LUKE GALE OFF TO A FLYER
Castleford half-back Luke Gale opened his 2017 campaign with two tries and eight conversions as his side romped to victory against newly-promoted Leigh. The England international was outstanding throughout and showed no let-up despite his side leading 26-0 at the break. If Gale can continue to provide in the same way for the Tigers, he could be a real force for Daryl Powell’s men this year.
TIGERS DEBUTANTS ON TARGET
Castleford debutants Jesse Sene-Lefao and Greg Eden both scored a try to help their side to a round one victory. While winger Eden was making his second debut after playing at the Jungle in 2011, it was Sene-Lefao’s first appearance for Castleford and both players contributed well to their side’s victory. The forward bundled over in the first half after a slick attacking move, while Greg Eden dived in at the corner after the break.
TOUGH START TO TOP-FLIGHT LIFE
Leigh were dominated throughout by their opponents and the loss for Neil Jukes’ men may represent how tough they could find Super League early on. The Centurions face all of Leeds, St Helens, Wigan and Warrington within their next five fixtures and points could hard to come by. But the club are a different proposition at Leigh Sports Village and Jukes will hope their home presence will bolster them when the Rhinos and Saints come to town.
SOME POSITIVE SIGNS FOR LEIGH
Despite losing their first game in Super League since 2005, there were some positive signs for Leigh. Their attack was strongest down the left with former St Helens man Matty Dawson benefitting from passes out wide and earning himself a finish in the corner. Centurions forward Danny Tickle reached the milestone of 100 career tries – the ex-Hull FC, Wigan and Widnesย player is somewhat of a journeyman and deserves his latest accolade.
FINAL SCORE
Castleford 44
Tries: Gale (x2), Sene-Lefao (x1), Minikin (x2), Moors (x1), Eden (x1)
Goals: Gale (x8)
Leigh 16
Tries: Hampshire (x1), Dawson (x1), Tickle (x1)
Goals: Ridyard (x2)
