PROUD Kurt Haggerty saluted his team's perfect response to pre-game criticism by owner Derek Beaumont after Ryan Brierley inspired Leigh to only their second Betfred Super League win of 2021, 26-18 against Wakefield

Beaumont slammed Haggerty's squad in a remarkable attack in his programme column, accusing the playing group of surrendering belief and desire during Centurions' Magic Weekend defeat to Hull KR.

He also accused the players of not caring for themselves or the club and hinted at a lack of support from the players to a charity ride he undertook to raise money for Cancer Research.

But there was no lack of effort or commitment as Leigh hit back from 18-10 down against Wakefield, with Brierley leading the way courtesy of a hat-trick and three goals.

Forwards Adam Sidlow and Sam Stone - with his first for the club - completed the scoring.

"There's no hiding that in some games we haven't competed well enough," agreed Haggerty.

"But I don't really want to talk about it (Beaumont's blast). It was irrelevant really and the lads just wanted to play rugby.

"I just want to talk about us winning the game. The effort was fantastic.

"We have spoken about being resilient and sticking in there when things don't go our way and believing in doing it for each other.

"They certainly did that and I am really proud of them. We were busted before the game with centres on the wing, back rowers in the centre, a 13 at six and a pivot on the bench.

"So, it is a really good win. I am really happy for the fans because they could see the effort."

On Brierley's contribution - also including vital late try-saving tackles on Innes Senior and Reece Lyne - Haggerty said: "You can see how much it means for Ryan to play for Leigh.

"He has been fantastic all year for us. and to do it in the last home game is fantastic for him."