Download Now - Leigh Centurions

CHAMPIONSHIPS UNDER 20s GRAND FINAL
LEIGH CENTURIONS
v
SHEFFIELD EAGLES
FRIDAY 5TH SEPTEMBER 2014
AT LEIGH SPORTS VILLAGE • KICK OFF 8.00PM
SPECIAL SOUVENIR PROGRAMME
Match Sponsor
PRICE
£1.00
HONOURS
Cover Star:
Leigh Reserves
line up at
Golborne before
their game
against Cumbria
Academy
WHO’S WHO
At Leigh Centurions
Hon Life President
Mr Tommy Sale MBE
Hon Vice President
Mr Andy Burnham MP
Hon Life Members
Mr Brian Bowman
Mr Tommy Coleman
Mr Frank Taylor
Mr John Massey
Board of Management
Mr Michael Norris - Chairman
Mr Derek Beaumont
Mr Andy Mazey
Mr Alan Platt
Mr Steve Openshaw
Mr Neil Wilcock
Ms Jackie Mottershead
Mr Trevor Barton MBE
Head of Rugby
Mr Derek Beaumont
Head Coach
Mr Paul Rowley
Assistant Coaches
Mr Neil Jukes
Mr Simon Finnigan
Conditioner
Mr Nathan Pennington
Training Assistant
Mr Thomas Wood
Masseur
Mr Rob Stewart
Statistician
Mr Cliff Sumner
Kit men
Mr Frank Taylor
Mr Sean Fairhurst
Mr Tommy Mather
Under 20s Coach
Mr Paul Anderson
Under 20s Assistant
Mr Steve Mayo
Conditioner
Mr Dan Ogden
Physiotherapists
Ms Emma Fletcher
Ms Hannah Lloyd
Mr John Stopford (Under 20's)
Club Doctor
Dr Maurice Doublet-Stewart
Club Ambassador
Mr Alex Murphy OBE
Lottery Manager
Ms Christine Brown
Lottery Co-ordinator
Mr Johnathan Simpkin
Finance Manager
Ms Jane Smith
IT & Ticket Sales
Mr Andrew Parkinson
Commercial Sales
Mrs Amanda Lee
Club Accountants
Styles & Co
Joint Programme Editors
Mr Allan Rowley
and Mr Mike Latham
Official Club Photographer
Mr Brian King
CLUB CONTACTS
2
Telephone:
01942 487887
Facebook:
www.facebook.com/leighcenturionsfanpage
Email:
General Enquiries –
[email protected]
Twitter:
twitter.com/LeighCenturions
or tweet us @LeighCenturions
THE CE N TURION
Championship Winners: 1905-06
Division One Champions: 1981-82
Division Two Champions:
1977-78, 1985-86, 1988-89
Challenge Cup Winners:
1920-21, 1970-71
Lancashire Cup Winners:
1952-53, 1955-56, 1970-71, 1981-82
BBC2 Floodlit Trophy:
1969-70, 1972-73
Promotion To Top Division
achieved(Not as Champions):
1963-64, 1975-76, 1991-92
Other Promotion season:
1997 (Division 3 to Division 2)
Northern Ford Minor Premiership
Winners: 2001
Trans-Pennine Cup Winners: 2001
Arriva Trains Cup Winners: 2004
LHF National League 1 Champions:
2004
LHF National League 1 Grand Final
Winners: 2004
Northern Rail Cup Winners:
2006, 2011, 2013
Kingstone Press Championship
League Leaders: 2014
CLUB RECORDS
Biggest Victory:
92-2 vs Keighley (1986)
Biggest Defeat:
4-94 vs Workington Town (1995)
Highest Home Attendance:
31,326 vs St Helens (1953)
Lowest Post War Home Attendance:
451 vs Hull (1975)
Most Tries in a game:
Jack Wood 6 v York (1947),
Neil Turley 6 v Workington Town (2001)
Most Goals in a game:
Mick Stacey 15 vs Doncaster (1976)
Most Points in a game:
Neil Turley 42 vs Chorley (2004)
Most Tries in a season:
Neil Turley 55 (2001)
Most Goals in a season:
Neil Turley 187 (2004)
Most Points in a season:
Neil Turley 468 (2004)
Most Tries in a career:
Mick Martyn 189 (1954-67)
Most Goals in a career:
Jimmy Ledgard 1043 (1948-58)
Most Points in a career:
John Woods 2492 (1976-85, 1990-92)
Most Appearances:
Albert Worrall – 503 (1920-38)
www.leighcenturions.com
FROM THE TOP
Welcome to our visitors
The big games keep coming thick and fast at Leigh
Sports Village and after the excitement of the Heritage
Game last Saturday we now have a Grand Final to look
forward to.
Paul Anderson’s Reserves team have played some fantastic rugby
this season and I have been fortunate to see many of their games.
They deserve the opportunity to play at Leigh Sports Village this
evening. I would like to welcome the players, officials and
supporters of Sheffield Eagles to LSV and hope you all enjoy what
is sure to be a great occasion.
THE SEASON SO FAR
Leigh Reserves Team has been a great success story this
year and to go through the league campaign with only
one defeat speaks volumes for the quality of the rugby
they have played.
That defeat was against Halifax and it was one of the few
occasions where the team had an off-day.
To score over one thousand points during the league season has
been a great team effort and one that all the players have
contributed towards.
It has also been great to see the attitude of players who have
dropped out of the first-team squad when playing for the
Reserves. All have displayed great professionalism and never let
their standards slip.
I’d like also to acknowledge the dedication of the support staff in
helping the Reserves team run so smoothly in 2014, particularly
Reserves Team Manager Don Boyle and Kitman Frank Taylor who
have not missed a game as far as I can recall.
JOSH WARD
It’s not really fair to single out one player from what, as I
say, is a tremendous team effort.
But I must pay particular credit to Josh Ward who has had a
prolific points-scoring record this year. Without doubt Josh is one
of the best goal-kickers I have ever seen in a Leigh jersey.
PROGRESSION
Another pleasing aspect of the season has been the way
that players in the Reserves have earned their
opportunities at first-team level this year.
Chris Hankinson and Lewis Foster, for instance have made their
debuts for Paul Rowley’s side this year and Jamie Tracey has also
earned a full-time contract with his performances. Many more of
today’s talented squad are sure to feature in the first team ranks
in the years to come and it just goes to show what a fabulous
conveyor belt of talent we have in the town.
COMMUNITY CLUBS
It has been terrific to take our home games ‘on the road’
this year and we have been welcomed with open arms
by our friends at Leigh East, Leigh Miners, Golborne
Parkside and Leigh RUFC.
We thank them all for accommodating us this year which has
further strengthened the bond between the town’s senior club
and the community clubs. These games have been popularly
received and have attracted some very sizeable crowds. The
community clubs have benefitted from gate takings and profits
from the club house, so it has been a ‘win win’ situation for all
concerned. I must thank my fellow Board members, particularly
Derek Beaumont, Andy Mazey and Steve Openshaw for all their
hard work in making these events possible. On top of that the
Leigh Centurions Players Association recently played a cricket
match at Leigh CC as part of the Heritage celebrations.
LEIGH CENTURIONS TV
As well as their excellent coverage of the first team Fred
Parkinson and his son Andrew have done a sterling job filming
most of the Reserves team fixtures for us all to enjoy and I would
like to thank Fred and Dave for their dedication in making this
possible. Leigh Centurions TV is a fantastic product and at only
£32 per year must be the best value subscription in Rugby
League.
TONIGHT’S GAME
I’d like to thank all the people who have made this game possible
and the officials at LSV for kindly accommodating the game and
giving players of both sides the opportunity to play a game of this
importance on such a great stage. Thanks to all the advertisers
and sponsors who have made this programme possible this
evening and to all the Centurions fans who have followed Paul
Anderson’s side in 2014. A special thanks to Gary Pendlebury for
sponsoring this evening’s match and the Man of the Match
award. I know that Paul and the players and staff really
appreciate your support.
Best wishes
Mike
Mike Norris, Chairman
COACH’S
CORNER
PAUL ANDERSON
LOOKS BACK ON
A REMARKABLE
SEASON
As a player you don’t get too many opportunities
to play in a final and I’m sure our players and
those of our opponents have been eagerly
awaiting this evening’s game.
This evening is just reward for the players of both sides
for the effort and dedication they have put into what
has been a long, hard but hugely enjoyable season.
It is extra special to be playing the game at Leigh Sports Village
and I’d to thank Derek Beaumont, Mike Norris and the Board for
making this possible.
I’d also like to thank all the supporters who have followed us
throughout the season and to Fred Parkinson and his son Andrew
for their tremendous coverage on Leigh Centurions TV.
We completed our league season with the tremendous record of
played 20, won 19, lost one. That defeat, against Halifax still
rankles with me and I often wake up in the middle of the night
thinking about that game. It was one of the rare occasions when
we didn’t turn up to play and we paid the price.
That game aside though we’ve played some tremendous rugby
and unearthed some great prospects for the Club, which is after
all what we’re about.
Lewis Foster, Chris Hankinson and Cameron Pitman have all
earned first team opportunities having impressed in the Reserves
team and it shows there is a pathway for young, ambitious
players.
Cameron is a case in point. He paid his own fare from Australia,
bided his time and was patient, playing in the Reserves until his
chance came to play in the first-team.
After an intense preseason and several friendly games, including
a really good win against a full-strength Oxford team, we started
off our league programme back in February with a home win over
Featherstone Rovers and ended it in August with really impressive
back to back wins in Yorkshire at Halifax and Sheffield Eagles.
In between we’ve played some great rugby and run in some big
scores, scoring over one thousand points. The tries have been
shared around the team which shows what a great team effort it
has been. On top of that Josh Ward has had a phenomenal
season with the boot- he is one of the best goal-kickers I’ve seen.
One of the most satisfying things for me is the way we have
engaged the community clubs and staged games at Leigh Miners,
Leigh East, Golborne Parkside and that ground-breaking game at
Leigh RU Club. Everywhere we’ve gone we’ve had a great
welcome and the support has been tremendous. That’s helped to
get the kids interested in the game and has been really good for
us.
Another satisfying thing has been the way the Academy sides we
played showed a big improvement over the season which can
only be good for Rugby League.
www.leighlife.com
I must thank my staff who have given me great support over the
year. Club stalwart Don Boyle took on the onerous job of Team
Manager and has provided all the administrative support as well
as coming to every game. Simon Finnigan suffered the
disappointment of seeing his playing career come to an end
through injury but has really enjoyed his new career on the
coaching side and as player welfare officer. He’s been brilliant
and it’s no surprise to see our back rowers develop this season
under Simon’s eye. Steve Mayo has come to us having set up
Atherton Dragons and has been on a learning curve that he has
thoroughly enjoyed.
Steve Maden.has played over 200 first-team games for Leigh and
had a great career but after losing his place in the first team he’s
come to us, played some games, helped out wherever he can,
running on the water and the like and been fantastic. He always
wants to help and is always there to advise the younger players.
He’s an object lesson in putting something back into the game.
All the first-team players who have played in our team have
impressed with their attitude and willingness to get involved
helping the younger lads. That’s the spirit we have running
throughout the Club and the support of Paul Rowley and Neil
Jukes has been really appreciated.
Our support staff of physiotherapists, doctors, conditioners and kit
men have been superb and we wouldn’t be able to play the
game without them.
He won’t want any recognition but I must pay special tribute to
Frank Taylor and thank him for being at every game this season
and loads of training sessions, too. Frank, you’re a legend!
I must also thank all the Board of Leigh Centurions for their
support. It was brilliant to see so many board members attending
and enjoying our games, not just the home ones but the away
games as well. Head of Rugby Derek Beaumont’s enthusiasm and
passion for the Club is contagious. Andy Mazey kindly sponsored
the portable dug-outs which enabled us to stage games at the
community clubs and meet RFL guidelines and he and Steve
Openshaw did a lot of work behind the scenes to enable us to
take our home games on the road and engage with the
community.
This evening is a big game and one we’ve all been looking
forward to. I’m sure it will showcase the very best in Rugby
League and demonstrate what a tremendous competition the
Championships Under-20s has been this year.
Enjoy the game!
Paul Anderson,
Leigh Centurions Reserves Head Coach
THE CE NTURION
5
CAptain’S
CORNER
RES ERVES
Mike Latham spoke to Reserves Team Captain Matt
Pendlebury ahead of this evening’s Grand Final.
ML- First of all Matt, it must be great
to be back playing after your
shoulder injury?
MP - Yes, the problem was a cartilage in
my shoulder but it’s all fixed now and I’ve
come back from it really well and felt
strong.
ML- You’ve played with quite a few
of the players for a long time.
MP - Yes, some of the St Helens lads like
Brad Ashurst and then locals like Josh
Ward since John Duffy and Stu Littler took
us in the Under 18s. I was gutted for Brad
when he got injured in the friendly at York.
He’s had a knee reconstruction on his ACL
and that’s ruled him out of the rest of the
season.
ML- Ever played with a better goalkicker than Josh Ward?
MP - I have played some decent ones but
Josh doesn’t seem to miss. When I signed
from Leigh East I wasn’t a bad goal-kicker
myself but there’s no shifting Josh. Fair
play to him, though, as is always practicing
and he puts the time in.
ML- Looking back over the season
it’s been tremendous hasn’t it?
MP - It’s been really good- a good set of
lads and a great coaching staff. We’ve had
lots of first teamers playing as well and
their attitude has spot-on. Paul Rowley
has put a really strong side and squad
together and so that means a few of the
squad have played Reserves. They’ve been
a big part of the season- players like
Martin Aspinwall, who’s played a lot of
Super League, Steve Maden and so on.
Jamie Acton was in the 20s recently and
put in a Man of the Match performance.
Ryan Duffy and Cameron Pitman are two
others who have done really well.
ML- The season has been a big team
effort hasn’t it?
MP - Absolutely. We’ve had no superstars,
just a great team ethic and we’ve all
mucked in together and played some nice
rugby.
www.leighlife.com
ML- How big an influence have been
your Dad (Gary, #1027) and Uncle
(John, #1041), with them both being
ex professionals and ex Leigh
players?
MP - Both have influenced me, my Dad
more so. He’s guided me throughout my
career, told me where I needed to improve,
told me a few home truths when they
were needed, listened to me on occasions
when I’ve felt down. Coming back from
injury he’s been there for me with lots of
help and advice.
ML- Looking ahead to the Grand
Final, how good is it to be playing at
LSV?
MP - It’s going to be outstanding. We
played there against Sheffield Eagles in
the curtain raiser to the Keighley game
and all the players really enjoyed it. It was
a great experience, we soaked it all up and
it made us want to be the best we could.
The Grand Final, under floodlights, will be
fantastic and hopefully we’ll get a good
crowd cheering us on and creating a good
atmosphere.
ML- Have you ever played in a Final
before?
MP - Just once before, for Leigh East
against Thatto Heath. Jamie Tracey and
Leon Tatlock were in the opposition ranks
that day. Leon in particular had a great
game and won Man of the Match and we
lost that day.
ML- Why does the town of Leigh
produce so many good players?
MP - There’s a good coaching set-up,
good facilities and lots of people willing to
put in the time and effort. In the reserves
side this year we’ve had lots of interaction
with the first team. We go up against the
first team in training and it’s always a
great learning curve to play against
someone better then we’ve had those
first-team lads playing in our side and
passing on their advice. It just shows how
much rugby talent there is in Leigh.
ML- You’re highly regarded at Leigh.
What are your own ambitions as a
player?
MP - I’d love to go and play Super League
one day. It’s all a case of taking your
chance when it comes. It’s my dream.
T H E C ENT UR ION
7
Leigh Centurions would like
to thank all the sponsors
who have supported the
playing and coaching staff
on this special occasion by
taking out individual
sponsorship for tonight’s
Grand Final.
Leigh Centurions Reserves
Season 2014
League Games Only
SIMON
PAUL
ANDERSON (#1160) FINNIGAN (#1371)
Reserves Team
Head Coach
Paul Anderson is sponsored
by AB Sundecks.
Reserves Team
Assistant Coach
Simon Finnigan is sponsored
by AB Sundecks.
STEVE
MAYO
Assistant
STEVE
MADEN (#1213)
Assistant
Steve Mayo is sponsored
by AB Sundecks.
Steve Maden is sponsored
by Ask Platt Office
Supplies.
Leigh Centurions Reserves Coach Paul Anderson gives
a run down on his squad for the Final:
COREY LEE
(DOB 0/9/1993)
TYLER SPENCE
(DOB 20/6/1995)
EZE HARPER
(DOB 7/12/1994)
SAM BAGGALEY
(DOB 6/10/1995)
A St Helens lad who played for Thatto
Heath and Saints Under-19s, Corey is all
about pace off the back of plays. He’s
quick, smart and a typical good fullback.
Corey Lee is sponsored by Solar King
Windows.
A Wigan St Pats product, Tyler came to us in
the Under-18s and has been with us a few
years now. He’s only small but he takes his
chances really well and has played a big
part in the team. Tyler Spence is sponsored
by Ask Platt Office Supplies.
Eze is from Eccles but had a spell at
Widnes. He’s had a great year for us having
joined us halfway through last season. He’s
got pace, good defence, good hands,
everything you want. Eze Harper is
sponsored by Taylor Drilling Services Ltd.
A former Wigan Under-19s player, Sam is
very solid in defence and had got pace,
footwork and great hands. He can play
centre or wing to equal effect. Sam
Baggaley is sponsored by Simon Knox
(#1194).
JOSH SWIFT
(DOB 23/11/1995)
CAMERON ROBINSON
(DOB 8/9/1995)
MATT PENDLEBURY
(DOB 28/9/1993)
JOSH WARD
(DOB 16/6/1995) (#1364)
Cameron is of good rugby stock as his
father Jason was a fantastic player. He
has a rugby union background with Sale
and played for Lancashire Under-19s. He
was recommended by our former player
Andy Grundy (#1147). Cameron
Robinson is sponsored by Preston Audi.
Matty’s been with us since the 18s and we really
missed him when he was out with a shoulder
injury. He’s our six and currently captain and
guides us around the field. He’s a tremendous
player. His dad Gary (#1027) played for Leigh and
is a stalwart of the amateur game and his uncle
John (#1041) was of course a top professional
player. Matt Pendlebury is sponsored by both Matt
Parkinson and Lewis Cozens.
Josh came through the Under-18s and
became one of the youngest players ever
to play for Leigh against Avignon just
after his 17th birthday two years ago. He’s
a fantastic goal-kicker, up there with the
best and a great organiser and talker on
the pitch. Josh Ward is sponsored by Leigh
CPA.
Josh came from Blackbrook this year
originally as a centre, but he’s taken
his chance on the wing. He’s a good
talker and has very good defence.
Josh Swift is sponsored by Preston
Audi.
8
ELLIOT LIKU
(DOB 21/4/1996)
LUKE WARBURTON
(DOB 4/8/1994)
Elliot’s dad Tau (#1073) made his Leigh debut
20 years ago and is one of only three overseas
players to make 100 appearances for the club.
Elliot has a union background and played with
Matt Wilkinson at Sale. He’s been fantastic
since he joined us and has impressed with his
attitude and the way he trains. Elliot Liku is
sponsored by both Moira Griffiths (Impact
Insurance) and Sam Barlow (#1387).
Luke is the ultimate ‘Mr Steady Eddie’ and
always first on the team-sheet. He’s a
Miners lad who had a spell at Warrington.
He can play centre, six, fullback or back
row, no problem.
SAM PEET
(DOB 21/2/1994)
JAMIE TRACEY
(DOB 22/5/1994)
Sam’s another local lad with a union
background and we’ve been knocking off
the rough edges. He runs good lines, has a
strong defence and is a really aggressive,
explosive player.
Sam Peet is sponsored by Evans Halshaw.
CALLUM WATSON
(DOB 22/12/1996)
Chris has already had his first-team
opportunities this year and is going fulltime in December. He impressed us last
year playing against us for Salford and it
was a no-brainer to sign him when they
released him. He can play centre or back
row and has good footwork, he’s also a
good talker and great trainer. Chris
Hankinson is sponsored by GH Training Ltd.
Callum’s a Liverpool lad who was
recommended to us by Kevin Anderton.
He was playing for Halton Hornets open
age side at only 17. He’s a prop who is
learning the game with us. He’s a long way
from the finished article but a great
prospect. Callum Watson is sponsored by
Ask Platt Office Supplies.
JOSH ADUDWUMMA
(DOB 27/10/1994)
LEWIS FOSTER
(DOB 21/12/1993) (#1391)
CHRIS ROWE
(DOB 8/2/1994) (#1366)
FRANKIE HALTON
(DOB 19/6/1996)
JACK HOLMES
(DOB 15/1/1994)
An ex-Miners lad though he also has a
rugby union background with Sale and
rep teams. He played at ten or outside
centre at union but I see him as a nine in
League. He’s only played a few games but
has really taken his chance.
Matt Wilkinson is sponsored by Park
Leisure.
I’m hoping Lewis will be back after injury
for the final. He was going great for us
and got a first team opportunity which he
deserved. He played for Thatto Heath and
Saints Academy and has been brilliant for
us. Lewis is great around the ruck and
adept at kicking 40-20s with great
defence. He’s a classic old school nine.
Lewis Foster is sponsored by Darren Lilly.
Chris made his first team debut against
Avignon two years ago and has been in
the first team squad since while also
playing on loan at Barrow. He’s one of the
first names in the 17 and does everything
you’d want as a coach. He’s a really intense
player with good defence and aggression
and good pace. Chris Rowe is sponsored
by Little Gems Childminding.
Frankie is one for the future, a young
prop forward who reminds me of Chris
Hill (#1252) at the same age. He’s got a
lot of growing to do still and needs a big
off season but he’s got great potential.
He’s a Miners lad who had a scholarship
at Warrington. Frankie Halton is
sponsored by Park Leisure.
Jack’s a Leigh lad who joined us after
being at Salford and Halifax. He played
fullback previously but we tried him at
nine and he’s been a revelation with his
defence and play at dummy half.
www.leighcenturions.com
Jamie is a former BARLA youth international
who played for Thatto Heath and Saints Under16s. He’s been phenomenal this year and has
everything you’d want in a second rower- he’s
big and strong with pace and a good defence.
On top of that he’s a good trainer. I’m
delighted he’s been awarded a full-time
contract. Jamie Tracey is sponsored by Paul
Rowley (#1052) and Neil Jukes (#1084).
CHRIS HANKINSON
(DOB 30/11/1993) (#1390)
MATT WILKINSON
(DOB 13/6/1996)
THE CE NTURION
Luke Warburton is sponsored by Laura
Collier.
Jack Holmes is sponsored by Mike Latham.
Josh has been playing at Leigh East and
had a spell at Warrington. He’s quick and
strong and another who has a lot to learn
about the game but is a great prospect.
Josh Adudwumma is sponsored by Taylor
Drilling Services Ltd.
www.leighlife.com
Jamie Acton
Josh Adudwumma
Brad Ashurst
Martin Aspinwall
Sam Baggaley
Anthony Bate
Craig Briscoe
Alex Brown
Michael Dentgate
Ryan Duffy
Lewis Foster
Matt Gardner
Mick Govin
Kurt Haggerty
Frankie Halton
Chris Hankinson
Eze Harper
Jack Holmes
Corey Lee
Elliot Liku
Stuart Littler
Steve Maden
Alex McPollin
Declan Monks
Oliver Murray
Michael Ostick
Sam Peet
Matthew Pendlebury
Sean Penkywicz
Cameron Pitman
Jonathan Pownall
Cameron Robinson
Chris Rowe
Mike Scrivens
Adam Simm
Tyler Spence
Tom Spencer
Josh Swift
Leon Tatlock
Andy Thornley
Jamie Tracey
Jonny Walker
Luke Warburton
Josh Ward
Callum Watson
Matthew Wilkinson
Total
A
3
5
2
4
15
9
2
4
2
6
12
1
2
1
3
13
12
9
13
3
3
3
0
0
1
6
14
9
1
7
11
4
7
4
2
4
2
8
4
2
14
6
5
19
1
2
260
S
1
1
5
0
0
1
0
0
0
2
0
0
0
0
10
1
1
3
0
12
0
0
2
1
0
1
2
0
0
1
0
0
5
0
3
1
0
1
5
1
0
0
13
0
3
4
80
T
G
1
0
0
0
4
0
0
0
12
0
10
0
1
0
9
0
0
0
4
0
10
2
0
0
0
0
0
6
5
0
11
0
12
0
8
0
8
0
4
0
3
0
2
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
8
0
2
12
0
0
6
0
11
0
2
0
5
0
1
0
2
0
9
0
0
0
7
0
3
0
4
0
11
0
2
0
3
1
12 134
0
0
4
0
197 155
TH E CENTURION
DG
P
0
4
0
0
0
16
0
0
0
48
0
40
0
4
0
36
0
0
0
16
0
44
0
0
0
0
0
12
0
20
0
44
0
48
0
32
0
32
0
16
0
12
0
8
0
0
0
0
0
4
0
0
0
32
0
32
0
0
0
24
0
44
0
8
0
20
0
4
0
8
0
36
0
0
0
28
0
12
0
16
0
44
0
8
0
14
1
317
0
0
0
16
1 1099
9
ELLIOT LIKU
F
or Leigh fans of a certain vintage seeing Elliot Liku stepping out
in the Cherry and White hoops brought back happy memories.
Dad Tau came over from Tonga 20 years ago,
following in the footsteps of fellow countryman
Lee Hansen, another big favourite of the Hilton
Park faithful.
Hamoni Tuavoa and Jimmy Veikoso later continued Leigh’s
Tongan connection and Hansen, Liku and Veikoso all
represented their country in the World Cup.
Tau became one of only three players from overseas to
make over one hundred appearances for Leigh-Australians
Mick Bolewski, a member of the first Kangaroos and
Adam Bristow being the others. What people find
surprising is that he stayed so long, especially considering
the first Englishman he met at the airport was Allan
Rowley. The second one, by the way, was me.
Tau made Leigh his home, married a Leigh girl and twenty
years on from making his Leigh debut after signing from
Mau Saints son Elliot, a born and bred Leyther is looking
forward to playing in the Grand Final.
Elliot has impressed in the Reserves side this season and
may have finally resolved his dilemma whether to play
union or league.
After first playing rugby at the age of five when Dad took
him along to Leigh East and said “give it a go” Elliot leant
originally towards union. “I was never a big fan of rugby at
first,” Elliot says, “but something just clicked. My mum’s
family was based around the rugby union club in
Pennington and from the age of 11 I started playing
there.”
Elliot developed sufficiently to earn a scholarship at Sale
and represented Lancashire from Under14s to Under 18s,
mostly playing at no8 but occasionally in the centres.
“While at Sale I played against some of the big clubs,
Northampton, Leeds and Leicester but then at the age of
16 I was told they were going to release me,” he recalls.
Ironically the man who delivered the bad news was exLeigh coach Darren Abram, who had moved to Sale
working alongside former Wigan junior coach Ray
Unsworth.
“It was gutting at first but later I realised I’d been lucky to
have had three years there and had a good grounding,”
Elliot recalls.
A month or so after being released a chance meeting with
Paul Rowley set up Elliot’s return to League. “Paul got me
playing for the Under 16s and I moved onto the Under 18s
10
THE CEN TU RION
www.leighcenturions.com
www.leighlife.com
the year later,” he explains. “As the youngest in that group
coach Stu Littler said I could have a year out if I wanted
and I went back to union, even going onto captain
Lancashire Under 17s. But then I went back to Leigh and
haven’t looked back.”
With the Tongans based in the area during the last World
Cup Elliot learnt more about his dad’s career. “It was
amazing following the Tongans around, that was massive
for our family,” he says. “I remember going to Wigan Town
Hall for a reception to the Tongan team and hearing about
my dad and Lee Hansen coming over to play for Leigh.
Later that evening Brent Kite and Fuifui Moimoi spent ages
talking to me, like I was their next door neighbour. It was
incredible.
“Just before the Tongans went back Paul Anderson invited
me to trial with the Under 20s and I’ve never looked back.
I’ve loved every minute of this season and have already
signed on for next year. Playing rugby is all I’ve ever
wanted to do and my ambition has always been to earn a
full-time professional contract.”
With the best will in the world dad Tau couldn’t be
described as the world’s best trainer but young Elliot earns
big wraps in that department from the coaching staff. “I’ve
heard all the tales about my dad and Timmy Street,” Elliot
laughs. “But I’m proud he had such a good career. He’s
been there and done it, at Leigh and later at Swinton and
Barrow where he was very popular. Dad’s always there to
come and help me when needed and tells me where I need
to improve my game.
“It’s been weird this season, following in my dad’s
footsteps, playing on some of the grounds he played on.
And that game at Leigh RU was strange, playing on a field
I knew so well but with Rugby League markings.”
Elliot has enrolled on a degree course and Wigan and
Leigh College and coaches Leigh Miners Under 14s in his
spare time. But all his recent focus has been on the Grand
Final.
“Paul Anderson set our goal at the start of the season to
play at home in the Grand Final,” Elliot explains. “As a
player you don’t get many chances to play in a final and to
lose only one game all season in the league and score over
one thousand points has meant it’s been a great season so
far. But we know that our whole season depends on what
happens in the final. We’ve been counting down the days
and training hard. We can’t wait.”
THE CENTURION
11
SIMON FINNIGAN
M
ike Latham spoke to Assistant Coach Simon Finnigan about his experiences
with the Reserves side this season, his first since retiring as a player.
ML- Your final pro game was in a World Cup game for Ireland
against Australia. Is there no better way to bow out?
SF - I didn’t plan it that way but looking back I suppose it was a good way
to finish, if there is a good way. In an ideal world I’d have played one more
year. I had my squad number (21) but when I came back from the World
Cup my body was in pieces. It was time to go. I spoke to Paul (Rowley) about
opportunities on the coaching side of things and it went from there.
ML- Your last season as a player was memorable as you helped
Leigh win the Northern Rail Cup as well as playing in the World
Cup.
SF - The World Cup was tough results-wise but playing against Australia
was something special. I chased the dream of playing in a final the whole of
my career and finally achieved that with Leigh against Sheffield. That was a
special day and a dream come true.
ML- Looking ahead to this evening’s Grand Final, a lot of players
don’t get too many opportunities to play in a final, do they?
SF - I certainly didn’t and I’ll be telling the players to make sure they enjoy
the game and savour the whole occasion, the build-up, the training the
week before, the special things like playing at LSV, even featuring in a
programme. They’re all special things that combine to make it a big
experience, especially playing under the lights at LSV. Some players, like the
Leeds boys, get to play in a lot of finals and even if you lose it’s better than
not playing in one at all. Last year’s final went by really quickly, it was over in
a flash.
ML- What will you telling the players in the lead-up to the game?
SF - I’ll be telling them just to view it as a big, positive experience, the lights,
the crowd, the occasion. There’s no need to be nervous, just to enjoy it all,
soak it all up. They’ll have a bond with their team-mates and their families
will be proud of them. It’s an exciting time. It’s why you play Rugby League.
ML- How hard is it to make the transition from player to coach?
SF - It’s difficult at times and it will be difficult on Friday night, not just for
me but for Ando, Juksey and Rowls. We’ve all played the game, all
experienced the emotions you get building up for a game. I know that deep
down we’ll all be wishing we were still out there playing. It is hard, but I’m
very fortunate that I’ve had the opportunity to stay in the game and I’m very
grateful for that. Being directly involved in the Reserves this year with Ando
and Steve Mayo has been awesome and Mado (Steve Maden) has also
made a huge contribution. That’s really helped me with the transition from
stopping playing.
ML- Can you see why some former players get disillusioned with
the game?
SF - I can, and it’s not only those players who drop out, but those who are
still in the game. Player welfare is a massive issue in Rugby League and from
my own experience though I made the right decision to retire I still miss the
game awfully. That’s why campaigns such as State of Mind are so importantit’s huge- I can’t speak more highly of it. When you start playing the game
early lots of issues can build up with players. It’s a very regimented lifestyle
being a professional Rugby League player and mental health issues need to
be taught and talked through at a young age. Lots of young players are
probably not aware that issues may be building up that may take them to a
bad place and it’s important to look out for the signs, act upon them and be
proactive.
ML- You’ve enjoyed your involvement this year though haven’t
you?
SF - It’s been tremendous. Just talking about the Reserves team we’ve come
a long way this year and played some great rugby. It’s huge credit to the
players that they have lost only one league game and they deserve all the
credit for that. It’s been a team effort and I could name eight to ten players
who have been outstanding all year.
ML- Realistically not everyone in tonight’s team is going to make
it into a first team place with Leigh, but it’s still a big occasion in
its own right isn’t it?
SF - It’s disappointing that down the line not all players make it. I’m 33 now
but I look back to when I was 19 or 20 and you never forget footy stories,
playing with your mates, building friendships that last a lifetime. I’d like to
think that 30 years from now these lads will look back on this occasion,
playing at LSV in a Grand Final under floodlights, playing with their mates,
playing in front of their friends and families and remember the happy times,
especially if we go out and win it this evening.
Q&A
Leigh
Centurions
JOSH WARD
Name
Date of Birth
Place of Birth
Height
Weight
Chest size
Waist size
Boot size
Eye colour
Josh Ward
16 June 1995
Billinge
5ft 9 (I think)
12 stone
massive
32/34
8 or 9
Brown
Josh Ward kicking at Golborne
My Best Characteristic
Funny and I’m a 10
Three words to describe
yourself: lazy, moany, messy
My Bad Habits: biting my
finger nails. Mum hates it
My Phobias: spider and
recently dead pigeons
My Superstitions:
don’t have any
Who I look up to: not my dad
he’s about three foot.. But my
grandparents
My Sporting Hero
Andrew Johns
My Best Event at
London 2012 would have
been:
Walking race
Last boots I bought: Nike
vapours
Sport I like to watch: Footy,
cricket and ice hockey at
moment
Famous person I would most
like to have dinner with and
why:
Kevin Hart. Wouldn’t have to
open my mouth
Famous person I would hate to
be stuck in a lift with and why:
Alan Hansen.. Boringggg
My hobbies:
Rugby, Nandos, films
Music I listen to:
Anything but I like house when
I’m out
Last CD I bought:
Goodness knows, Busted I think
A good night out:
Blackpool or Leyth
My motto in life:
Only geet one crack at it
Team-mate I would least like
to have on my quiz team:
Jamie Tracey by a country mile
Worst dressed team-mate:
Cam Pitman. Wears same
horrible trainers everyday
One rule in RL you could
change:
People are not allowed to run at
me
My Rugby League dream team
Simon Finnigan
and Centurions
teammates in the
Northern Rail Cup
celebrations at
The Shay last year
12
THE CE NTURION
www.leighcenturions.com
1. Jarryd Hayne
2. Des Drummond
3. Greg Inglis
4. Mark Gasnier
5. Roger Tuivasa-Sheck
6. Freddy Fittler
www.leighlife.com
7. Andrew Johns
8. Jason Ryles
9. Danny Buderas
10. James Graham
11. Sonny Bill Williams
12. Sam Burgess
13. Paul Gallen
14. Isaac Luke
15. Greg Bird
16. Karmichael Hunt
17. Johnny Woods
THE CENTURION
13
Often Fred is accompanied by his son David who has earned
his reputation as one of the best commentators in Rugby
League. Mike Latham caught up with Fred and asked him
about his memories of the season.
ML- You’ve enjoyed this season haven’t you Fred?
FP- I have, it’s been tremendous. The first team and Reserves team
have both enjoyed successful seasons and played some great rugby.
We’ve got a really good game and occasion to look forward to in the
Reserves Grand Final and hopefully the first-team will follow suit and
crown their season with a Grand Final victory.
ML- What’s been the secret of the Reserves’ success?
FP- Some good coaching and back-up staff, good organisation, some
good players, a happy squad. A few of the players have played
together for some time and have matured as players. A few like
Cameron Pitman, Chris Hankinson and Jamie Tracey have got into the
first-team and earned full-time contracts. That’s the most pleasing
aspect of it all for me, seeing the lads blossom into better players and
getting their opportunities of furthering their careers.
ML- Who’s the stand-out player for the Reserves?
FP- There are so many who have played really well. I rate Brad Ashurst
really highly and it was such a shame he got injured in a cannonball
tackle at York that wrecked his knee. I hope he’ll come back bigger
and stronger next year. I do like watching Matt Pendlebury- he’s a
cracking player, one that really excites me. He a creator, a bit like Ridy
and some of his best work goes under the radar. On top of that he’s a
top class kicker. And Lewis Foster has been a revelation, he’s a
tremendous player and another who got a chance in the first-team,
and deservedly so. That’s the beauty of the set-up here- play well and
you can move up to the first-team. It isn’t a closed shop.
ML- Any down times?
FP- The only one was that defeat against Halifax at Leigh Miners
Rangers Juniors ground. We played poorly that day but that was the
only time.
ML- When the first team players have stepped down they’ve
really inspired the young lads haven’t they?
FP- That is personified by Steve Maden, in my opinion. He’s a true
professional who has travelled with the Reserves, played games, been
12
THE CE NTURION
water boy and always been there to pass on his experience and
knowledge. He played over 200 games for Leigh, he’s been a good
professional for Leigh but he never sulked when he lost his place. He’s
been putting a lot back into the game and that’s been great to see.
ML- Have you enjoyed the long away trips to distant places?
FP- There have been some long trips but it’s been interesting to see so
many different places and on top of that we have taken home games
around the community clubs which has created a lot of interest.
We’ve covered nearly all the games for Leigh Centurions TV and I
know the Centurions fans really appreciate having the opportunity to
watch the games if they’ve not had chance to go. The coaching staff
also have an important use from the games with all the stats and
clips they do.
The coaching set-up at Leigh is very thorough and professional and
things that are carried out at first team level are replicated in the
Reserves. It’s a pleasure to be able to help them.
MATCH SPONSOR
www.leighcenturions.com
Mar
2
30
7
18
19
a
a
h2
a
h5
a
a
h4
h3
h6
h1
a
h1
a
a
h3
h2
a
a
h2
Ven
Sheffield
Halifax
Oldham
Keighley
Sheffield
Featherstone
North East Academy
Midlands Academy
Cumbria Academy
Halifax
Keighley
Sheffield
Featherstone
Midlands Academy
Cumbria Academy
North East Academy
Keighley
Halifax
Oldham
Featherstone
Opponents
h1
h2
h3
h4
h5
h6
8pm
7-30pm
7-30pm
7-30pm
3-45pm
2-30pm
2-30pm
2-30pm
2-30pm
2-30pm
7-30pm
2pm
7-30pm
2-30pm
1-30pm
2-30pm
7-30pm
7-30pm
2-30pm
7-30pm
KO
at Leigh Miners
at Leigh East
at Golborne Parkside
at Leigh RU
at LSV
at Leigh Miners Rangers
Juniors
HOME VENUES
15
24
17
Aug
19
16
5
12
Jul
14
15
28
13
14
21
11
Jun
28
10
12
24
9
3
14
May
8
7
12
5
26
19
4
6
12
3
Apr
26
Feb
1
8
Date
No. Month
20
F
red Parkinson is a fixture at Reserve Team games, filming in all weathers
from all sorts of gantry positions for the match action we enjoy on
Leigh Centurions TV.
W
W
W
W
W
W
W
W
W
L
W
W
W
W
W
W
W
W
W
W
Res
18
12
0
16
16
24
24
10
0
29
10
0
22
10
34
0
6
24
10
12
A
1st
1st
1st
1st
1st
1st
1st
1st
1st
1st
1st
1st
1st
1st
1st
1st
1st
1st
1st
1st
Pos'n
Lee
Lee T
Lee 2T
Lee
Lee
Lee
Lee T
Lee
Lee
Holmes
Lee T
Lee
Lee T
Baggaley
Pownall
Baggaley T
Scrivens T
Scrivens
Scrivens
Scrivens
1
Swift
Swift
Robinson 2T
Pownall T
Pownall T
Swift 2T
Swift
Swift 2T
Swift
Adu Dwumma
Spence 2T
Adu Dwumma
Maden
Adu Dwumma
Adu Dwumma
Adu Dwumma
Brown 4T
Brown
Brown 4T
Brown T
2
Pitman T
Pownall
Pownall T
Harper T
Hankinson
Pitman 2T
Harper
Pitman T
Harper 5T
Swift
Littler T
Littler T
Littler T
Lee 2T
Simm
Harper T
Pitman
Pitman
Baggaley
Hankinson
3
Harper
Harper
Harper T
Baggaley
Harper T
Harper
Baggaley
Baggaley 2T
Baggaley T
Gardner
Tatlock
Hankinson T
Hankinson T
Tatlock T
Baggaley 2T
Pownall T
Baggaley 2T
Baggaley 2T
Pitman T
Maden 2T
4
Robinson
Baggaley T
Swift 3T
Robinson
Baggaley
Baggaley T
Robinson
Simm 2T
Spence 3T
Baggaley
Harper
Harper
Pownall 2T
Pownall 3T
Spence T
Spence 3T
Pownall T
Harper 2T
Pownall
Pownall T
5
Ward 5G
Ward 18G
Foster
Foster
Ward T, 5G
Foster 2T
7
Baggaley
Pendlebury
Pendlebury 2G
Pendlebury 4G
Pendlebury T
Pendlebury
Pendlebury
Pendlebury 6G
Pendlebury
Pendlebury T
Ward T 8G
Ward 3G
Warburton
Walker
Spencer
Spencer
Bate T
Halton
Watson
Acton
Duffy
Ostick
Duffy T
Ostick
Ostick
Aspinwall
Bate
Duffy T
Ashurst
Ashurst
Duffy
Duffy
8
Ward T, 5G, 1DG Walker
Ward 6G
Ward 7G
Ward 2G
Ward T 7G
Ward 9G
Ward T, 6G
Ward 2G
Ward 8G
Ward T, 2G
Foster T 2G
Foster
Ward 2T 9G
Warburton 2T 1G Ward 2T 13G
Warburton
Warburton
Ward 15G
Ward 2T, 4G
Dentgate
Dentgate
6
Leigh Centurions
Sheffield Eagles
Featherstone Rovers
Halifax
Midlands Academy
Cumbria Academy
Keighley Cougars
Oldham
North East Academy
University of Gloucs
P
20
18
19
20
15
14
15
14
15
6
W
19
13
13
10
6
5
5
4
3
0
D
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
L
1
5
6
10
9
9
10
10
12
6
PTS
38
26
26
20
12
10
10
8
6
0
%
95
72
68
50
40
36
33
29
20
0
Championship Under 20s Final League Table
1099 277
27
44
74
48
46
62
44
56
68
16
72
14
62
88
38
116
94
40
46
44
F
10
Aspinwall
Halton T
Liku
Bate 2T
Ostick
Ostick
Acton
Bate T
Walker
Walker T
Walker
Walker T
Tracey T
Liku T
Ostick
Duffy
Briscoe T
Wilkinson Halton
Holmes
Holmes T
Holmes T
Holmes T
Holmes T
Holmes T
Foster
Foster T
Foster T
Holmes T
Wilkinson Aspinwall
Holmes T
Foster T
Foster
Foster 3T
Govin
Govin
Foster T
Penkywicz Acton
9
Hankinson
Maden
Hankinson 5T Rowe
Tracey
Tracey T
Murray T
Tracey
Tracey T
Tatlock
Tracey T
Tracey
Tracey
Tracey
Tracey T
Holmes
Liku
Liku T
McPolin
Simm
Warburton
Liku
Wilkinson
Holmes T
Holmes
Rowe
Rowe
Bate
Bate 2T
Rowe T
Bate T
Tatlock
Swift
Watson
Peet
Warburton
Rowe
Warburton
Adu Dwumma
Tatlock
Tatlock
Hankinson
Monks
Liku
Harper T
Warburton
Tatlock
Warburton
15
Spence
Wilkinson
Watson
Warburton
Warburton T Wilkinson 3T
Warburton
Warburton
Warburton
Warburton Simm
Rowe T
Liku T
Tracey
Hankinson Wilkinson T
Briscoe
Bate
Rowe
Hankinson T Rowe
Tracey T
Pitman
14
Thornley T Warburton
Hankinson T Bate 2T
Tatlock T
Hankinson
Hankinson T Tracey 3T
Hankinson
13
Haggerty 6G Aspinwall
12
Hankinson T Tracey 2T
Peet T
Peet
Pitman T
Peet
Peet
Peet
Peet T
Peet
Peet 2T
Peet
Peet T
Peet
Peet T
Peet T
Peet
Thornley T
11
McPolin
Ashurst T
Ashurst
17
Liku
Liku
Rowe
Liku
Liku
Liku T
Liku
Watson
Warburton
Liku
Liku
Warburton
Halton
Bate T
Ashurst T
Tatlock T
Acton T
Halton T
Halton
Rowe
Halton
Rowe T
Rowe 2T
Halton
Halton T
Halton
Halton T
Halton
Duffy T
Ashurst
Halton T
Ashurst 2T
Thornley 2T Duffy T
Simm
Ostick
Peet T
16
RESERVES RESULTS & FIXTURES 2014
LEIGH CENTURIONS TV
CHAMPIONSHIPS UNDER 20 GRAND FINAL
LEIGH CENTURIONS v
SHEFFIELD EAGLES
Head Coach: Paul Anderson
Head Coach: Sean Berry
LEIGH CENTURIONS
SPONSOR
SHEFFIELD EAGLES
Corey Lee
Solar King Windows
Ross McGinn
Tyler Spence
Ask Platt Office Supplies
Ryan Miller
Eze Harper
Taylor Drilling Services Ltd
Tom Ashton
Sam Baggaley
Simon Knox
Eddie Medforth
Josh Swift
Preston Audi
John Hale
Cameron Robinson
Preston Audi
Callum Butler
Matthew Pendlebury (C)
Matt Parkinson and Lewis Cozens
Cory Aston
Josh Ward
Leigh CPA
Theo Gonzalez-Trique
Matthew Wilkinson
AB SUNDECKS
Greg Burns
Lewis Foster
Darren Lilly
Connor Scott
Chris Rowe
Little Gems Childminding
Alex Palmer
Frankie Halton
Park Leisure
Peter Aspinall
Elliot Liku
Moira Griffiths, Impact Insurance
and Sam Barlow
Joe Batchelor
Luke Warburton
Laura Collier
Sam Peet
Evans Halshaw
Jamie Tracey
Park Leisure,
Paul Rowley and Neil Jukes
Zak Lillywhite
Marcus Stock
Kadeem Williams
Chris Hankinson
GH Training Ltd
Callum Watson
Ask Platt Office Supplies
Jack Holmes
Michael Latham
Josh Adudwumma
Taylor Drilling Services Ltd
Jose Kenga
Coaching staff and assistants:
Paul Anderson
AB Sundecks
Simon Finnigan
AB Sundecks
Steve Mayo
AB Sundecks
Steve Maden
Ask Platt Office Supplies
We are delighted to welcome this evening the
RFL President Mr Andrew Farrow, who will
hand out the Trophy to the winning team and
medals to the players after the match
OFFICIALS
Referee: MR CHRIS CAMPBELL
Touch Judges:
In Goal Judges:
Reserve Touch Judge:
Reserve Referee:
Match Commissioner:
Nick Bennett & Dean Bowmer
Denton Arnold & Craig Smith
Dylan Ward
Brandon Robinson
Tony Brown

Download Report