Mike Eccles: Leigh programme notes

Mike Eccles: Leigh programme notes

A warm welcome back to New Plough Lane. Last time out here, I was incredibly frustrated yet proud of how well we competed against Warrington. We should have given ourselves a genuine chance of winning that game; had we taken our chances and limited what we call ‘let offs’, we could have caused an almighty upset. However, we coughed up possession cheaply at times and gave away crucial penalties to deflate the pressure we had created on Warrington. Last weekend against Hull, we took our opportunities well but still came up with way too many ‘let offs’ for our liking. This weekend, we will be looking to take the chances we create, whilst limiting the number of let-offs we give away to bring about a more rounded and complete performance.

Regarding the Magic Weekend, I’d like to thank you once again for your incredible support. The costs involved for you to travel up and down the country every week are phenomenal. So to finally get a win for you on the road and reward your loyalty with the feel good emotion of winning was incredibly satisfying. On behalf of the team, thank you, what a great weekend we all had together. 

Leigh this weekend will pose an almighty challenge. I believe Leigh have all areas covered like the top four teams in the competition. They have a very skilful spine, and a big, aggressive pack led by Tom Amone, John Asiata and Edwin Ipape. Lachlan Lam is certainly the player to watch though. Lams kicking game, run threat and vision are as good as anything in the competition- we will have to be on red alert every time he touches the ball today. 

As for team selection, we have somehow fielded a very similar 17 to last week. We have had a lot of bumps and bruises this week and at one point looked as if we would be forced into making as many as five changes. However, as I write this, the only change in the team is Emmanuel Waine who misses out with a hamstring strain. On the injury front, it is unlikely we will see the following players in 2024 - Alex Walker (back), Jordan Williams (Knee) and Matt Davies (Shoulder). Dean Parata sustained another head knock so will require a specialist’s appointment to sign him back to play. Jack Hughes is also following return to train / play protocols following a head knock. James Meadows is making excellent progress with a knee injury and may return before the season is out. 

Enjoy the game today in our penultimate home game of the season. 

Mike