Duffy missing for cup winners

Leigh get back to their Co-operative Championship campaign without John Duffy after the hooker sustained an injury in last week’s Northern Rail Cup final.

Dean McGilvray is also doubtful, but Leigh are hopeful that dual-registered pair Rhys Evans and Tyrone McCarthy could be available.

Leigh assistant coach Paul Rowley said: “Sheffield are tough opponents at the best of times, and they’ll have had really good preparation for this game. They’ll be up for it.

“They’ve definitely got stronger as the season’s gone on. They’ve obviously got some goals and want to be heavily involved in the play-offs.”

He added: “Their overseas players are their particular danger-men, but their pack is the cornerstone of anything they do.”

Rowley insists that there will be no hangover from last week’s Northern Rail Cup win.

“We’ve enjoyed last week, but that’s gone now and we’ve got our own goals and aspirations for the rest of the season. We still want to finish first, so it’s vitally important we don’t drop any more points.”

Sheffield coach Mark Aston is boosted by the possible returns of three players.

Pat Smith and Dan Scott have both returned from the successful Great Britain Students tour of Australia, while Dane McDonald is close to full fitness.