MICKY Higham and Leigh Centurions break new ground on Sunday with a first ever visit to Bootham Crescent to face Betfred Championship newcomers, York City Knights. (kick-off 3pm).

And after earning credit in defeat against leaders Toronto Wolfpack at Leigh Sports Village last Sunday, John Duffy’s side is keen to return to winning ways.

At the same time James Ford’s progressive outfit were beating Bradford Bulls 24-14 at Odsal to move third on the ladder with a third win in four games.

York’s impending move to a new community stadium has been delayed so the club stays at Bootham Crescent-home of National League North football side, York City.

“I was thinking recently I have played at most grounds but this isn’t one of them,” said Higham who recently completed two decades as a first team player.

“It’s good to know there is always a first for some things even after 20 years. I don’t even remember definitely if I have come up against York before though I reckon I probably have.”

Chairman and stats wizard Mike Latham duly confirmed Higham did pull on a Leigh jersey against York back in 1999 and again in 2000.

“I am led to believe York are playing good rugby and will be full of confidence,” said the 38-year-old Centurions evergreen hooker.

“The challenge for us is to bring the same intensity and desire as we showed against Toronto to places like York.

“I couldn’t fault our effort level and desire,” he said of Leigh’s 14-8 defeat against Brian McDermott’s Wolfpack. “It kept us in the game.

“But attacking their line with good ball we panicked a bit and weren’t quite at the races.

“We have had a few changes of personnel but it was no excuse. And it was disappointing not to get something out of the game.

“When you have chances down there like a good side against Toronto then you have got to take them.

“It looked pretty at times but we weren’t really knocking on the door and causing problems.”

Leigh have won two and lost two of their opening four fixtures and sit seventh on the table but on the same points as Toulouse, crisis club Widnes and Featherstone.

“We have had a tough start against sides who are going to be there or thereabouts come the end of the season,” added Higham.

“Maybe at the start of the season we might have taken two wins out of four.

“But knowing how we can play, we are disappointed we haven’t got more from this start.”

Winger Jonny Pownall is available again after serving a one-match ban for questioning the integrity of a match official during Leigh’s defeat at Halifax on Sunday, February 17.

On loan St Helens prop Luke Douglas is also expected to feature again after his initial month deal expired. “He is still with us and we have sorted that out with Saints,” said head coach John Duffy.