kicked two first half goals.

Peters opened the second half with his third goal but more missed tackles created an overlap for Panthers who scored out wide. The game was starting to see-saw and at the other end Starkie spotted a gap for his second well taken try before a thin line of defence let Castleford in for two more tries. East had the final say with a try from Leon Brennan but this was Panthers day.

East entertain Eccles this Saturday, kick off 2.30.

Castleford Panthers 38 Leigh East 28