Adrian Lam has hailed David Armstrong’s bravery and courage to put his hand up to play for Leigh Leopards on Thursday night. The full-back missed Leigh’s last game with Catalans Dragons through illness and he was unable to train throughout the week in the build up to their trip to East Yorkshire.
However, he agreed to travel on the morning of the game and Lam felt comfortable enough throwing him back into the Leopards’ starting line-up at the MKM Stadium. Leigh didn’t get the win, of course, with the game finishing 22-22, but that was a gamble that well and truly paid off for Lam, with Armstrong picking up the man of the match award.
The Australian scored two tries on the night and proved to be constant threat with his turn of pace terrifying the Black and Whites’ defensive line throughout the contest. It was a showing that underlined his talent, grit and determination and Lam couldn’t be prouder of what he saw from the off-season recruit.
“He hasn’t trained for two weeks and wasn’t in the team until this morning,” the Leigh Leopards boss told the press after the game. “It’s just brave and courageous isn’t it. I’m glad we picked him now to be honest with you.
“I thought he was awesome tonight and he was probably close to another two or three tries and I think he’ll get those in time. He’s very talented and I’m proud of him for being able to play.
“Part of being a professional sportsman, they get paid to play and if some players are injured or sick they don’t play. I’m just proud of him for making the effort to get on that bus and travel up here.
“I guess when you come to Hull and score 22 points you want to win the game. We’re still undefeated, that’s the positive, seven points out of eight. The dressing room is disappointed but I don’t mind that, they’re all competitors.”
🐆 FULL TIME
Scores are level after a dramatic Golden Point period. pic.twitter.com/unX9j1DXyh
— Leigh Leopards (@LeighLeopardsRL) March 6, 2025
