LEIGH owner Derek Beaumont believes Leopards can still secure a Betfred Super League play-off berth.

And he sees no reason why the club can’t enjoy a special ending to the season if they achieve a top six slot.

Speaking on the club’s YouTube channel, (Mr) Beaumont admitted last Saturday’s 12-0 defeat at Hull KR was a “setback.”

But he remains confident Adrian Lam’s side can bridge a current seven-point gap to sixth placed Salford who have played a game more.

“The key is to get to the play-offs,” said Mr Beaumont. “It looks difficult from where we are to a lot of people.

“But when we go through the numbers then we do see a way of where that happens.

“I would like to think we can make sixth place. I would be disappointed if we didn’t, spending the full cap and with three marquees.

“But I won’t be panicking if that’s not the case. We will reload for the following year and reset goals.

“But I think we can finish sixth or above. If we do that then I believe that group of people can still make Old Trafford.”

Mr Beaumont cited the example of Leeds Rhinos who won the 2012 Grand Final after finishing the regular season fifth.

“If you take on face values some of the rumours and some of the other announcements from the other clubs then there is a certain number of people leaving here or coming to their end,” he explained.

“Leeds weren’t having the best of seasons and limped in around fifth but then won the Grand Final.

“It galvanises a group when it dissipates at the end and you want to come together and achieve something one last time before you go.”

Mr Beaumont also teased the arrival of a new signing to boost Leigh’s play-off push when the campaign resumes at Catalans Dragons on June 15.

The smart money appears to be on Australian born prop Aaron Pene who has represented Melbourne Storm and New Zealand Warriors.

The latest outgoing is front rower Nathan Wilde who has joined Doncaster on a month’s loan spell and played in last weekend’s 25-all draw with Whitehaven.

*Leigh have paid their own tribute to former Leeds Rhinos and England star Rob Burrow who lost his brave battle against motor neurone disease last Sunday, aged 41.

A club statement said: “Rob was a brilliant player who inspired everyone with his talent, dedication and sportsmanship.

“The way he confronted his illness with such courage, determination, optimism and bravery was inspirational and humbling.

“He left an enormous legacy and will always be remembered. He touched the lives of millions.

“We extend our prayers and thoughts to Rob’s family at this time from everyone connected with our club.”

*Leopards’ women made it seven wins from seven with 10 players touching down in the 62-0 win at Bradford Bulls.

Charlotte Melvin scored 22 points from a try and nine goals. Hattie Dogus continued her fine scoring record and her 15th try of the season extended her lead as club record try scorer.

Leopards return to action on June 16 when they entertain Stanningley at Twist Lane (2pm).