Leigh sign Australian half-back from Toronto

Leigh have completed the signing of half-back Blake Wallace for the 2021 campaign.

The 28-year-old has been with the Wolfpack since their inaugural season in 2017, helping them progress all the way up to Super League.

Born in Wollongong, Wallace has excelled at the Canadian club and has scored an impressive 48 tries in 57 games.

“I’m really looking forward to getting over there and getting stuck in,” said Wallace. “I want to be playing consistent footy and it’s a challenge I can’t wait to take on.

“2020 hasn’t been the ideal season for myself and so many others but I’m a pretty positive person.

“Leigh and Toronto have had plenty of rivalry in the past and the Leigh Sports Village is a great venue where I’m looking forward to playing at regularly. It will be nice to have the Leigh fans behind me for a change.

“I’ve been told lots of good things about the Club and they look to be building a strong squad for next season which I can’t wait to be a part of.”

Before signing for Toronto, Wallace played lower grade rugby league in Australia for the Dapto Canaries, Central Queensland Capras and the famous Illawarra Cutters.

Despite his lack of experience at the top level, Wallace didn’t look out of place during the Wolfpack’s brief Super League campaign and was arguably their best player.

“This is a signing which shows what Leigh Centurions want to achieve as a Club next season,” said head coach John Duffy. “Blake is a really exciting player and I can’t wait to see him pull on a Leigh shirt.

“He’s a good runner, so evasive, and has a brilliant eye for a gap. Blake is a player who has the ability to make something out of nothing and someone I’m sure the Leigh Centurions fans will love watching.

“At Toronto he played out of position a lot which shows not only how valuable he is but how he is willing to do anything to help his team.

“2020 has been very challenging for Blake and everyone else but he can’t wait for a new challenge with Leigh Centurions.”