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SUNDAY 19th January 2014 FRIDAY 24th January 2014 Kick-off 3.00pm Kick-off 7.30pm CENTURIONS CENTURIONS v WIGAN WARRIORS v SALFORD RED DEVILS

MAIN MATCH Featuring the Arthur SPONSOR Thomas Memorial Trophy

2014 PRE-SEASOn FRIENDLIES HONOURS Championship Winners: 1905-06 FROM THE TOP Division One Champions: 1981-82 Division Two Champions: By Chairman 1977-78, 1985-86, 1988-89 Challenge Cup Winners: 1920-21, 1970-71 JOHN RODDY Lancashire Cup Winners: WHO’S WHO 1952-53, 1955-56, 1970-71, 1981-82 BBC2 Floodlit Trophy: ell, here we are in 2014 and at you to all who have bought new merchandise, and a big vote of At Leigh Centurions 1969-70, 1972-73 Wlast a chance for us all to see thanks to our Leigh Centurions Retail staff based at the market – they Promotion To Top Division our new squad in action during have really done a spectacular job; well done guys! Hon Life President Kit men achieved(Not as Champions): the next few weeks starting today Mr Tommy Sale MBE Mr Frank Taylor 1963-64, 1975-76, 1991-92 with Wigan Warriors followed by The Future: Hon Vice President Mr Sean Fairhurst Other Promotion season: Salford Red Devils, Warrington Mr Tommy Mather We believe that the future of the game and the re- Mr Andy Burnham MP 1997 (Division 3 to Division 2) Wolves and finally North Wales introduction of P&R will be announced during the period Hon Life Members Under 20’s Coach Northern Ford Minor Premiership Crusaders. that this match day programme is being read; therefore it Mr Paul Anderson Mr Brian Bowman Winners: 2001 Welcome to the individual Club Directors, Management teams and of would be wrong to comment just at this time. Mr Tommy Coleman Under 20’s Assistant Trans-Pennine Cup Winners: 2001 course their respective supporters to Leigh Sports Village. We hope However what I will say is, that whilst others have been engaged in Mr Frank Taylor Mr Steve Mayo Arriva Trains Cup Winners: 2004 that you enjoy your time with us and let’s hope for great individual discussions and debate in Super League, we at Leigh Centurions have Chairman Conditioner games whilst we all test our capabilities for the start of the season. got on with building the strongest squad and developing behind the Mr John Roddy Mr Dan Ogden LHF National League 1 Champions: 2004 You will have noted in preparation for 2014, we have attracted many scenes the most proactive team possible, to prepare us for success. Board of Management Physiotherapists new sponsors and may I take this opportunity again to thank them for The Board of Directors enjoys good relations with the RFL executive Mr Michael Norris Ms Emma Fletcher LHF National League 1 Grand Final Winners: 2004 their support and contribution; we are delighted to have you on team and I am very confident that we have firmly established Leigh Mr Derek Beaumont Ms Hannah Lloyd board. Thank you also to our regular sponsors for your continued Centurions once again as a contender for Super League in the future, Mr Andy Mazey Mr John Stopford (Under 20's) Northern Rail Cup Winners: support - it is truly valued. and that we are providing the club with the foundations to return to Mr Alan Platt Club Doctor 2006, 2011, 2013 Those of you that follow our news updates will know that we have top flight rugby league. Mr Steve Openshaw Dr Maurice Doublet-Stewart Mr Neil Wilcock been very busy in recent months, introducing new squad members Our supporters are absolutely key to that success - hence we have Ms Jackie Mottershead Club Ambassador CLUB RECORDS and hopefully providing Paul with wider options during the season, to attempted to deliver the best ticket options possible, for both season Mr Trevor Barton MBE Mr Alex Murphy OBE field his best team, to deal with each game more tactically. The Board ticket holders and individual matches during the season. We look Ms Julia Bradley Commercial Manager Biggest Victory: has been very impressed with the standard of new recruits to the forward to your continued support - the bottom line is We are in Mr Rob Parker 92-2 vs Keighley (1986) team and also how the former squad have bonded with the new this together! Head of Rugby Biggest Defeat: Lottery Manager additions – we hope that we are in for a very successful season! Mr Derek Beaumont 4-94 vs Workington Town (1995) Ms Christine Brown First Team Coach Highest Home Attendance: Behind the scenes, the Board has been very busy indeed with not only THE MASCOT FOR Mr Paul Rowley Lottery Co-ordinator 31,326 vs St Helens (1953) our commercial activities, but also finding new ways of further THE WIGAN GAME Mr Johnathan Simpkin Lowest Post War Home Attendance: improving our communication with our supporters and wider Assistant Coach The mascot for the game against Mr Neil Jukes Finance Manager 451 vs Hull (1975) community. We hope that, on the back of a very successful World Cup, new supporters will have been introduced to the sport and also to Wigan, is Eleanor Lois Dainty. Conditioner Ms Jane Smith Most Tries in a game: Jack Wood 6 v York (1947), Leigh Centurions – our job now is for the club to maintain that Eleanor is twelve years old and Mr Nathan Pennington IT & Ticket Sales attends St Mary’s Catholic High Neil Turley 6 v Workington Town (2001) interest. Training Assistant Mr Andrew Parkinson School, where she has joined the Most Goals in a game: I have received many tweets and email messages from either new Mr Thomas Wood Club Accountants school rugby team. Eleanor is no Mick Stacey 15 vs Doncaster (1976) supporters or from our existing loyal supporters, who will be bringing stranger to the game, having played Masseur Styles & Co big ambition is to represent Great Most Points in a game: to the ‘friendlies’, friends and family for the first time – which really is at Leigh East since she was eight, Britain in the future. Mr Rob Stewart Hon Programme Editor Neil Turley 42 vs Chorley (2004) great news! and has been captain there for the In addition to playing rugby, Eleanor Statistician Mr Alan Edge Most Tries in a season: last two seasons. Indeed, she was It seems that our new kits, both home and away, have gone down player of the year in 2013, and her enjoys reading and drawing. Mr Cliff Sumner Neil Turley 55 (2001) really well this year, with some really encouraging sales figures. Thank Most Goals in a season: Neil Turley 187 (2004) Most Points in a season: Neil Turley 468 (2004) CLUB CONTACTS Most Tries in a career: Mick Martyn 189 (1954-67) Telephone: Facebook: Most Goals in a career: 01942 487887 www.facebook.com/leighcenturionsfanpage Jimmy Ledgard 1043 (1948-58) Most Points in a career: Twitter: Email: John Woods 2492 (1976-85, 1990-92) General Enquiries – twitter.com/LeighCenturions or tweet us @LeighCenturions Most Appearances: [email protected] Albert Worrall – 503 (1920-38)

2 THE CENTURION www.leighcenturions.com www.leighlife.com THE CENTURION 3 FROM THE HEAD COACH - WIGAN SHAUN WANE EDITOR By ALAN EDGE WARRIORS contest, between two nations who gave it their all, in a scrupulously sporting manner. Those spectators, who were new to rugby league, including hundreds of children, must surely want to SQUAD - 2014 come back for more of ‘The Greatest Game’. For me, the spontaneous huddle of all thirty four players, at the end of the contest, was the most moving spectacle I have witnessed on a rugby pitch. No NAME No NAME s you will probably have noticed Junior Centurions 1 Matty Bowen 22 Eddy Pettybourne A by now, this match day magazine Talking of youngsters, elsewhere in this magazine, is a 2 Josh Charnley 23 Dan Sarginson contains information on TWO listing of birthdays of Junior Centurion members, during visiting teams, Wigan Warriors and 3 Darrell Goulding 24 Tony Clubb the close season. Salford Red Devils! 4 Iain Thornley 25 John Bateman Given that we didn’t have a Junior club, just two seasons ago, the As the two pre-season games against our Super League current, growing membership is a testimony to the work of John 5 Anthony Gelling 26 Ryan Hampshire neighbours take place within five days, it made sense from an Williams, who re-started the club, and Sharon Dillon and her band 6 Blake Green 27 George Williams economic viewpoint (and an editorial stress one!) to publish a of helpers who are developing what has to be a big part of the joint magazine. future of Leigh Centurions, and indeed, Rugby League in general. 7 Matty Smith 28 Rhodri Lloyd We are delighted to welcome the players, officials, and supporters 8 Scott Taylor 29 Sam Hopkins of both the Warriors and Red Devils, to Leigh Sports Village. Since The Arthur Thomas we moved into the stadium, these two clubs have been regular Memorial Trophy 9 Michael McIlorum 30 Epalahame Lauaki visitors at this stage of the ‘pre-season’ preparations. (I just can’t This trophy will now be a regular feature of one of our 10 Ben Flower 31 Dom Manfredi bring myself to use the word ‘friendly’ for any rugby league pre-season fixtures, and will be awarded to Leigh’s man 11 32 Joe Burgess game!) of the match – thus ensuring that the trophy will remain We welcome Wigan as 2013 Super League champions, and Tetley at the Leigh club. 12 Liam Farrell 33 James Greenwood Challenge Cup winners, and wish them well in their quest in The rationale behind the trophy is to honour Arthur’s time at the 13 Sean O’Loughlin 34 Lewis Tierney Australia, to add the World Club Challenge trophy, to their club, and to help us recognise our debt of gratitude to the lovely 14 Jack Hughes 35 Rob Lever silverware cabinet. Despite the exodus of a few star names from man who sadly passed away last March. their all-conquering team, most notably Sam Tomkins, the Warriors 15 Logan Tomkins 39 Jack Murphy will undoubtedly be the team to beat, once again, in 2014. Arthur supported the club for many years as a significant sponsor, before taking over as Chairman and major shareholder in 2007 16 Gil Dudson At this stage last season, Salford Red Devils were in a desperate It’s no exaggeration to say that his business acumen and 17 Dom Crosby situation, facing administration and possible demotion to the generosity probably went a long way to saving our club from Championship. Fortunately a saviour, in the form of Dr Marwan extinction. 18 Warriors Fans Koukash, stepped in, and this season’s squad is unrecognisable 19 Sam Powell Referee: Mr. J. BLOEM from the one that competed gamely in last season’s Super League. It is appropriate that this memorial trophy should be attached to Indeed, Salford can now boast a number of star names of their the Wigan fixture, as Arthur also enjoyed a spell as Chairman of 20 Greg Burke Touch Judges: own, and Brian Noble’s squad is tipped to do well this season. that club, in addition to having fulfilled a role of sponsor and Mr. P. BROOKE & MR. A. GILL director at St Helens. In my opinion, the most fitting tribute paid to 21 Andy Powell Here’s hoping that both our visitors are able to field strong squads Arthur at the time of his passing, was made by RFL CEO Nigel this week and that large numbers of supporters turn out to see Wood, who said, “Throughout his life Arthur was very passionate the best of what English Super league can offer. about rugby league and made an immense and valuable The World Cup contribution to the sport in the north west. Having served as chairman of both Wigan and Leigh, and as a director of St Helens, The 2013 RL World Cup was a spectacular success, in the Arthur was a tireless servant of the game he loved and who made UK. Alright, things could have been slightly better for a huge difference at all three clubs. Rugby league and sport England, but many of the games were witnessed by generally are poorer for his passing." record attendances, which were a pleasant surprise, after the general slump in league gates last season. We welcome representatives of Arthur’s family, to present the trophy, at the Wigan game. Much credit is due to the RFL, whose advertising and pricing policies seem to have been pitched just right for the competition. In Memoriam Locally, it was a joy to be at LSV, to witness the game between During the close season, all at Leigh Centurions were saddened two of the ‘lesser’ nations, Tonga and the Cook Islands. The to hear of the deaths of club photographer Maurice Jones, and attendance of 10,544 that wet night was comfortably a stadium former grounds man, Billy Lea. Personal tributes to these two record and the crowd was privileged to watch a close, enthralling, lovely men appear on pages 16 and 25 of this magazine. Michael McIlorum SCOTT TAYLOR SEAN O’LOUGHLIN

4 THE CENTURION www.leighcenturions.com www.leighlife.com THE CENTURION 5 IN TOWN TODAY WIGAN WARRIORS By ALAN EDGE ollowing on from their Who’s New at the DW? Fspectacular double of 2013, (Super League champions and Tetley Given the departures of some high-profile Warriors, Challenge Cup winners) Wigan Wigan’s roster of new signings appears somewhat ‘low- could be argued to be in the key’. process of re-building for Super However, previous similar acquisitions have proved spectacularly Definitely a Southerner - Tony Dan Sarginson scores a spectacular try against Eddy Pettybourne in the colours of Wests League XIX. successful and no doubt the new boys, along with those Clubb with an iconic backdrop. his new team mates. Tigers. No fewer than nine of last seasons’ squad have departed from graduating from Wigan’s Academy set-up, will ensure that the the club. Gareth Hock’s much publicised rift has become Warriors are once again one of the teams to beat, in 2014. The above statistics may suggest that Bowen’s achievements are forward – powerful, dynamic and hungry for success.” permanent, with a move, via Widnes, to Salford Red Devils, who Matt Bowen – How on earth do you replace Sam Tomkins? That all in the past, but nothing could be wider of the mark, as the 31 Dan Sarginson – Young half back Sarginson, was part of the also acquired, somewhat surprisingly, outstanding forward was the question everyone was asking when Sam’s departure year-old is still reputed to be quick, dynamic and elusive. Do deal that brought Clubb to the Warriors. Still only 20, Sarginson Harrison Hansen. Paul Prescott was sadly forced by injury, to was announced. Granted, Sam is a ‘one-off’, yet Wigan seem to those qualities sound familiar? They should, as all were displayed has already figured in 51 appearances for London, touching retire and points machine Pat Richards returned to his native have attracted a replacement who possesses similar qualities, in by Bowen’s predecessor, Sam Tomkins! Warriors’ chairman Ian down for 17 tries in the process. Although born in Perth, Western Australia, and Wests Tigers. Two more of the squad have departed Matt Bowen. Lenagan could well be right, when he announced Bowen as a Australia, Sarginson was raised in Hemel Hempstead, and started to expand their career in the NRL – Lee Mossop with Parramatta Bowen has played all his senior RL at one club, North Queensland “marquee signing” for 2014. his RL career with Hemel Stags. He scored a try on his Broncos’ Eels, and the one-and-only Sam Tomkins, with New Zealand Cowboys, following early spells with Abergowrie College, and Whilst Bowen could be argued to be ‘the wrong side of thirty’, debut against Gateshead, and two on his Super League debut in Warriors. Yet another first team regular, Chris Tuson, has joined Souths Townsville. He made 270 appearances for the Cowboys, the consistent theme of the rest of Wigan’s acquisitions is a defeat to Salford. Sarginson, who has represented England, at Hull FC, after a late change of mind about signing for Wakefield, racking up an impressive 130 tries, 36 goals, and 5 drop goals. definitely youth. under-18, and Knights’ levels, is recognised by Shaun Wane as “a while two of the squad ‘fringe’ players, Liam Carberry and Tom Matt has also represented Queensland ten times, in State of Eddy Pettybourne – At just 25, New Zealand-born Pettybourne young player with lots of potential”. Spencer, have joined Widnes and Leigh, respectively. Spencer’s Origin and was capped once by Australia, in 2004. He was NRL has already figured in over one hundred NRL games, having spent John Bateman – Bateman is another 20 year-old, who joins the move has proved hugely popular with Centurions’ fans, who leading scorer twice, in 2005 and 2007, and won the prestigious five years at South Sydney, before moving across the city to Wests Warriors from another Super League club – the troubled Bradford readily adopted him, following his barn-storming displays, as a ‘Dally M’ Full Back Of The Year award in 2007. He also holds the Tigers for the 2013 season. Bulls. Bateman shot to fame, very soon after signing for the Bulls, ‘dual-registered’ player. Cowboys’ try scoring record with 22 in a season. At South Sydney, Pettybourne came under the guidance of former from local Conference side Dudley Hill. He captained the England Warriors’ boss Michael Maguire, who rated him highly. Whilst Academy side in Australia, and won the coveted Albert happy with his relationship with Maguire, Pettybourne cited Goldthorpe Rookie of the Year award in 2012. His 35 family reasons for moving to Wests, where his strong running and appearances with Bradford yielded nine tries, although injury ability to play anywhere in the pack, brought him to the attention curtailed his season last year. of Shaun Wane, who reckons that Pettybourne’s “powerful During last season, second row Bateman became disillusioned running style, aggression in defence, and overall desire to with life at Bradford and, following a series of transfer requests, compete,” will endear him to the Wigan public. the Bulls reluctantly placed him on the market. Wigan won the Sam Hopkins Pettybourne was selected for the New Zealand squad in the 2009 race to sign one of the hottest prospects in the Game, paying Four Nations competition, but never played. He recently figured in Bradford an undisclosed transfer fee, for someone who Wane the USA’s four fixtures at the 2013 RL World Cup. recognises as having “lots of areas where he will improve.” Tony Clubb – Wigan bought the 25 year-old centre/second row Sam Hopkins - Last but not least, Wigan have acquired the forward from London Broncos. Clubb, who was born in services of our own Sam Hopkins. Sam, like many local Super Gravesend, is possibly the leading example of a ‘Southerner’ who League players, started his rugby career in the amateur game in has developed through the RL ranks, to the very top of our Game. Leigh, in his case with Leigh East. On signing for Leigh, he quickly He made his debut for Harlequins at the age of eighteen, and established himself as an outstanding prospect in the went on to amass 153 appearances for the London-based club, Championship, notching 26 tries from his 65 appearances. scoring 47 tries in the process. He made four appearances for (including 30 from the interchange bench) England, joining the select band of players who have scored four Sam, who is equally at home in the front and back rows, is still tries in a game – against Papua New Guinea, in the 2010 Four only 23 yet, according to Shaun Wane, is someone who he has Nations contest. “been keeping an eye on, for a while,” and has been ” impressed Clubb then became disillusioned with his career in the Capital, with what he has seen.” In response, Sam reckons that joining citing being “sick of losing” as his reason for wanting to leave Wigan was “an easy decision to make, as they are the biggest the Broncos. However, Clubb is also quick to acknowledge his club in Super League.” debt to the Broncos, stating that he is “thankful for what London Despite the intense local rivalry between Leigh and Wigan, I don’t did for him, as a player and a person.” reckon there is a Centurions’ supporter, who doesn’t join me in Warriors’ coach Shaun Wane is in no doubt about the qualities wishing Sam all the very best with his new club. Clubb will bring to his team – “Tony is everything I want in a

6 THE CENTURION www.leighcenturions.com www.leighlife.com THE CENTURION 7 COACH’S CORNER PAUL ROWLEY TALKS TO DAVE PARKINSON

Paul it would be fair to say that there We are looking forward to it. We’ve got two that we appreciate more than anyone the have been a few different things going very tough fixtures. It’s important that no-one competition that we face and it’s going to be on in training this close season but gets carried away. We have increased the size even more difficult because they have all before I ask you about that, you have of our squad, which hopefully has increased strengthened again. two captains? the intensity of the week in training and it is Is this why you wanted the boys to be Stuart Littler will be backs captain, Ollie Wilkes applying a lot more pressure on positions. fully prepared having arranged will be forwards captain. We were more than happy with the quality of friendlies against Super League Stuart ended last season as captain and did a player we had last year. To get the consistency opposition? fantastic job. We were never going to change that we strive for I think that competition in No, not really. The best bit about getting Super that. Playing in the backs he is a good leader, the week and on match day just needed to be League opposition down for friendlies is that and has played at all levels. He is a good cranked up. you get more money. I don’t think there is any experienced player that has got the respect of We have a healthier squad now in terms of shame in saying that. It’s lucrative for the club the players and coaching staff. the demands that the Championship throw at whilst also giving our players that opportunity. Ollie also has the respect of the players. I’ve us. From a coaching point of view it’s a massive played alongside him. I’ve known him for a Are you happy with how the challenge because we are coming up against long time and he has my respect. I know what competitive nature within the squad is two top six sides, one of which will be either he is capable of. He is a forward and he’s also building? the best or second best in the world from 2013. one of our travelling players. He represents I am, we’ve certainly brought the age of the them. team down and I think the youngsters have It is a huge challenge and both of those clubs The key ingredient of both those players is brought enthusiasm into training and would expect to dispose of us with their full their communication with me. That needs to competition. The senior players have reacted squads pretty comfortably. It gives us a chance be spot on. Bob Beswick retains his vice accordingly. to be put under a lot of pressure and see how captaincy role. We don’t need to burden him we cope with it, about how we stick together Again they have shown what they are about. and handle those situations. with making big speeches but Bob brings a lot We have always targeted the right to the dressing room and our team ethic. experienced players and they haven’t failed to What about playing and training And so to training… deliver in pre-season. They have been conditions? Yes we had a Marine camp. What I saw from outstanding and now the games come, it is We hope that it snows and freezes. Our that is that we have a lot of leaders. Everybody their turn now to drive the youngsters on. facilities mean we don’t miss any time but it at some point stood up and led; they brought As the youngsters have done it on the training disturbs the preparation of our opposition a team-mate through or brought something pitch it is up to the senior players to lead the teams throughout the Championship. The else. It was good to see and all members of way and inspire during the matches and show Cumbrian clubs last year were on to only their the squad are an inspiration in their own way. the youngsters what it is all about. fourth session and we’d done sixteen. Bring the bad weather on - the more the merrier! It certainly challenged the lads like they won’t I don’t think there has been a bigger have been challenged before. I’ve been in first team squad since the Paul Terzis You mentioned about other teams rugby a long time and have never seen days so that’s at least ten years ago? improving in the Championship, do you anything even 50 percent as hard as they did. think we are set to see another rise in There are 29 in the squad, with three having standards? The first four hours were physical and the next come up from the 20s last year. I think people twenty were mental. may be getting a bit carried away. We Yeah definitely. I think the Super League It just shows the stresses you can put the body currently have five injuries, if you take those players coming down to play in the through. There were extremes and they three out and the five injuries it takes us back Championship are not coming down with conquered it and did it. We don’t need to talk down to twenty/twenty one again. nothing left in their legs. They still have lots to about it now but we know we can use it. offer. They either have a point to prove or they We are never running round with thirty are going for an opportunity because they are The team has also been doing a lot of physical players. Last weekend we went up against the on their way up. The players are also wrestling and there is a lot of hard work that 20s and only had one specialist centre while recognising what the competition offers now. has been taking place before we actually went just after Christmas the only fit winger we had Featherstone and Sheffield will be the usual out on the field. available was Steve Maden. Everyone may be suspects but Halifax are a team that catches We had Tommy Martyn doing a session with expecting different players to be pushing the my eye at the moment. They are a good outfit. old players out if you like but like I said, Steve our kickers. That was good; we appreciated And obviously you will get the chance having someone of Tommy’s calibre. There was Maden was the only one available on the training pitch. to look at them early on with another no better kicker than Tommy. We really friendly coming up against Halifax over appreciate him coming and offering his help. I Certainly get excited by the season, because at the Shay? know the lads enjoyed it and we were very we are, but calm down a bit if you are thinking lucky to grab that opportunity. we’ve suddenly got a lot more players. Halifax did remarkably well against Castleford and their best performance of the season last He is Paul Anderson’s brother-in-law. I did ask You can become a little bit insular when you year was probably against us. We are fully him previously. With Tommy knowing the club, see what we’ve got in this town but aware of what they have to offer; they have we knew him. We all grew up together. sometimes we neglect to acknowledge the strengthened considerably and it will be From your point of view now, I guess you quality of what is outside in our competitors. interesting. can’t wait to get started on games now? As a team, players and coaching staff, I think

www.leighlife.com THE CENTURION 9 COMMERCIAL REPORT FROM ROB PARKER

ell it HAs certainly been also to know that they are ''stepping onto the field Wa busy few months in with the players,'' every game this season and that the close season for they are our ‘18th man’. everyone involved with us Once again we are proud to be working with O'Neills here at Leigh Centurions. as our kit manufacturer. O'Neills are based at the LSV For me personally the thought of retiring was by far and it has been a privilege, along with Frank Taylor, to the toughest decision of my career but now the dust be able to work with them so closely in designing our has settled I haven't had too much time to dwell on new playing shirt, along with our extremely popular not playing rugby, as I have been focusing all my leisure range, which is sold at our retail store that is attention into attracting some quality businesses to located on Leigh Market, and successfully run by be part of our bid for Super League. Frank, Christine and Gill. I would like to say a huge thank you to Nick Mussell We are constantly trying to attract new businesses to at O2 Leigh for being our main shirt sponsor for Leigh Centurions, in the hope that we are able to 2014 and I hope you will agree that the shirt looks provide our fans with a number of discounts at our amazing with their logo on. (definitely Super League sponsors, so please keep checking our website and quality) O2 Leigh are joined by Lilleymans, JMS social media for all up to date offers and support Interiors, Maxilead Metals, Bubbles and Dreams, these businesses, as they so valuably support us. Leigh Centurions Community Foundation and If you would like to know more on how your Westco, who are all new to the club, and Williams company could benefit from our business and and Co. Solicitors and Leigh Market Traders hospitality packages then please contact me at the Association, who have both shown great loyalty to us club on [email protected] or on 01942 over the years. I look forward to working with all our 487887 shirt sponsors throughout the season. Here's to a successful season both on and off the Another positive from the close season is how well field. received the signature shirt was, and I know from Regards, speaking to a number of fans how pleased they are Rob Parker knowing that they have become part of history and Commercial Manager

10 THE CENTURION www.leighcenturions.com www.leighlife.com THE CENTURION 11 THE WORLD CUP COMES TO LEIGH

d Cup and Ryan Brierley parade the Worl Alex Murphy Tonga's colourf Try for Tonga's Konrad Hurrell ul prop Fuifui Moimoi in typical action

The players join together in a moving prayer at the end of the game.

One of Chris Taripo's hat trick for the Cook Islands. The Tongans perform their haka - the Sipi Tau

The Cook Islands haka The packed East and South stands at the LSV

12 THE CENTURION www.leighcenturions.com www.leighlife.com THE CENTURION 13 A VIEW FROM UNDER A FLAT CAP By ALAN EDGE

Views expressed in this article are not necessarily those of the Leigh Centurions club, or its Directors!

It’s Good To Be Back scouring the NRL for even more Australians, who are qualified to play t last, the replica shirts that Santa for us! A brought can be worn ‘in anger’ and A New League Format that time of eternal optimism is upon Towards the end of last season, there was much positive talk us – the start of a brand new rugby of the ‘new league structure’ that will be implemented in league season. the 2015 season. Surprise, surprise – it is still being talked This is the stage of the season, when all coaches, players, directors, about. sponsors and supporters are equally optimistic about what the season What appeared to be a will hold for their particular clubs. We’re all currently equal in the unanimous decision, on league tables, and of course we are all going to win that Grand Final, the part of Sooper in October, aren’t we?! Dooper League, suddenly Alright, these next few games are only ‘friendly’ matches, (and there’s turned out to be anything a misnomer if ever I heard one – a ‘friendly’ RL game) but after a but unanimous, with six seemingly never-ending winter of no Rugby League – and they called of our top clubs wishing the winter of strikes in 1978/9 ‘The Winter of Discontent! - at last to review what they had we’ve got some action to watch! And there are good reasons for the appeared to vote in feeling of positivity, aren’t there? favour of. A sight that is to become increasingly rare in The World Cup Meetings were planned 2014 - Oldham in action at the Whitebank to take place on the 14th stadium. Anyone us who witnessed the 2013 World Cup, could not fail and 24th of this month, to have been impressed with what they saw. (didn’t someone say this would be thrashed out ‘immediately’ after We had World class athletes knocking seven bells out of each other, in the RLWC?) to move the issue of structure forward. Of course, there’s an exemplary sporting manner, before huge crowds. We had players no rush there – after all, the season is still a couple of weeks away, inter-acting with the public, before, during and after the games, and why on earth would clubs need to know what they are playing for setting a fantastic example to the youngsters whose lives they BEFORE they start? touched. How many kids in the North of England primary schools don’t now know how to perform a ‘haka’? The Northern Rail Cup Even the England team Still, even if we aren’t sure what we are playing for in the gave us cautious reason Championship this season, at least we have the Northern for optimism, reaching Rail Cup – our moment of glory in 2013 – to play for, haven’t the semi-finals, and we? coming within seconds Oh, hang on a minute, that’s been scrapped, after Northern’s of earning a chance to sponsorship expired! Suddenly, Championship One coaches, who were get annihilated by unhappy about the lack of games last season, now have even more Australia, in the Final. Of blank weekends to contemplate – Oldham’s fixture list, for example, course, coach Steve Steve McNamara , due to star in two roles - contains NINE blanks! The Wizard of Oz and Stevie English. McNamara insists we would have gone on to Premier Sports win that final, as “the huge Old Trafford crowd would have been Premier Sports coverage, along with the BBC, of the RLWC, worth several points to us.” Continuing in his positive vein, was first class. McNamara is now beating the drum for this season’s Four Nations It was good to see the Sport get so much positive coverage, and I contest, stating somewhat bizarrely that “in many respects, winning guess Premier have earned the right to broadcast the Championship the Four Nations, with a limited preparation time, will be a BIGGER leagues again this coming season, even though they will probably still FEAT than winning the World Cup.” be paying zilch for the privilege! At the time of writing this article, Indeed, McNamara is so confident about the future of our national Premier still hadn’t announced the games they were going to televise, team, that he’s decided to clear off to Australia, to become one of or even which night they would be televising them on! THREE assistant coaches at the Roosters, and do his England job part- It must be a nightmare for Championship club commercial managers, time. Whilst he is unsure exactly how he will fit in at the Roosters – trying to arrange sponsorship and entertainment, when they can’t “no doubt the role will evolve “ – he has managed to persuade the actually tell their sponsors/diners when the games will take place. RFL that he can coach the England team from several thousand miles And, to finish on a positive note – as a non-Sky subscriber, at least I away. can currently get Premier, on my Virgin Tivo box! Mind you, he should be able to spend his time in ‘Oz’ profitably, by

14 THE CENTURION www.leighcenturions.com www.leighlife.com THE CENTURION 15 MAURICE J ONES -A PERSONAL TRIBUTE

By Alan Edge Maurice Jones 1945-2013 MAURICE JONES - ARPS MPAGB

n our first issue of ‘The someone else’s torso, (imagine say Rob Parker’s shining pate, on ICenturion’ last season, I reported Ryan Brierley’s body!) or delicately inserting eyes onto the face of the sad and untimely passing of one the player who had repeatedly shut his, each time the shutter of our club photographers, Wayne clicked! Keegan. When heavy snow started to fall, before last year’s pre-season Just twelve months on, I find myself mourning the loss of our game with Swinton, Maurice phoned me, asking if the game other club photographer, Maurice Jones, who died on 30 would still be on. My advice to him was to stay at home, and not December 2013, after a brave battle with cancer. take the risk of driving. Of course, Maurice didn’t want to let To lose one of the people who brought the pages of this anybody down, turned up, took some brilliant photos, and then magazine to life, was a shock. To lose the other one, so soon spent several hours trying to get back home – eventually having after, beggars belief. No doubt we will be able to call on the to abandon his car and wade through the Ladybridge snowdrifts! services of another gifted photographer, but it will be a huge ask, As I said, 100% dedicated and reliable, was Maurice. to fill Maurice’s shoes. When he told me, before one of our later home matches last As you will see from the sub-heading to this tribute, there are a season, that he was suffering from terminal stomach cancer, I number of letters following Maurice’s name. He was an ‘Associate couldn’t believe him – he seemed so well, and full of energy. of the Royal Photographic Society’ (ARPS) and a Master of the Indeed, I watched him closely during that game, bounding along Photographic Alliance of Great Britain (MPAGB) – that’s the the touchline to get to where the action was going to take place. highest possible standard of amateur photography that can be Watching him charging about like that, it was easy to understand attained in this country. He was a member of the ‘Wigan 10 Foto why his colleagues nick-named him ‘Roadrunner’! Club’, a group of highly talented amateur photographers, who A former editor of the New York Journal, Arthur Brisbane, is have won the FIAP (Fédération Internationale de l’Art credited with the phrase, “Every picture is worth a thousand Photographique) – a kind of photographic World Cup – three words.” If this is the case, then Maurice must have contributed times now. I print below, one of Maurice’s contributions to last the equivalent of a million words to this magazine. Maurice, I year’s winning effort. As you must know, one of Maurice’s thank you for each and every one of them. I’ll miss you, and my specialities was sports action photography, and we were heart goes out to your wife Vi, and daughters Laura and Gemma. privileged to be able to publish countless examples of his talent, in ‘The Centurion’. In addition to being a member of an award winning team, Maurice also gained numerous individual accolades, but he wasn’t just a champion photographer, he was a champion person too. Maurice was an editor’s dream, just like Wayne. He was a totally reliable person, who never let me down, whatever the request, and I have some fond memories of working with him, and sharing his mischievous sense of humour. At a club photo shoot, Maurice confided in me that it was easier working with a class of infants, than our players. He was particularly grateful for digital cameras, as he had to contend with all sorts of antics from the players, such as dropping their shorts as he pressed the shutter! The lengths he went to, to achieve perfection, were legendary, including ‘air brushing’ out (sorry Maurice, I know that’s probably not the phrase these days) clocks and other intrusive objects, from the blank background he sought, inserting trainers onto the feet of players who had A contribution by Maurice to the winning Wigan 10 entry to the forgotten to bring them, placing heads of absent players onto FIAP in 2013.

16 THE CENTURION www.leighcenturions.com www.leighlife.com THE CENTURION 17 LEIGH CENTURIONS

1 Gregg McNally 18 Jamie Acton 19 Mick Govin 20 Andy Thornley 21 Simon Finnigan SQUAD & SPONSORS - 2014 Marstrut CS Civils and Groundworks AB Sundecks James QS

22 Adam Higson 23 Johnathan Pownall 24 Craig Briscoe 25 Michael Ostick 2 Steve Maden 3 Stuart Littler 4 Tom Armstrong 5 Alex Brown Impact Insurance Grada UK Linair JMS Interiors Marstrutt Junior Centurions Corlett Electrical

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18 THE CENTURION www.leighcenturions.com www.leighlife.com THE CENTURION 19 HEAD COACH - SALFORD BRIAN NOBLE RED DEVILS SQUAD - 2014

No NAME No NAME

1 Jake Mullaney 18 HARRISON HANSEN

2 Danny Williams 19 Matty Ashurst

3 Martin Gleeson 20 Adam Walne

4 Junior Sa’u 21 Jordan Walne

5 Francis Meli 22 Jason Walton

6 Rangi Chase 23 Greg Johnson

7 Tim Smith 24 Stuart Howarth

8 Adrian Morley (Captain) 25 Jordan Davies

9 Tommy Lee 26 Niall Evalds

10 Lama Tasi 27 Gareth Owen

11 Tony Puletua 28 Jon Ford

12 Gareth Hock 29 Will Hope

13 Steve Rapira

14 Theo Fages

15 Darrell Griffin

16 Andrew Dixon Referee: Mr. W. TURLEY Touch Judges: 17 Shannan McPherson Mr. T. HUDSON & MR. B. ROBINSON

RANGI CHASE ADRIAN MORLEY Francis Meli

20 THE CENTURION www.leighcenturions.com www.leighlife.com THE CENTURION 21 IN TOWN TODAY SALFORD

RED DEVILS By ALAN EDGE Jake Mullaney in action for the Eels Junior Sa'u in action for the Knights t’s difficult to know where to astonishing 238 appearances for Wigan, the 28 year-old felt that Istart on this one! Just twelve he had “achieved everything he could there” and that the move in the UK, where he has enjoyed probably the best rugby of his Steve Rapira – second row Rapira, (25) made 40 NRL months ago, the future for the to Salford “is a great new challenge.” career, guiding the Wakefield Trinity Wildcats team. appearances for North Queensland Cowboys, and New Zealand then Salford City Reds was Hansen played once for his native New Zealand, before switching Smith is recognised as possessing great vision, both tactical, and Warriors, in four seasons. distinctly uncertain, as financial allegiance to Samoa, who has now represented six times. He has technical. These qualities, allied to high skill, a deceptive running Completing Salford’s roster of new players, are four problems piled up on the club. scored 43 tries and two for Samoa. style, and an outstanding kicking game, are what attracted Brian Englishmen:- The move to a new stadium hadn’t proved the hoped-for Jason Walton - A former Hunslet Parkside and Leeds Noble to sign him as the player to make things happen for the Gareth Hock – Now 30, Hock made 191 appearances for his salvation of the problems, and the very future of the club, let scholarship player, Walton made five appearances for Salford, Red Devils. first club, Wigan, scoring 48 tries, before spending a season on alone its Super league status, was beginning to look bleak. before opting to drop down to the Championship to gain Rangi Chase – Smith’s half back partner will probably be New loan at Widnes, touching down ten more times, as well as Indeed, the uncertainty forced the cancellation of this pre-season experience, with Batley Bulldogs, where he gained a reputation as Zealand-born Rangi Chase. The 27 year-old’s first senior club was notching a rare goal. A graduate of the Wigan scholarship and fixture, at Christmas 2012. a good ‘edge’ player, with an aggressive defence. However, the Wests Tigers, for whom he played one game (scoring one try) academy systems, Hock overcame a couple of nasty leg injuries to Then along came Dr. Marwan Koukash, whose financial input and centre always dreamt of a return to his first professional club and before spending two seasons at St George Illawarra. (31 gain international recognition, by Great Britain and England. expertise has transformed the ailing club, into the vibrant he readily accepted Brian Noble’s offer of a contract. Noble had appearances, 7 tries) Chase signed for Castleford in 2009, Things started to go wrong in 2009, when the second row was organisation we see today. With shrewd new coach Brian Noble been monitoring Walton’s progress, whilst commentating on spending four years as a stand-out performer, in a struggling handed a ban, after testing positive for cocaine. Wigan stood by now at the helm, many of last season’s squad members (the latest Championship games, for Premier Sports. side, for whom he appeared 129 times, scoring 47 tries and 3 him during the ban, and Hock swiftly resumed his career, despite being Jake Emmitt, who has signed for Leigh) have departed, to be There are some famous names amongst Salford’s drop goals. the two year absence. However, his relationship with Wigan then replaced by fourteen high quality signings. If the Salford Red Devils, overseas’ signings for 2014. Chase’s four year stint at Castleford was not without controversy, soured, and he was sent out on loan to Widnes, last season. as they are now known, can gel quickly, they could well become a Francis Meli – Ex-Saint, Meli is another player with vast involving suspensions by both the RFL and his club, and leading Hock will assure Salford fans that no team will be bossing their force to be reckoned with in Super League XIX. experience at the top level of the Game, as testified by his 110 to an inevitable parting of the ways, with Salford being the pack easily - “I have always played tough and that’s not going to The New Red Devils – 2014 appearances for Auckland Warriors (60 tries) and 223 games for beneficiary of his amazing array of skills. Whilst at Castleford, change.” Chase announced his desire to be considered for selection by The departures from the AJ Bell Stadium (something else St Helens. (145 tries) 34 year-old wingman Meli has been very Tommy Lee – The Hull-born hooker has picked up considerable England, citing English roots, in his family tree! He has worn the that’s new about the club) are too numerous to expand loyal to both his senior clubs, having notched up eight years at Super League experience, despite only being 25. He spent five white shirt of his adopted country eight times, scoring one try. on, so I will concentrate on the newcomers, for this each one. Meli initially represented his native Samoa, before years with Hull (78 appearances) before doing one year stints at feature. Nine of the fourteen newcomers were born in the switching allegiance to New Zealand, and then back to Samoa. Jake Mullaney – Full back Mullaney, (23) has just completed Crusaders, (12 games) Wakefield, (27) Huddersfield, (18) and Southern Hemisphere, but it’s probably fitting to start He has eight international tries to his credit, from 21 games. his first season in the NRL, with Parramatta, where he made 18 London Broncos. (24) He was coached at Crusaders by Brian with three ‘local’ boys, who are returning to the city. Tony Puletua – Second row Puletua is another player to depart appearances. (5 tries, 6 goals) Despite being awarded the Noble, who obviously appreciates his experience and influence on accolade of “the best full back to come out of Western Suburbs, his team mates. Adrian Morley – The 36 year-old prop is returning to his roots, St Helens for Salford. The same age as Meli, (34) Puletua has also since Brett Hodgson,” he wasn’t offered a new contract by the having been born in the city and raised within a stone’s throw of spread his long career over two clubs – his home club Auckland Greg Johnson –Johnson’s first love was football, but he signed Eels. Mullaney was a record points scorer with Wests Tigers under the Willows. The former Eccles amateur has done it all, at the Warriors, for whom he played 211 games, in ten years, scoring 40 for Huddersfield Giants, following a trial. He then moved to 20’s in 2009. highest level in our Sport. His 260 games in Super League, (31 tries, and St Helens, where his 40 tries came in just five years and Wakefield, making 13 appearances in John Kear’s side. Kear was tries) with Leeds, Bradford and latterly Warrington, are 137 games. He has 28 international caps in his cabinet – 21 with Lama Tasi – During thirty appearances with the Sydney quick to take Johnson to Batley, when the chance arose, and it supplemented by 113 games in the NRL, with the Sydney New Zealand, and seven with Samoa, the most recent being in Roosters, 23 year-old second row Tasi earned the nickname of the was there that the flying winger was spotted by Premier Roosters. (7 tries) Thirty Great Britain caps, and seventeen with the 2013 World Cup. ‘Bondi Bruiser’, as a result of his huge hits and strong running commentator Noble! England, over a span of sixteen years, reflect how highly Morley is Junior Sa’u – The former Newcastle Knights and Melbourne style. He made just seven appearances for the Brisbane Broncos, rated, in British Rugby League. Storm centre is expected to make a big impact in Super League, before joining Salford. Speaking of his move from Warrington, Morley states, “It is really having built up a reputation as a hard hitting centre in the NRL, important for me to be back in Salford, as I have massive where he amassed 27 tries in 90 appearances. The 26 year-old emotional ties to the area.” Captain Morley will undoubtedly lead Aucklander represented New Zealand eight times (7 tries) before from the front, for his new club, just as he has done throughout switching to Samoa, for the recent World Cup. Coach Noble says, his distinguished career. “Junior is box office. He is an explosive talent.” Harrison Hansen – Whilst his move away from Wigan came as Tim Smith – Queenslander Smith (29) arrived in the NRL with a a major surprise, there was an inevitability that second row bang, at Parramatta, where his forty ‘try-assists’ in his first season, Hansen would turn up at the AJ Bell Stadium. His father Shane had critics hailing him as the ‘next Peter Sterling’ or ‘Andrew played for the club in the 80’s. Although born in Auckland, Johns’! After making over 70 appearances for the Eels, Smith’s Hansen’s first amateur club was Folly Lane. From there he career took a wrong turn, and suspension by his club, led to him progressed through Wigan’s academy ranks and made his first making a fresh start at Wigan in 2008. The following season, the team debut for the Warriors in 2004. Having amassed an lure of playing ‘footy’ by the sea, at Cronulla, saw Smith return to Australia. However, it wasn’t long before the scrum half was back Tony Puletua in action for Saints Latest recruit Harrison Hansen

22 THE CENTURION www.leighcenturions.com www.leighlife.com THE CENTURION 23 LEIGH CENTURIONS IN MEMORIAM COMMUNITY BILLY LEA FOUNDATION By TREVOR BARTON TWO PERSONAL TRIBUTES Dear All, how the pathway between sport and education and a respect agenda guides Community Foundation Rationale young people and their families in becoming as good as they can be. Leigh Centurions Community Foundation is intent in inspiring our whole We are also indebted to several local companies who have our community by providing our young people with pathways to participate in apprentices one day a week so that they can get a real feel as to the DAVE PARKINSON positive activity. We will work, through a range of partners, to provide world of work. various diverse activities by creating sporting and physical programmes to The Under-18s team at Wigan and Leigh College, which includes our was saddened to hear about Billy’s leading the way before other firms and people came along. engage with our young people and help them become a strong and Ipassing a few days ago and I know apprentices, is having a fantastic season and has won seven games out of Like a lot of people who served the club in their time, Billy did not vibrant part of our community. We will create an environment which will eight. Within the next two years we would hope that, with the stronger he has been unwell for some time. support learning and hopefully contribute to the improvement of self- links between local companies, schools and the College, we should be get the accolades or respect he deserved. He will not feature in confidence and employability. We will achieve this through sports able to provide our young people with a future that matches any provided Influences come in many different forms, as do opportunities and Halls of Fame, he did not play 300 games for the club or kick two leadership programmes, volunteering opportunities and by creating a by the official academies of Super League Clubs. I am proud to have Billy Lea on both of those lists. hundred goals, but he was no less important to the club in my modern and welcoming learning environment. Not only did he have the Hilton Park pitch looking and playing eyes. He worked hard at Hilton Park and I found it touching The Community Foundation Trustees In November just gone, we lost one of our the best of any rugby league surfaces, he was also a reading the tributes to him over on the Leythers Messageboard. Trevor Barton MBE – Chair rugby league supporters, Trevor Southworth, who besides being a rugby fan of both Lifeline/Super Leigh lottery agent for the club. What he didn’t His true nature often came to the fore at times of personal grief Miranda Barker know about tending fields, growth patterns, rotovators, ground to families, in organising for ashes to be buried on the hallowed Walter Brown codes, was also a keen bowler. To mark his Colin Greenhalgh passing in some tangible form, his widow temperatures and drainage was simply not worth knowing. turf. Indeed this is something he arranged for my own Grandad in Suzanne Grimshaw Norma and her wider family decided to I always found Billy to be a warm man and a generous character. 2002 Mike Tye donate £300 to the Foundation in memory For several years he came round to my dad’s house, collecting Billy also set up an opportunity for me, a meeting at the club John Duffy – Community Foundation Manager of ‘Big T’ as he was affectionately known. We are to hold an inter-schools competition lottery payment and was always willing to stop and have a chat which led to me starting the first official website in 1999. He also So, here’s to the start of hopefully a very exciting season at the Club. The on 12th February at Leigh Sports Village and about the fortunes of the team. introduced me to Ian Millward. Foundation stands firmly in support of the team and the Club and we are the competition will be named in Big T’s hoping to play our part in growing the number of people watching the I liked Billy’s straightforward and honest views, which sometimes Without those breaks it is doubtful that I would ever have written honour with Norma presenting the prizes to the participating schools. put him at odds with people, but I would sooner someone be like a word about rugby league for anyone other than myself to read. greatest game in the world and supporting the best Club in the best This is the first legacy that the Foundation has received and I think it is facilities in rugby league. a great example of how we interact that than not. I knew that he did not suffer fools and his In this respect I owe Billy everything and will always be grateful It has been a busy time, during the closed season, for the Foundation. Our with our wider community. approach could be deemed by some to be non-diplomatic but, if and very proud to have been able to call him a friend. apprentices continue to develop and have achieved various sporting and you wanted honest opinion or to really hear what was going on It is said that people come and go and the club traditions remain. educational qualifications. Through Stuart Littler, the Apprentice Co- Regards, at the club, then Billy was certainly your man. He did a lot of While I agree with this, to me people like Billy are the club. He is, ordinator, we are in more schools than ever before. The schools seem to Trevor. good work to promote the club. and will continue to be, fondly remembered - certainly by me and like the content and our approach and they are beginning to understand During the 1980s he pioneered the recording of games for the my family. LET’S MAKE LEIGH DEMENTIA-FRIENDLY club using a video camera, filming initially from the scoreboard, You will have noticed as you entered the ground today, that friendly projects in Hindley and Scholes, getting actively involved and ALAN EDGE leaflets were being handed out entitled ‘Let’s make Leigh driving what happens. Now we’re extending this to an area with a Dementia Friendly’. This is an excellent initiative promoted larger population and want to listen to what people think would t was with a heavy heart that I we play any moor games on theer, will be down to’t Parsonage!” by our Local Authority and I am sure that all of us have been improve Leigh. How can we improve the lives of people with dementia Iheard that former Hilton Park Whilst Ian had actually understood the words, being an affected by this pernicious disease and we now have a and their carers in Leigh by doing things differently? I would urge groundsman Billy Lea had passed chance to do something about it. everyone with any experience of dementia to join the conversation Antipodean, he hadn’t a clue what the ‘Parsonage’ was. away on 9th January, after his brave over a free lunch and let us know what you think will make a Billy was one of life’s gentlemen, who always greeted me as Leigh residents are now invited to decide on funding issues related to battle against cancer. dementia care. This follows the success of initiatives elsewhere in the difference. Everyone can help shape ‘dementia-friendly Leigh’ and “young man” (a term guaranteed to endear him to me!) and I Borough and we are urged to get involved this month. influence how this money is used. Billy might not have had the letters after his name, that late never tired of listening to his tales, or passing the time of day Although we have missed the first meeting held on 17th January, there People who can help to deliver a service – whether individuals, photographer Maurice Jones had, but he was just as much the with him. He would never pass you by, and always had the time is a further opportunity on Wednesday, 29th January, between 12.00 businesses, charities, or any other organisation – are encouraged to professional, in his field. for a smile and a chat. He was a truly lovely bloke. Many’s the apply for the funding to help them increase or develop what they can noon and 2.00 p.m. at Leigh Miners. We will be reflecting on what was natter we would have, when I worked at Hilton Park – learned from the first session and will be making a decision that could offer. Support may be available for anyone looking to start up a new In fact, I would suggest that what Billy achieved, on limited service if they have a worthwhile idea they are looking to get off the funds, was nigh on miraculous, at times. What he didn’t know conversations that continued after his retirement, when my wife make a difference in Leigh. The public will then vote at the final event and I would regularly bump into Billy and Hilda, when we were on Thursday 27th February where the organisations will pitch their ground, so come along to the sessions and hear what people say they about pitch maintenance wasn’t worth knowing. He was able to service to the audience. The main ‘Dragons’ Den’ event will take place need, and let us know if you can deliver it.” coax the Hilton Park pitch back to life, no matter what conditions all on the ‘grandparent run’. between 2pm and 4pm. For anyone unable to attend, an opportunity The event is free to attend but people are asked to let the the players had churned it into! The one bane of his life was that I first suspected all was not well with Billy, when I found out that to ‘speed vote’ will be available as the people pitching for the money team know if they plan on going along, so they order enough square of turf on the centre of the half way line – it just wouldn’t he’d had an artificial lawn laid at home – after all the advice he’d will be on their promotional stands for to talk about their service lobby! Call 01942 404260 or email [email protected] to grow, despite his best efforts! doled out to me about the upkeep of my lawn! between 12pm and 2pm. reserve your free place or find out more. Councillor Keith Cunliffe, portfolio holder for health and adult social The venue for all the events is Leigh Miners, Twist Lane, I remember having to act as translator for Ian Millward, when I’ll really miss our chats Billy, and your cheerful greetings. Rest in care, said: “We have already seen communities embrace the dementia Leigh, WN7 4EF. Billy was moaning about the number of games being played at peace, and my thoughts are with Hilda, and your family. Hilton Park, (by the Centurions, the Academy, Leigh RMI etc) “If

24 THE CENTURION www.leighcenturions.com www.leighlife.com THE CENTURION 25 BATLEY PLAY-OFF ACTION

adly, our popular club We never got the chance to reproduce Maurice’s action Sphotographer Maurice shots, as the game turned out to be our last of the Jones passed away in December. season. As a tribute to Maurice, we now publish those The last action photos photos, which vividly capture the team’s frustration at Maurice took for the being unable to break down our opponents, who went Centurions, were of the play- on to compete in the Grand Final. off game against Batley, at the Jason Walton blocks Simon Finnigan 's Adam Higson is confronted end of last season. progress by three Batley defenders

Martyn Ridyard attempts to open up the Bulldogs defence

Tom Spencer is stopped by George Flanagan

Keegan Hirst offers commiseration to Stuart Littler

Jon Pownall scores in the corner to level the game Martin Aspinwall feels Martyn Ridyard halts Ben the crunch Black 's progress

26 THE CENTURION www.leighcenturions.com www.leighlife.com THE CENTURION 27 LOVE RUGBY By TONY LEAGUE WILLIAMS Tony Williams

Editor: - Tony Williams is a leading journalist on the excellent ‘Love Rugby League’ website.

he Rugby League World Cup was a never have picked T resounding success, far surpassing Gareth Hock given the our expectations of what the potential, realised tournament could deliver. before the tournament There were the highly creditable performances from lower-ranked even began, for him to teams such as Italy, the USA and Scotland; there were big crowds for cause trouble on or of the opening ceremony (45,053), semi finals (67,545) and final the pitch; I would have (74,469) as well as respectable attendances elsewhere; and there included in the squad were a decent number of competitive games versus the relative lack Eorl Crabtree, given his of one-sided encounters. Gareth Hock - a risky selection for England form for Huddersfield in 2013 and in an England Such are the positive feelings stirred up by the World Cup that in a shirt on previous occasions. Nor do I think it practical to coach in the League Express survey just over half of fans polled said they feel more NRL and coach the England team part-time. confident about the future of rugby league than they did this time last year. Yet I can’t understand why McNamara is so despised. His record on the pitch isn’t too dissimilar to those who did the job previously: he That said, not everything about the World Cup was fantastic. The four finished third in the 2010 Four Nations in Australia and reached the quarter finals were of inferior quality, as was Australia’s 64-0 semi- final of the 2011 Four Nations in England and Wales, a similar record final hammering of Fiji to Brian Noble’s Tri-Nations record as Great Britain boss; he took (although this will always England to the World Cup semi finals, on paper matching Tony Smith’s be the case while three record, but with performances far more respectable than Smith’s side. sides are so superior to the other nations). The fact that Off the pitch McNamara has made sweeping improvements, with only seven games were more training camps during the season, better communication with shown live on the BBC players and the introduction of the “two-team” mentality – players while the rest were being taught to think of themselves as club players and England screened on Premier Sports players equally. This is in contrast to when Phil Clarke resigned as was disappointing – but team manager in 2006 citing "lack of leadership and direction", or come 2017 the organisers when the 2008 World Cup squad behaved not as a unit but as three can point to competitive separate groups: Leeds players, St Helens players, and the rest. games the BBC missed out It may not be practical for McNamara to continue as a part-time Eorl Crabtree - a glaring omission from on as an argument for England coach, but that’s the situation we have for the moment. the England squad greater live coverage. Overall though he’s done a good job and hopefully working in the What about England NRL under Trent Robinson can improve him that bit further, enough to though? Was their World Cup a success? On the one hand it was lead England to a Four Nations final in Australia in 2014. visibly an improvement on the 2008 effort, which included a 52-4 [email protected] hammering by Australia and a serious scare from Papua New Guinea. Twitter: @Tony_Williams88 On the other, England were still knocked out by New Zealand in the semi final – and although this was possibly the highest-quality match of the tournament, failing to reach the final was desperately THE MASCOT FOR disappointing. THE SALFORD One of the main stories over the off-season was the eventual move of GAME England coach Steve McNamara to become an assistant coach at Sydney Roosters. The discussions around McNamara’s future – The mascot for the game against whether he would move to the Roosters or to Bath rugby union, and Salford is Lewis Hill. Lewis is then whether he would stay on as England coach – revealed how eleven years old and attends Hindley High School. His favourite bafflingly hated our national coach is in a way that I can’t remember player is Ryan Brierley. being the case for his immediate predecessors. Have a great day, Lewis! I certainly don’t agree with all of McNamara’s decisions: I would

28 THE CENTURION www.leighcenturions.com www.leighlife.com THE CENTURION 29 ANOTHER VIEW FROM UNDER A FLAT CAP By ALAN EDGE LISA NEWS From LYNDA PIKE Views expressed in this article are not necessarily those of the Leigh Centurions club, or its Directors! Coach Travel LISA Sponsored Player LISA will be running a coach to the pre-season game at LISA are delighted to announce And Still On A ‘Positive’ last crisis. Halifax on 9th February 2014. The coach will leave the that they will be sponsoring the Note Meanwhile, the Broncos lurch from one crisis to another. This time LSV at 12:15 p.m. St Mary’s Way at 12:20 p.m. and ever-popular Tom Spencer this they are pinning their hopes on yet another move, this time to the There has been a lot of positivity surrounding the Atherton at 12:30 p.m. It will cost £7.00 for LISA season. Thanks to all LISA new home of Barnet FC – The Hive. Here’s hoping they don’t get Centurions, this close season. The new BOD is to be stung by this move, although with a stadium capacity of just members and £9.00 for non- members. members, whose contributions congratulated on the plethora of positive have made this possible. 5,176 – which is admittedly probably sufficient to meet their Tickets will be available this week from the retail outlet in announcements that have maintained supporters’ demands – it’s difficult to see how they are going to prosper! Leigh Market Hall. interest at a time when rugby league is generally in a state of hibernation. For the record, this is the London club’s Announcements of a range of top quality player signings have ELEVENTH move of been cleverly spaced to excite supporters but one in particular home, since they set up caught my imagination. Having just got home ‘buzzing’ after at Craven Cottage in UNDER 20s witnessing the splendid Tonga v Cook Islands World Cup clash, in 1980. The other homes a packed stadium, I was wondering how on earth we could top have been Crystal that. Then I saw the headline:- Palace National Sports “Elton John to appear at LSV!” Centre, (1984/5) FIXTURES - 2014 The Hive - new home of Barnet FC - and We’d already signed Ollie Wilkes, Jamie Acton, Sam Barlow et al, Chiswick Polytechnic hopefully twelfth time lucky for London Broncos but I had no idea we were in for Elton! Alright, the guy admittedly Sports Ground, There are only six Championship clubs running an Given the shortage of Under 20’s teams, the RFL fixture isn’t at the beginning of his playing career, but he can’t fail to (1985/90) Crystal Place National Sports Centre – again, (1990/3) Under 20’s team this season – Leigh, Featherstone, planners have once again been innovative in compiling a come good, what with coming from a legendary Australian RL Barnet Copthall, (1993/5) The Stoop, (1995/6) The Valley, (1996/7) Sheffield, Halifax, Keighley and Oldham. The fixtures twenty game fixture list. Each regional academy team will be family, and having Matthew and Andrew as his brothers. The Stoop – again, (1997/9) The Valley – again, (1999/2001) have been boosted by the addition of three regional played twice, as will Oldham. The remaining teams will be Apparently, he’s a ‘Sir’ too, so he Griffin Park, (2002/6) The Stoop – yet again. (2007/13) academies – Cumbria, the Midlands and the North played three times. Hopefully, league placings will be decided must have been outstanding Imagine being a Broncos’ fan! We only have to plot a route to East. The academies have been developed in regions on the results of all twenty games, this time! back in the NRL. Championship away grounds every other week, but they have where there are no Super League or professional Venues will be announced at a future date. Reading his blog’ on Wikipedia, almost the same problem with their home games! clubs with the capacity to develop a player pathway. he does have his idiosyncrasies. Dual Standards They say he likes to sing a bit, but that’s ok – he and Bob Warrington coach Tony Smith has been expressing DATE KICK-OFF OPPONENTS VENUE DATE KICK-OFF OPPONENTS VENUE Beswick should go down a bomb concern at the somewhat radical proposals for change in our league structures. More specifically, he bemoans the 26/02/2014 7-30pm Featherstone Rovers H 21/06/2014 2-30pm Cumbria Acadamy H with a post-match duet, in the Sir Elton in his younger days lack of provision for fostering young talent in our Sport. training with his Aussie team mates dressing room! Apparently he 08/03/2014 2-30pm Oldham A 28/06/2014 2-30pm Midlands Academy H also likes the dressing room to be He argues that, once the Sooper Dooper League clubs stuffed full with white flowers. I’m not sure how that will go voted to scrap their under 23 sides, there was nowhere 19/03/2014 7-30pm Keighley Cougars H 05/07/2014 2-30pm North East Academy A down with the aforementioned Messrs Wilkes, Acton and Barlow, for his (and other clubs’) youngsters to develop. 27/03/2014 7-30pm Halifax A 12/07/2014 2-30pm Featherstone Rovers A but I guess they’re all modern men, and I’m sure they’ll I’m with him all the way up to that point. He sees the dual accommodate the new guy’s wishes! registration system as being the replacement vehicle, for the 12/04/2014 2-30pm North East Academy H 16/07/2014 7-30pm Sheffield Eagles H On A Less Positive Note development of SL club youngsters. He doesn’t explain why he 26/04/2014 2-30pm Cumbria Academy A 24/07/2014 7-30pm Keighley Cougars A then chose Warrington’s DR relationship with Swinton to provide Whilst the owners of Sooper Dooper league clubs, such game time for the likes of Adrian Morley, Lee Briers, Paul Wood, 03/05/2014 2-30pm Midland Academy A 30/07/2014 7-30pm Oldham H as Bradford, Wakefield and London, and our neighbours Chris Bridge, and Ben Harrison – hardly the crop of his young, 07/05/2014 7-30pm Featherstone Rovers H 06/08/2014 7-30pm Halifax H Swinton, are all making positive noises, the future of developing talent! these clubs looks anything but rosy. And Finally.. 24/05/2014 2-00pm Sheffield Eagles A 16/08/2014 2-00pm Sheffield Eagles A It’s only twelve months since Bradford announced that they had a 28/05/2014 7-30pm Keighley Cougars H new owner, Omar Khan, who was in it for ‘the long haul’ and the I see that Championship One side, The University of future looked, well, bullish! Now Mr Khan has walked away, and Gloucestershire All Golds, have just revealed their 12/06/2014 7-30pm Halifax A it appears that the Bulls have racked up another mountain of playing kits for the 2014 season. debt. I hate to say ‘I told you so’ in a situation like this, but the The home kit will be light and dark blue, and the alternative kit immediate source of their financial woes – a large, well paid will be all black. Maybe they could make a start on reducing their squad, remained in situ, along with the cost implications, after the rather lengthy name, by removing ‘All Golds’?

30 THE CENTURION www.leighcenturions.com www.leighlife.com THE CENTURION 31 Junior Centurions with SHARON DILLON LOTTERY NEWS Happy New Year to all our Junior Centurions and their families! Leigh Junior Centurions are proud to announce for the 2014 season we will be The Superleigh Lottery's Annual Jackpot Superleigh Lottery Manager Christine official shirt sponsor for Tom Armstrong. Draw will take place on Friday 31st Brown commented; January. This draw will include an extra We are currently putting together Junior Member Packs for the new season and "If you're not a member of the lottery, now is they will be ready for collection at the reception desk, at our match v Batley on special prize of £2,600 which will be up definitely the time join as the Jackpot prize is 16th Feb 2014. for grabs in addition to the regular top only drawn once a year. You can join from as prize of £1,000. little as £1 per week, and of course you will be Happy Birthday to all our members who have If you are already a member of the Superleigh helping raise money for Leigh Centurions in a Lottery and continue to pay your subscriptions fun way, whilst getting the chance to win up to had a birthday since last season:- until that date then you are already eligible to £1,000 every week." OCTOBER 2013 DECEMBER 2013 win this fantastic prize. If you are not currently a You can join the Superleigh Lottery by Joshua Heyes was ten on 01/10/2013 Ethan Boylan was six on 01/12/2013 member, then time is of the essence! As an Tyler Finnigan was four on 02/10/2013 Matthew Snell was ten on 01/12/2013 telephoning 01942 487892 or by e-mailing Matthew Travers was eight on 09/10/2013 Jessica Solan-Smith was twelve on 05/12/2013 added incentive, if you join before 31st January, [email protected]. Representatives of the Declan Chilton was seven on 11/10/2013 Martin Green was eleven on 08/12/2013 you will also have a chance of winning match Benjamin Robinson was eight on 12/10/2013 Joshua Collins was ten on 08/12/2013 Superleigh Lottery will be on hand in the Jordan Wildman was five on 15/10/2013 Jacob Cottrell was ten on 09/12/2013 day hospitality for two people at a 2014 Leigh Legends Bar at the Leigh Vs Wigan game on Maya Buxton was five on 16/10/2013 Joe Gallagher was nine on 12/12/2013 Centurions Kingstone Press Championship Katie Williams was ten on 16/10/2013 Cheryl McHugh was six on 14/12/2013 19th January, and will be able to provide Georgia Blinkhorn was eleven on 21/10/2013 Harry Hesketh was nine on 16/12/2013 Happy December fixture. information and sign up new members. Olivia Rangeley was seven on 22/10/2013 Kyle Hession was four on 21/12/2013 birthday to Thomas Edge, pictured with his Olivia Sweeney was six on 23/10/2013 Jacob Smith was ten on 24/12/2013 hero Ryan Brierley You've got to be in it to win it! Olivia Barlow was thirteen on 23/10/2013 Crystal Chilton was eleven on 26/12/2013 Jack Farrimond was eight on 26/10/2013 Jacob Farrimond was ten on 26/12/2013 Luke Boardman was eight on 30/10/2013 Natalya Brown was ten on 28/12/2013 Thomas Edge was nine on 29/12/2013 Ben Ridge was ten on 27/12/2013 AGENTS WANTED Superleigh Lottery NOVEMBER 2013 JANUARY 2014 We are looking for Lottery Agents in the Company Members Robyn Rangeley was eight on 05/11/2013 Kian Robb was seven on 01/01/2014 Leigh, Atherton and Lowton Areas. Jonas Eddleston was six on 06/11/2013 Caden Stephens was seven on 01/01/2014 • CORLETT ELECTRICAL Ben Monkmoon was seven on 07/11/2013 Jacob Whitworth was twelve on 02/01/2014 We have ready made rounds available. Good • JR TAXIS Mervin Smith was ten on 08/11/2013 Callum Forshaw was nine on 05/01/2014 Tom Armstrong - Commision paid. James Medling was twelve on 09/11/2013 Tegan May was four on 07/01/2014 sponsored by the Junior • JR MINI BUSES Billy-Joe Ogden was eight on 10/11/2013 Cora Ogden was seven on 09/01/2014 Centurions. Agents who bring in over £30.00 per week • JR AIRPORT EXPRESS Molly Barrett was ten on 11/11/2013 Caleb Morgan was ten on 13/01/2014 receive a free season ticket. Joshua Clarke was eleven on 11/11/2013 Maiya Stringer was thirteen on 14/01/2014 • MMI ENGINEERING Brandon Niazmand was eight on 15/11/2013 Adam Carter-Bailey was twelve on 15/01/2014 • TAYLOR DRILLING SERVICES Joseph Sweeney was ten on 16/11/2013 Lily Jones was nine on 17/01/2014 Leah Clegg was three on 16/11/2013 Isabelle Lewis was eight on 17/01/2014 • DK MOTOR ACCESSORIES Savannah Travis was nine on 19/11/2013 Elise Stephens will be ten on 21/01/2014 RUGBY • MUNCHIES John Jackson was seven on 20/11/2013 Billy Southworth will be nine on 24/01/2014 Jessica Carter-Bailey was nine on 20/11/2013 Evelyn Hindley will be five on 29/01/14 • HATTONS SOLICITORS Ben Cooke was eight on 23/11/2013 Adam Blumsum will be nine on 27/01/2014 CARDS • ROYAL OAK Tilly Birt was nine on 24/11/2013 Sean Green will be ten on 31/01/2014 Poppy Mort was eight on 28/11/2013 • LANCASTRIAN LEISURE We now have rugby cards available to • ASK PLATT OFFICE SUPPLIES generate extra revenue for the club. • THE CENTURION PUB www.leighcenturions.co.uk for more info Can you sell a rugby card to family and • INTEGRATED CONTROL SOLUTIONS friends. Join us for free today and don’t miss out! • PENNINE UTILITIES The cards are made up of 50 squares at • DARREN LEWIS PLUMBING 50p a go. The prize is 1 Adult Match Ticket • RED LION ATHERTON to a game of the winner’s choice. If you S & J AUTOS can help contact the ticket office on 01942 • • THE ALE HOUSE We would like to thank our official sponsors for the Junior Centurions, ASK Platt, Atico Hair Studio, Matrix Tax and C & S Tyres UK Ltd. 487892.

32 THE CENTURION www.leighcenturions.com www.leighlife.com THE CENTURION 33 As a result of our untimely defeat at the hands of Batley, in the play-offs, we were unable to bring you a final ‘Facts ‘N Stats’ table for 2013 season – so here it is. Watch out for a new ‘Facts ‘N Stats’ CENTURIONS when the 2014 season proper gets underway. LEIGH CENTURIONS Congratulations to Jonny Pownall who clocked up his 50th appearance for FACTS & STATS 2013 the club that day, to Martyn Ridyard on another 280 points for the season, and to Ryan Brierley, who once again finished top try scorer, with 25. FIXTURES - 2014 20123 013 LLeeigighh C Caarreeeer r Debuted Squad No DOB Apps Sub Tries Goals Drop Points Apps Sub Tries Goals Drop Points Goals Goals The fixture list is subject to change, when Premier Sports select which games they intend Martin Aspinwall 2013 13 21/10/1981 9300 0 0 9 3 0 0 0 0 to televise. As soon as any changes are known, they will be published on the Club Anthony Bate 2013 28/04/1992 3820 0 8 3 8 2 0 0 8 website, in the local press, and in future editions of ‘The Centurion’. Bob Beswick 2012 9 08/12/1984 32 15 0 0 20 55 48 0 133 Ryan Brierley 2012 7 12/03/1992 23 6 25 12104 30 26 50 62214 Craig Briscoe 2010 16 08/12/1992 8910 0 4 28 24 80 032 Date Opposition Comp Joe Bullock 2013 27/11/1992 1600 0 0 1 6 0 0 0 0 February NEXT UP Greg Burke 2012 12/02/1993 3000 0 0 3 1 0 0 0 0 Sun 16th BATLEY BULLDOGS CHAMP Thomas Coyle 2013 17 10/05/1988 2000 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 AT LSV Dominic Crosby 2013 0100 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 Sun 23rd Barrow Raiders CHAMP Ryan Duffy 2013 21 13/05/1993 5 18 40 0 16 5 18 40 016 March Simon Finnigan 2013 11 08/12/1981 27 0 12 0048 27 0 12 0048 Sun 2nd WHITEHAVEN CHAMP Matt Gardner 2012 4 24/08/1984 28 0 12 0048 58 0 26 00104 Sun 9th Keighley Cougars CHAMP Tommy Goulden 2010 12 30/06/1981 25 39 0 0 36 98 10 40 00160 Adam Higson 2008/2013 22 19/05/1987 6140 016 45 22 17 0068 Sun 16th Challenge Cup 3 TCC3 James Hill 2013 2000 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 Sun 23rd NORTH WALES CRUSADERS CHAMP SUNDAY 26th January 2014 Pre-season game Sam Hopkins 2011 8 17/02/1990 17 10 10 0040 35 30 26 00104 Sun 30th ROCHDALE HORNETS CHAMP Jack Hughes 2013 1000 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 April CENTURIONS Stuart Littler 2011 3 19/02/1979 34 08 0 0 32 93 1 31 00124 Sun 6th Challenge Cup 4 TCC4 v Rhodri Lloyd 2013 22/07/1993 3000 0 0 3 0 0 0 0 0 North wales Gregg McNally 2012 1 02/01/1991 32 0 14 19 0 94 60 0 31 20 0 164 Sun 13th Halifax CHAMP Steve Maden 2004/2008 2 13/09/1982 30 0 10 0040 206 3 73 00292 Fri 18th SWINTON LIONS CHAMP crusaders Anthony Nicholson 2010 18 28/11/1990 2610 0 4 19 26 80 032 Kick-Off 3:00 p.m. Sun 27th Challenge Cup 5 TCC5 All to pay John O'Donnell 2013 24/06/1993 6120 0 8 6 1 2 0 0 8 May Michael Ostick 2012 19 23/01/1988 28 35 0 0 20 46 85 0 020 Rob Parker 2012 10 05/09/1981 15 32 0 0 8 36 56 0 024 Sun 4th Featherstone Rovers CHAMP Sean Penkywicz 2013 14 18/05/1982 12 19 10 0040 12 19 10 0040 Sun 11th Dewsbury Rams CHAMP Cameron Pitman 2013 1000 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 Sun 18th DONCASTER CHAMP Jonny Pownall 2011 5 22/08/1991 28 0 17 0068 48 2 30 00120 Sun 25th Sheffield Eagles CHAMP Martyn Ridyard 2009 6 25/07/1986 30 09121 2 280 122 10 62 280 4 812 June Chris Rowe 2012 23 08/02/1994 0000 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 SUNDAY 2nd February 2014 Tom Spencer 2012 02/01/1991 14 12 40 0 16 25 19 70 028 Sat 1st Workington Town CHAMP Pre-season game James Taylor 2005 20 11/09/1984 4620 0 8 148 36 24 0096 Sun 8th HALIFAX CHAMP Scott Taylor 2013 27/02/1991 0210 0 4 0 2 1 0 0 4 CENTURIONS Sun 15th BARROW RAIDERS CHAMP Andy Thornley 2011 15 01/03/1989 10 18 30 0 12 26 42 10 0040 v Iain Thornley 2013 1000 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 Sun 22nd Whitehaven CHAMP Warrington Totals 442 136 172 141 4 974 1255 327 493 306 7 2591 Sun 29th DEWSBURY RAMS CHAMP Wolves July Kick-Off 3:00 p.m. TRY CREATORS Individual Pass Kick Other Total Sun 6th SHEFFIELD EAGLES CHAMP All to pay Goal Kickers Goals Attempts % Martyn Ridyard 4 17 11 0 32 Martyn Ridyard 121 158 77 Sean Penkywicz 10 13 30 26 Sun 13th Doncaster CHAMP Ryan Brierley 13 33 Gregg McNally 6 15 30 24 Gregg McNally 19 24 79 Ryan Brierley 872017 Sun 20th KEIGHLEY COUGARS CHAMP Bob Beswick 01 0 Bob Beswick 391013 Sun 27th Rochdale Hornets CHAMP Totals 141 186 76 Simon Finnigan 064111 Tommy Goulden 190010 August Sam Hopkins 52007 Matt Gardner 24006 Sun 3rd Batley Bulldogs CHAMP Jonny Pownall 13015 TRY TRACKER After 17 games Stuart Littler 13004 Sun 10th FEATHERSTONE ROVERS CHAMP SUNDAY 16th February 2014 Steve Maden 11114 Sun 17th Swinton Lions CHAMP Kingstone Press Try Tracker – For Try Tracker – Against Anthony Nicholson 02103 Championship - Round 1 0-9 minutes 15 0-9 minutes 8 Scott Taylor 11002 Sun 24th John O'Donnell 01001 10-19 minutes 15 10-19 minutes 20 Sun 31st WORKINGTON TOWN CHAMP CENTURIONS 20-29 minutes 18 20-29 minutes 13 Michael Ostick 10001 30 minutes – half-time 24 30 minutes – half-time 15 Ryan Duffy 10001 September v Thomas Coyle 01001 40-49 minutes 17 40-49 minutes 15 Greg Burke 01001 BATLEY BULLDOGS 50-59 minutes 25 50-59 minutes 18 Sun 7th North Wales Crusaders CHAMP Anthony Bate 10001 Kick-Off 3:00 p.m. 60-69 minutes 33 60-69 minutes 10 Iain Thornley 01001 CHAMP = Kingstone Press Championship SEASON TICKETS APPLY 70 minutes – full-time 25 70 minutes – full-time 24 Rhodri Lloyd 01001 172 123 Totals 46 97 26 3 172 TCC = Tetleys Challenge Cup

34 THE CENTURION www.leighcenturions.com www.leighlife.com THE CENTURION 35 LEIGH CENTURIONS

HEAD COACH - SQUAD - 2014 PAUL ROWLEY

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1 Gregg McNally Marstrutt 2 Steve Maden JMS Interiors 3 Stuart Littler Marstrutt 4 Tom Armstrong Junior Centurions 5 Alex Brown Corlett Electrical 6 Martyn Ridyard Intergrated Control Solutions LTD 7 Ryan Brierley ONeills 8 Tom Spencer L.I.S.A. 9 Bob Beswick Ask Platt Office Supplies 10 Oliver Wilkes Prof. Barry Dale 11 Matthew Sarsfield Pam Ties 12 Tommy Goulden CDA Business services 13 Sam Barlow The Shield Group 14 Sean Penkywicz HFL 15 Liam Kay AB Sundecks 16 Martin Aspinwall C & S Tyres UK 17 Matt Gardner Liniar 18 Jamie Acton C S Civils and Groundworks 19 Mick Govin AB Sundecks 20 Andy Thornley 21 Simon Finnigan James QS 22 Adam Higson Impact Insurance 23 Johnathan Pownall Grada UK 24 Craig Briscoe 25 Michael Ostick Liniar 26 Ryan Duffy 27 Anthony Bate Taylor Drilling 28 Joe Bullock Prof. Barry Dale 29 Jake Emmitt

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