Adrian Lam labels Leigh ‘the best group’ he’s been involved with
Leigh Centurions head coach Adrian Lam says his current team are ‘probably the best group’ he’s been involved with following their 1895 Cup triumph.
The former Wigan head coach guided the Centurions to their first 1895 Cup glory on Saturday at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
Lam’s side claimed a 30-16 victory over Championship rivals Featherstone in only the third-ever 1895 Cup final.
With only five players on contract from the 2021 season, Lam had the challenge of re-building a strong side to compete for promotion back to Super League.
Recent addition Blake Ferguson scored his fifth Leigh try on Saturday, having scored four on his debut.
Krisnan Inu, Ben Reynolds, Edwin Ipape and Sam Stone also scoring on the day. Papua New Guinea international Ipape also winning the Ray French man of the match award.
Adrian Lam labels Leigh ‘best’ group he’s been involved with
“I’m pleased for the team and the boys,” Lam said.
“At the end of last year, we only had five players that we kept going into the season.
“It was always going to be a challenge to build a squad to 26 where we are now. And more importantly get cohesion and perform together as a group.
“In my heart, they’re probably the best group I’ve been involved with in my life.
“That’s saying something because I’ve been around for a long time, but I genuinely mean that. I think they’re a good bunch of boys.”
Lam dedicates win to owner Derek Beaumont
Following the victory, Lam also dedicated the win to club owner Derek Beaumont.
“He’s certainly passionate,” said the former player. “I think that’s the key word to use in this situation.
“Rugby league at times is doing it tough in the north west of the UK. We’ve got people like him supporting clubs like Leigh, the game will always be alive.
“I’m sure the club, the fans and the players want to thank him for everything he’s done for the sport.
“I think he was more excited about the win than the players. It is his competition as a sponsor as a business. I think that was really special.”
READ MORE: Featherstone Rovers double injury blow sees them dip into loan market
PLAY: Our free Fantasy Rugby League competition is back for 2022
