Bulls push Miners to the wire (From Warrington Guardian)

Bulls push Miners to the wire

Leigh Miners Rangers 28

Bank Quay Bulls 22

BANK Quay Bulls narrowly missed out on the final of the Champions Challenge after being defeated by Leigh Miners on Saturday.

Bulls, who overcame Wigan St Judes in the quarter finals, faced the National Conference Grand Final winners in the last four and went ahead when Wes Lawton burrowed over, with Dean Braddish converting.

The outstanding Phil Braddish went over for a converted try that gave Bank Quay a 12-point lead but Leigh hit back with a try.

A touch judge intervened to disallow a Phil Braddish try and that setback was to cost Bulls, who fell behind when Miners grabbed two tries before half time.

Phil Braddish had another try ruled out after Leigh had gone further ahead.

Bulls' hopes seemed to be over when Miners scored again but, although Cragg and Dean Braddish missed more opportunities to cross, the latter then went over after stealing the ball from an opponent.

Lee Westwood forced his way across the whitewash for another try but there was not enough time for Bulls to level the scores.

Bank Quay's next game is not until September 3, when they will host Wigan St Cuthberts on the opening day of the North West Counties Premier Division season.