TOM Briscoe has scored three tries in Leigh Leopards' three-stop road to Wembley.
Eight years ago, the 33-year-old winger plundered five in an hour to leave an indelible mark on Betfred Challenge Cup Final history.
But one will do on Saturday, providing Leopards inflict more Wembley misery on humiliated 2015 runners-up Hull KR.
Briscoe’s sensational nap hand of touchdowns for Leeds Rhinos will receive plenty of air time before he lines up for his fifth final appearance since a losing debut for Hull FC back in 2008.
He went on to win and score for Leeds against Castleford and Salford in the 2014 and 2020 finals.
But he is remembered for those five tries against Rovers, including a 90 metres solo effort.
“That was the best game of my career for obvious reasons,” said the former England international.
“Every year, around this time, the clips get put out. I have a copy of the game in the loft but I have never watched it in full. It’s nice though to watch the tries back.”
Briscoe has other more noticeable reminders of becoming the first player to score five tries in a Betfred Challenge Cup Final.
“My kit is framed and there are my winners’ medal and the Lance Todd medal,” he explained.
“I’ve also got a signed match ball, a signed bottle of champagne and I also have a ticket from every player signed. They are all keepsakes to remember and pass on.”
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None of Rovers’ 2015 squad are still at the club though current Robin Ryan Hall was Briscoe’s wing partner for Leeds.
But the Humbersiders ended Leigh’s interest in the competition at the last 16 in 2022 en route to the semi-finals.
“They have got enough players and current coaching staff who are winners,” agrees Briscoe.
“So, we know it will be a tough game. They like to kick you into a corner and defend on the back of that.
“They are also one of the better teams in the league to attack. They love to throw it about and offload so we need to make sure we are on guard.”
Briscoe’s switch from Headingley to Leigh Sports Village may have raised a few eyebrows. But the move has paid off for both player and club with his 12 Super League tries to go with those in the Betfred Challenge Cup.
“We were quietly confident as a group what we could achieve, myself included in that,” he insisted.
“But to be sat where we are in the table and going to a final is incredible for any team let alone a newly promoted one.
“It has been a crazy season and one I am thoroughly enjoying for obvious reasons.”
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