Centurions
Strengthen Their Squad

Leigh Centurions have strengthened their squad with the addition of Chris Jones on loan from St Helens.

Jones, a 23 year-old centre who represented both Wales and England in Under-19s rugby union; was a member of Sale Sharks victorious European Challenge Cup team earlier this year, and also played 26 games for the Sharks last season. He joined St Helens in June following the completion of his rugby union contract.

"St Helens signed Chris as a long term project." explained Leigh coach Darren Abram "He is very athletic and a tall guy who has good natural core skills in running, and ball handling. He is raw to the game but Daniel Anderson and some of St Helens senior players have given him big wraps for the way that he applies himself in training. He's been with us a week now and we have found that he has bags of enthusiasm and wants to learn."

"We are grateful to Daniel as we have found it difficult to bring players in on-loan this season and he agreed that Jones now needs games and Super League experience under his belt. We have signed Chris for a month, but the deal could be extended to the end of the season if all parties are in agreement."

One player who has definitely played his last game for the Centurions is Dom Feaunati. The big Samoan was released by the Centurions last Thursday after playing just five games for the club.

"Dom has signed a contract to play for London Irish next season and stated that his ambition was represent Samoa in the next Rugby Union World Cup." Said Abram. "He originally approached me for an early release in August but due to his continuing groin and ankle problems plus the fact that he needs to relocate we came to a mutual agreement to release him earlier."

Another player whose season could be over is Neil Turley. The record-breaking fullback has endured a wretched season with injury and may face surgery on troublesome back and groin complaints.

Speaking to the Leigh Journal, Turley commented, "The specialist thinks the groin problem stems from my back complaint. I've having treatment for another week or so to see if there is any improvement but it could be that an operation is the only answer."

The Centurions were still without James King and Rob Smyth for the visit to Huddersfield but Ben Cooper returned following a two game absence. Nick Owen was also drafted in to the initial 20-man squad following a good performance in the centres for the senior academy who defeated Wigan's previously unbeaten youngsters 30-26 last Wednesday.

Thanks to Leigh Centurions News for this great article.