Adrian Lam hints at playing understrength team against Leeds Rhinos ahead of Challenge Cup Final

Leigh Leopards were brought back down to earth after their Challenge Cup heroics against St Helens last week, losing 44-18 to neighbours Wigan Warriors at the DW Stadium.

It was a tough afternoon for the Leopards who were well in the contest in the first half, only for scores from Toby King and Bevan French putting Wigan up 16-6 at the break.

Leigh never recovered from that and were blown away in the second period, eventually losing 44-18 as the Warriors jumped above them in the Super League table.

Reflecting on the game afterwards, speaking to Channel 4’s Helen Skelton in his post-match interview, Leigh boss Adrian Lam admitted that the emotions of last week’s Challenge Cup semi-final win over Saints perhaps influenced his side’s display.

“Yeah it was one of them where the couple of scores before half-time blew the score out a bit. With the highs of last week there was always a danger coming here today that could happen,” said Lam.

He continued: “This is always a difficult place to come though and I thought Wigan were excellent.”

Attentions now turn to next week when Lam and Leigh will look to bounce back but also aboid any injuries or suspensions a week before they take on Hull KR at Wembley Stadium.

Touching on their game against the Rhinos, Lam admitted that he will consider making changes to his team for the clash at Headingley next Sunday afternoon.

“We have picked up a few knocks today so we are just going to take it day by day over the next couple of weeks because there is a lot to think about,” added Lam.

“Whether we play a full-strength team or rest a few faces next week is something we’ll have to consider because we have a small squad and it’s going to be a special day for the club.”