Walney Central 6 Leigh Miners 16

IMPRESSIVE all-round rugby saw Leigh Miners chalk up a rare victory at Walney.

It was the home side's first outing of the season and they lacked cohesion and sharpness at times. The Miners had several notable absentees yet still dominated all departments of the game.

Half-backs Mick Warburton and Sean Phoenix constantly probed for the openings and there was some impressive defence from Steve Flannery, Tommy Goulding and Chris Flynn as well as an impressive first outing from Aussie recruit from Illawarra, Craig Wilson.

The Miners were impressive right across the park with 19-year-old winger Craig Graham catching the eye with the two opening tries. His first came when opposite number Paul Managh spilled Warburton's testing kick and the youngster pounced to score. The second came after a great break down the centre from Mark Hudspith who found the winger with an inside pass.

Hudspith added the goal points and the Miners were in control at 10-0 at half time.

Walney tried hard to get themselves back in the game and they went close several times. But when the Miners played a solid set of six, Warburton's kick behind the defensive line was pounced on by Jamie Pennington.

The try and Hudspith's goal virtually settled it even though Walney gave themselves an outside chance when Barker went over for a converted try 10 minutes from time.