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Leigh put Wakefield to the sword

Wakefield’s struggles continue as Leigh romp to a 0-32 win at Belle Vue.

A Josh Charnley double, alongside tries from Gareth O’Brien, Ben Reynolds, Lachlan Lam and Joe Mellor helped condemn Wakefield to a ninth consecutive defeat.

This felt like a big game for both sides. Wakefield were still on the hunt for their first win, and even more importantly points as they have failed to score in half of their matches so far this season. For Leigh, they were looking to get back on track after two straight defeats against rivals Wigan and Salford.

Both teams started brightly, however it was the Leopards that would have the best chances early on.

Slick hands from Zak Hardaker found Tom Briscoe in space out wide, however outstanding defence from Mason Lino and Samisoni Langi denied the former Leeds man a certain try. Briscoe would be back not long after, but his pass to Gareth O’Brien went forward right before the line.

The Leopards would finally take a chance in the 24th minute. The ball found its way to Josh Charnley in space on the left flank, and he linked up with fullback O’Brien for the afternoon’s first try.

They would come back just five minutes later, thanks to a break from Lachlan Lam, and Ben Reynolds crossed near the sticks for Leigh’s second. He converted his own try to make the scores 0-10.

Wakefield did have some good chances, however as has been the tale of their season they were unable to turn these into points.

The first score after the break felt crucial, and it was Leigh who got it. Charnley was again the creator as he broke through the defence and found Lam, who coasted in for the Leopards third try. Reynolds added the extras and Leigh were 16 points to the good.

It was looking ominous for Wakefield at this point and it only got worse from there for Mark Applegarth’s men.

Josh Charnley finally got himself on the scoreboard. Lam’s grubber kick was spilled by Will Dagger and it found its way to Charnley who dived over in the corner with yet another spectacular finish. He added his second try 10 minutes later to cap off a fine individual performance.

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Joe Mellor put the final nail in the coffin as he scored late on to condemn Wakefield to yet another defeat.

For Wakefield, their attacking problems continue. Mark Applegarth’s men have been nilled in five games and have scored less than 50 points in total this season . They now turn their attentions to Wigan, who have already beaten them 60-0 this season.

Leigh’s victory stops the slump, and they now prepare to face a resurgent Leeds side at the Leigh Sports Village in what promises to be a tasty affair.