We must thank Leigh for stepping into the breach late in the day after our original opponents Stoneclough pulled out of the game on Monday to be replaced by Hollinwood. They too withdrew late on Wednesday night paving the way for Leigh, who had also been let down to step in.

Leigh play in the 1st Division of the Manchester League where they came sixth last season. After being relegated from the premier Division the previous season Leigh initially struggled again but a strong second half to the campaign, including collecting 16 points from their last six games, lifted them up the table.

They will be keen to continue that progress this season under new manager Gordy Walker who has recruited extensively with a promotion bid in mind. In pre-season thus far they have drawn 3-3 with Hindley Town and lost 4-2 to Curzon Ashton Reserves.