Leigh East 32, East Leeds 16: AFTER a lucky draw and a disappointing defeat, Leigh East made a welcome return to winning ways against National Conference Premier Division newcomers East Leeds.

But it was not an easy victory. The two sides were neck and neck until midway through the second half when substitute Martin Meadows scored with his first touch to finally turn the game Leigh's way.

East Leeds' cause had not been helped by the dismissal of scrum-half Philip Hall, sent off after 30 minutes for kicking out at Ian Lewis. But what really did cost the visitors was the fact they had no-one capable of containing John Gunning whose leadership and brilliant tactical sense again put him head and shoulders above the rest.

Gunning made a formidable partnership with scrum-half Danny Kilshaw and these two bossed the show.

But there was also a tremendous effort in the forwards from man of the match John Taylor, Dave Ellison and Dave Radley. Mick Redford and Simon Warhurst were impressive in the backs.

The visitors opened the scoring after only four minutes when full-back Steve Parnell sliced through for a try and goal but East levelled eight minutes later when John Woods gathered Kilshaw's kick to score, Radley adding the goal.

Radley added a penalty but east Leeds were back in front when missed tackles left an easy passage for Scarisbrick to score, Parnell goaling. Penalties from Parnell and Radley took the half time score to 14-10.

Gunning put East back level, crossing from a good ball by Whiteside. Further penalties from Parnell and Radley made it 16-16 but Meadows' try tipped the scales Leigh's way. Gregson scored after a great break from Whiteside and Woods added a second. Radley added both goals to seal the victory.