POOR attendances for their three home Engage Super League fixtures have forced Leigh Centurions to put a block on any more immediate new signings.

Leigh officials were particularly dismayed at a gate of just 4,239 for the Hilton Park clash with last season's Grand Final losers, Bradford Bulls. That, coupled with gates of just over 4,000 for previous games against Huddersfield and Salford, have forced the club into a financial re-think.

The game attracted just 3,000 Leigh supporters with the Bulls being followed by 1,200 fans. Leigh had bugeted for a crowd of 6,000.

Leigh had wanted to dip into the transfer market again but have decided to put any possible moves on hold until the gates improve.

"We are something like £40,000 down already on projected income through the gates," said executive director Derek Beaumont. "It's obvious we can't carry on down that road and we won't spend money we haven't got.

"Our crowds have been a big disappointment. They are little better than when we were playing the top teams in National League One.

"I know the fans will probably return when results improve on the pitch but we are not in a position to sign new players until the gates do improve. It's really down to the public of Leigh to get behind the team and show they want a Super League side in the town."

Fans will be allowed to pay on the turnstile, for the Asda End only, for the home clash with London Broncos on Easter Monday.

"We've said from day one that we would be flexible with game days and ticketing arrangements," added Mr Beaumont. "We are trying to find a pattern that suits the majority."