Leigh win at Warrington for the first time in more than 38 years

Warrington Wolves 12 - 34 Leigh Leopards

Leigh Leopards secured a landmark result with their first victory at Warrington in more than 38 years, a win that keeps their push for a home elimination final firmly on track.

Author | Amy W

Stadium | Halliwell Jones Stadium

Adrian Lam’s side were in control from the outset, with first-half tries from Keanan Brand and Matt Davis establishing a 10-0 lead at the break. Leigh continued to dominate after half-time, Brand completing his hat-trick while Umyla Hanley and Bailey Hodgson also crossed as the Leopards swept aside the Wolves.

It marked Leigh’s first triumph away at Warrington since a 17-10 win in April 1987, underlining the significance of the result for the club and its supporters.

Warrington did manage two late consolation tries through Toby King and Josh Thewlis, allowing Stefan Ratchford to sign off his final home appearance with a pair of successful conversions. But this was an afternoon that belonged to Leigh, who showed the sharpness and resolve of a side intent on extending their season deep into the play-offs.

A closer look at what happened

Leigh were quick to assert themselves after being gifted possession on halfway from the kick-off. It did not take long for them to strike, with Keanan Brand diving over in the corner after Umyla Hanley created space at the end of a flowing move.

Warrington’s afternoon worsened when Leon Hayes, making only his second appearance after a 15-month lay-off, was forced off with a suspected broken arm. Handling errors continued to undermine the hosts, and Leigh extended their lead before the interval as Matt Davis pounced on Edwin Ipape’s well-placed kick beneath the posts.

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Jack Hughes thought he had added to the advantage early in the second half but was denied. Soon after, Brand crossed for his second try to leave Adrian Lam’s side firmly in control. Hanley and Bailey Hodgson then touched down to put Leigh 28-0 ahead with less than ten minutes left.

Although Warrington briefly rallied with two tries in quick succession, Brand had the final word, completing his hat-trick to seal a commanding victory.

Best reaction

From those involved

Leopards head coach Adrian Lam told the media: "I was pretty happy with it [the win], but it was a bit stop-start at times. We got out of it what we needed. I am proud of the fact that was the first time we have beaten Warrington at Warrington in the Super League era. We are ticking these boxes, these milestones, as we go along, and it is just reward for all the hard work."

From a fan

Steph Wood, a Leigh fan, told us: “Another good win and good performance. We could still finish the regular season in 3rd place, which would be a remarkable achievement.”