lLEIGH Harriers opened their season their NWC Division Two campaign with a 30-24 defeat by Wigan St Judes.

The game started favourably for the Harriers with a penalty goal from Chris Dootson a Darren Leech try and another Dootson goal.

St Judes replied with a try in the corner after some poor defence by the Leigh side. However, the elusive Stuart Pilkington extended the lead even further after a 50 yard weaving run again Dootson converted. Judes came back with two quick tries to put them in the lead at half-time.

The second half started with the Harriers having to defend against some strong attacking and it wasn't long before the inevitable try came.

Harriers dug deep and Dootson skipped through the Judes defence to score out wide. After some gruelling up the middle forward play Danny Galvin burst over near the posts to give some hope to the Harriers, Dootson converted to set up a thrilling finish but St Judes held out.

On Saturday Harriers are at home against Oldham St Annes KO 2.30pm at Marsh Playing Fields.