IAN MILLWARD could still help plot Widnes' exit from the Challenge Cup.

The Leigh coach will help his old mate, Leeds coach Graham Murray, as the Yorkshire giants prepare for a quarter-final tie at Widnes.

Murray admits to knowing little about the side, but will first set his mind to the Super League opener at Gateshead before getting down to some homework on his cup opponents.

Aussie Millward spent three years alongside Murray on the Illawarra coaching staff.

"I will be in touch with my mate in the week to get the run-down on Widnes," said Murray.

LEIGH and Widnes share a long history in the Challenge Cup.

Prior to Sunday's match they had faced each other on 10 occasions, Leigh winning three and drawing three.

They first met in the 3rd round of 1898, Widnes winning 22-3 after a 3-3 draw.

Then came a series of 1st round meetings, Widnes winning 15-3 (1913), 3-0 (1920) and 14-2 in a second replay at St Helens in 1964 after drawing 2-2 at Hilton Park and 11-11 at Naughton Park.

Leigh scored a 13-3 1st round away win in 1962 plus two 2nd round wins in 70s, 14-11 at Naughton Park in the Wembley year of 1971 and an 11-7 home triumph in 1974.

But, sadly, records counted for nought on Sunday.

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