Redhill 24

Leigh Miners Rangers 31 LEIGH Miners made it two wins from two in 2001 as the edged out Redhill in a thrilling tussle.

Inspired by stand-off Mick Warburton and loose forward Chris Flynn, the Miners wrapped up their victory late on after they trailed 24-13.

The Miners took the lead after 19 minutes when props Danny Flannery and Lewis Waterworth made the initial breakthrough, Steve Flannery and Johnny Light carried the move forward and centre Mark Sarsfield produced a jinking run for the first try. Mark Hudspith goaled for 6-0.

Despite dominating the game the Miners could not finish off their chances. Redhill hammered away at the Miners line but when a move broke down full-back Matt Irwin collected and raced 90 metres for a try under the posts. Hudspith added the extras.

Ex-Castleford prop Martin Ketteridge continued to inspire Redhill and two quick converted tries had the game all-square at 12-12.

Redhill edged in front with a penalty before Hudspith pegged it back to 13-14 with a field goal.

But Leigh's brittle defence cost them dear as two more tries and a goal gave Redhill a 24-13 lead.

Some tactical switches and the introduction of Neil McCulloch and Alan Coleman swung the match back the Miners' way. Flynn broke the defence again and sent Steve Flannery striding majestically for another try goaled by Hudspith.

With 20 minutes left sub Lee Lomax scored from 60 metres and Hudspith added a penalty. With just 10 minutes left Flynn, Hudspith and Coleman all combined to get hooker Roy Stott under the posts to clinch victory.

Tomorrow they take on Saddleworth at Twist Lane, kick off 2.30pm.