Leigh head coach John Duffy says a good start to their Championship season is pivotal as they aim for top-flight status again.

The Centurions are the bookies favourites to be promoted to Super League but begin their campaign with a tough trip to Dewsbury Rams.

“It’s a big season and this week is big for me as we look towards that first game,” said Duffy.

“I have to pick the right squad and the right players to go there and get a win because it’s going to be very boggy and we have to start the season in the right way.”

Despite losing convincingly at Salford, Leigh have responded well in pre-season and defeated a young Wigan team 12-6 at Leigh Sports Village on Thursday.

Speaking about their display in the annual fixture against their local rivals, Duffy was full of praise for his players and hopes they can replicate it when the season starts.

“The most pleasing thing for me was the defence because we had to defend consecutive sets on our line and we really stood up for each other.

“I thought all the players put in a shift and we have set a good standard there. We’ll rest up a bit but it will be pretty full on this week now as we prepare to go to Dewsbury.”