LEIGH Centurions gave a battling performance before going down to defeat by champions St Helens.

Centurions, still seeking their first  win in Super League, stepped it up a notch.

They showed bags of enthusiasm and effort, forcing Saints into a succession of errors.

A Matty Russell try just before the break levelled and sent the Cenurrions in with their tails up.

Two quick Saints tries after the restart looked ominous- but an Anthony Gelling intercept threw the game back into the melting pot.

Leigh kept Saints to just one further score - and unlike last week remained competitive till the end.