ADRIAN Lam continues to put a brave face on Leigh’s injury ravaged start to the new Betfred Super League season.

Leopards host World Club champions Wigan Warriors tonight (Thursday) and follow it next weekend at Hull KR with the next stage of their Challenge Cup defence.

Successes so far have been limited to wins over Hull FC and Sheffield Eagles and last time out Leigh went down 32-22 at Salford.

Warriors boss Matt Peet believes Leopards aren’t too far off turning a corner.

While Lam, his predecessor as Wigan head coach, declared: “I am always one to try and stay positive through difficult times.

“It can create good, strong harmony through the group if we manage it right and keep the belief.

“Everyone is feeling it in all areas. But we are doing our best.

“We are not dwelling on the negatives because we can’t change that. Not many people will tip us to beat them.

“But what I know is everyone with the group will give their absolute best and try to turn things round for the season.”

Centre Ricky Leutele and second row Frankie Halton are the latest injury casualties with groin issues.

“It’s been tough with injuries but regardless of whether they play we will power on,” said Lam.

Former Wigan player Umyla Hanley has been one of the positives. His hat-trick against Salford took his try tally to eight in four games.

“I worked a lot with Umyla,” says Peet whose own side looks to recover from its 12-4 Good Friday defeat at St Helens. “I am pleased he is showing what he is capable of.

“I always knew he had that ability and it is good to see a player delivering on his potential.

“It is not that it has taken him any longer than expected. Sometimes, it is just about the stars aligning in terms of the players in front of you and your own fitness and form.”

Wigan defeated Leigh three times in 2023, including a controversial 10-6 win at Leigh Sports Village last September.

“People can see why (Leigh have struggled),” added Peet. “They have had difficulties with injuries.

“It is one of the major challenges every squad faces especially when they come in those key positions. It can take a while again to find your rhythm and form.

“But they have still performed well in a lot of those games. Everyone is expecting it to turn and turn quickly.

“It’s all part of Leigh’s development as a Super League club and they won’t be losing for long.”