Derek Beaumont backs Leigh Leopards to win the treble

We are about to stick our teeth in a clash between Leigh Leopards and St Helens at Warrington Wolves’ Halliwell Jones Stadium.

It is a huge semi-final for both clubs. St Helens are hoping to add to their dynasty and their amazing legacy.

Remarkably they have only won one Challenge Cup Final since 2008 and Paul Wellens will be hoping to change that.

He is also chasing four trophies in 2023 after winning the World Club Challenge.

As for Leigh, they are chasing Derek Beaumont’s dream of leading his side out at Wembley.

If Leigh do go to Wembley there is an argument that the treble is well and truly on for the Leopards which is something Beaumont emphasised today.

This came after the Leigh owner explained the rebrand: “IMG coming in, I was a bit nervous because they were only going to select 12 teams and I thought we looked too much like Wigan with the red and white and a centurion as a mascot.

“It is about being a show and standing out there and getting people to buy in and the fans have done that.

“They are wearing the leopard print.”

He then confirmed there would be a trip as a reward for the players as he underlined the treble chances: “There will be a trip at the end of the season. Last year it was Vegas if we won the treble and we did that, we are in the running for the treble in 2023 and what a story that would be but these guys are getting rewarded.

“If something comes off it will be Vegas, Ibiza if not because no matter what we do now they have achieved something amazing.

“Hats off to Adrian Lam, Chris Chester and Neil Jukes and what they have done.

“I am so excited. This is my first semi-final. Up the Leopards.”

The Leopards though have the World Club Challenge winners in their way this afternoon.

It is second v fourth and therefore will be one of the games of the season undoubtedly.

It remains to be seen who will be the ones to walk out at Wembley.