Sheffield Wednesday swap works wonders for record-breaking Rowley

Leigh Centurions beat Sheffield Eagles 54-12 to claim a club-record 15 consecutive victories on Sunday at Owlerton.

Centurions coach Paul Rowley was proud of his players, and also revealed that Sheffield Wednesday FC played a part in his team’s record-breaking win.

“We leave no stone unturned,” he told Love Rugby League.

“We changed at Sheffield Wednesday’s ground. But it wasn’t a day out. We turned up there focused.

“We arrived here [at Owlerton] focused, and we took that into the game. If anything the conditions inspired us.

“It’s a good challenge. It shows that we’re a focused, professional outfit.

“We’re a close club, and we’re a happy club. We aren’t getting carried away. We will suffer some adversity somewhere along the line, but having good people around is going to make us strong.”

Rowley was also moved by the passionate support his team received from several hundred loud Leythers.

“It’s outstanding,” he said.

“You get the feeling that we’re a big club, and we’re moving forward. Everybody is going forward together. That includes the fans.

“To walk off to such rapturous applause from fans who’ve made a long journey pulls on your heartstrings. It’s quite emotional.

“We’re predominately local players, so it’s a humbling experience and we really appreciate all the support we get.”

Wednesday’s Hillsborough Stadium is five minutes’ drive up the road from Owlerton. The changing facilities at the Eagles’ current home are basic, to say the least, consisting of two portakabins.

Rowley was visibly and verbally upset at the state of the changing facilities when with press after the game.

The game was also marked by the emergency medical treatment of a Leigh fan in the stands. Play was held up for several minutes while the spectator, who was eventually taken away safely in an ambulance, was treated.

Rowley’s players did not let the unforeseen interval affect them, though, and the coach admitted to a strong feeling of pride in their efforts.

“I’ve been proud since minute one of pre-season,” he said.

“We did our work in pre-season, and we’ve been in more uncomfortable situations than a portakabin dressing room.

“So we weren’t fazed by any of that.

“I’m proud to be part of history as well. It’s not to be underestimated. It’s fantastic.”