Adrian Lam is excited to see what Leigh Leopards can do in the second half of the season after winning six of the last seven to move within two points of the Super League top six.
The Leopards beat Bradford Bulls 38-12 in quite comfortable fashion at Odsal with the game controlled by half-back Adam Cook but the headlines were dominated by winger Josh Charnley as he scored a hat-trick to move first on the all-time Super League try-scoring charts.
Asked about his star winger, Lam told Sky Sports post-match: “It’s just a privilege to have him as part of our squad and to achieve that goal at our club is incredible.
“I know there’s still a long way to go in the season for him and anyone else that’s close there but I thought he was inspirational today. He had a couple of individual efforts at the start of the game, which certainly got us on the front foot and just inspired his team as he always does.”
As for Cook, who helped set up Charnley’s first and his record-breaking try, Lam paid tribute to the progress that the Australian has made after what was a difficult start to life in England.
Lam said: “He’s improved every week. We’re working really hard on it on a weekly basis on improving his game and him maturing along with the other halves partners.
“From slowly, slowly at the start of the season to now starting to get in the groove and it helps too when his goalkicking is at 100% for the second week in a row. That definitely helps and I still think there’s some improvement left there but yeah, I’m really excited about what’s ahead for him.”
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Leigh Leopards ready for next test as play-off chase continues
As well as being excited for what’s next to come from Adam Cook, the Leigh Leopards boss explained how he was excited to see what’s to come from his team in general.
Their win over the Bulls moved them within two points of the top six but crucially, two points away from third place as well and with a game against Hull KR next week, Leigh have a chance to climb.
Lam said: “I think third spot down is on 18. I think that puts us on 16, so we’re two points beyond third spot really in the context of the points. Still a long way behind on points for and against that but it’s nice to know that we’re getting close there.
“We’re only halfway through the season now, so a long way to go, building some confidence. I think (Umyla) Hanley and Tesi Niu come back next week as well which helps.”
Whilst the returning centres will be big boosts, Lam did not two injury concerns though they’re not thought to be that serious: “There was a couple of injuries to the boys with some deep cut lacerations to Josh at the end there and Lockie Lamb but we’re pretty excited about the second half of the season.”
Looking ahead to Hull KR, Lam admitted that there is ‘no bigger test’, adding: “We’ll look forward to that on a five-day turnaround so won’t have too much time to think about that. I thought we were methodical today.
“It wasn’t brilliant but a bit nervous about playing here to be honest with you. It’s always a tough place to come to on a smaller pitch if you don’t get it right. We weren’t perfect at the start of the game, they put a lot of pressure on us but I thought we were in control for most of it and come away with a really tough win which I’m proud of them for.”
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