LEIGH East almost snatched victory at Castleford Lock Lane after they had trailed 20-6 at half time.
A poor first half cost East dearly as they began life under new coach Jimmy Taylor with a 23-20 defeat.
Lock Lane touched down twice in the opening 10 minutes and although East hit back with a smartly taken six-pointer from Danny Kilshaw, the Leigh side found themselves 20-6 down after conceding a try and a couple of goals.
Faced with a mouintain to climb, East came out fighting in the second half and within two minutes of the re-start Gary Molyneux had forced his way over for an unconverted try.
East tightened their defence and didn't concede a try after half time but Lock Lane did manage a crucial penalty and field goal.
When second rower Ian Lewis crashed in for a 65th minute try it set up a thrilling finish. Winger John Woods went in at the corner with eight minutes left but Lock Lane held on to their three point advantage.
East are at home to defending Premier Division champions West Hull on Saturday.
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