How Leigh Leopards could line-up against Wigan Warriors following key injuries

Leigh Leopards are taking on Wigan Warriors in the play-off semi-final this week, in the ultimate ‘Battle of the Borough’.

They come into the game as major underdogs, but they have been battling against the odds all year.

With some key injuries ahead of this one, how could they line up?

Full-back: Matt Moylan

When Moylan is fit, he has to be the first choice for Leigh.

He has had a spectacular season, and it’s no coincidence that the side’s uptick in form coincided with him moving to full-back after starting the season in the halves.

Wingers: Darnell McIntosh and Umyla Hanley

After Josh Charnley’s injury, HIA protocols meant he automatically could not play this game.

Therefore, they’ll have to look for a new duo on the wings, and alongside McIntosh, we could see Umyla Hanley.

Hanley has been playing in the centres recently but started the season as a winger, and he could shift back there.

Centres: Zak Hardaker and Ricky Leutele

If Hanley does indeed move to the wing, there’s an opening in the centres, alongside Ricky Leutele, and Zak Hardaker is surely the best option.

He looked good playing in the pack, coming off the bench last week, but as a centre option, it feels like he makes a lot of sense.

Halves: Gareth O’Brien and Lachlan Lam

The usual pairing should be available, and these two have been excellent.

Lachlan Lam, in particular, will he hopeful of having a particular impact, up against some of the best players that Super League has to offer.

Front row: Tom Amone, Edwin Ipape and Robbie Mulhern

Another group of players unaffected, so far, by injury, it’s certainly one of the best front rows in the competition.

After an incredible performance last time out, Edwin Ipape will be full of confidence that he can make an impacct both going forward and in defence.

Meanwhile, it could be Tom Amone’s final game for Leigh Leopards and in Super League, as he’s heading to NRL next year.

Second row: Kai O’Donnell, Jack Hughes and John Asiata

With Frankie Halton out, it looks like it will be a straight swap for Kai O’Donnell, who missed the Salford game through injury but should be fit, according to head coach Adrian Lam.