Championship Preview – Leigh Centurions v Sheffield Eagles

Leigh Centurions coach Paul Rowley has suffered a double blow ahead of Friday’s Kingstone Press Championship clash with Sheffield Eagles.

Experienced forward Martin Aspinwall has been rueld out with a broken toe, while Wigan Warriors have recalled Tom Spencer.

Rowley said: “We’ll be OK, but obviously they’re two quality players and I’d be lying if I said they won’t be missed. However, we’ve got plenty of strong cover.”

Leigh lost at home to Sheffield in last year’s play-offs, but Rowley insists Friday night’s fixture is not a revenge mission.

“On the day they were worthy winners. They deserve the ‘champions’ tag they carry with them this season, and with that tag comes pressure and expectation. It’s our job to try to knock them off.”

Eagles captain Jack Howieson is expected to return to action after missing last week’s 46-14 win over York City Knights with a knee strain. Alex Szostak is also likely to be involved, but Scott Turner will not be risked.