Leigh Leopards delivered a resilient defensive performance to secure a 20-16 victory over Leeds Rhinos, ending Leeds' perfect home record in Super League this season.
The Leopards' win, their second over Leeds this season, is a significant boost to their hunt for a top-six playoff spot.
Leeds regained a narrow lead early in the second half through Connor's boot. However, Leigh responded quickly. Charnley made a decisive run down the right flank, supported by Hanley, who then scored to put Leigh back in front.
With 20 minutes remaining, Leigh faced a challenge when Andrew Badrock was sent to the sin-bin for dangerous contact on Harry Newman. Despite playing with 12 men, the Leopards' defense held firm, preventing Leeds from scoring during the sin-bin period.
In the closing minutes, Leeds thought they had found an equalizer when Hall crossed the try line. However, superb scrambling defense from Hanley prevented the score, with Hall's foot being ruled in touch.
Leeds had one final opportunity after a 40/20 kick from Connor, but Liam Horne secured the win for Leigh by holding onto another grubber attempt in the dying seconds.
Leigh's starting lineup included Armstrong, Senior, Badrock, Hanley, and Charnley in the backs, with Cook and Lam as the half-backs. The forwards were Ofahengaue, Horne, Liu, Hughes, Trout, and Brogan, with Ipape, Mulhern, Alick-Wiencke, and Davis providing interchange.
Leeds Rhinos fielded Miller, Newman, Bird, Handley, and Hall in the backs, with Croft and Connor as the half-backs. Their forward pack consisted of Oledzki, O'Connor, Jenkins, Hankinson, Watkins, and C. Smith, with Holroyd, Cassell, McCormack, and Lloyd on the interchange.