Tuesday 22 May 2018 11:49, UK
Leigh have appointed former captain Kieron Purtill as their head coach on a permanent basis after being in temporary charge for the last four months.
Purtill, 41, who joined the Centurions' backroom staff from Huddersfield last year, took over as caretaker coach when Neil Jukes resigned less than a month into the Betfred Championship season and has guided them to 11 successive wins.
Leigh owner Derek Beaumont said: "It has been a very difficult time at the club with the start we had and it has certainly tested my resolve.
"There is still a long way to go but I feel it is an appropriate time to make it known that I have no intentions of appointing a coach other than confirming Kieron Purtill in the role.
"I haven't been actively seeking a coach for some time as I have been satisfied with Kieron's performance and the feedback I have received from the senior players alongside the results on the pitch.
"I did go to market for a proven, experienced coach but deep inside I knew it was just a name and that Kieron was up to the job."
Under Purtill, Leigh have climbed to within two points of the top four with high hopes of a swift return to Super League, and to the quarter-finals of the Challenge Cup after knocking out Salford in the last round.
Purtill said: "I'd like to thank Derek for giving me this opportunity as it is a huge honour to coach Leigh Centurions, and one that means a lot to me on a personal basis."
