Leigh wait on dual-reg stars

Centurions are waiting for news on whether their dual-contracted players will join them for this week’s mouth-watering Co-operative Championship clash with Halifax.

Last week Lee Mitchell and Jake Emmitt played for Warrington and St Helens respectively but they could return to Leigh if they are not needed on Sunday.

Matty Blythe is expected to feature, despite picking up a minor knock last week, but Robbie Paul will not play after being ruled out for up to eight weeks with a groin injury.

Leigh assistant coach Paul Rowley said: “Last Sunday at Whitehaven we had our third game in a week. It was a tough time and it required tough people. We ground out a win.

“We dropped off in a couple of arrears but grit, determination and team spirit pulled us through.”

He added: “This encounter with Halifax should be an exciting game. If you look at the form then people might say we’ve been a little bit off and it’s the same with them – they leaked 30 odd points at Keighley.

“It’s two teams with good attacking records so it should be entertaining, very open and a lot faster than last week.”

Stanley Gene (knee) and Makali Aizue (hamstring) could come back into contention for Halifax.

Fax coach Matt Calland is demanding a big improvement from last week’s victory at Keighley. He said: “We lacked urgency and enthusiasm. We need a major step up against Leigh.”