LIAM Kay was the toast of Leigh after the Centurions beat a strong Wigan Warriors side.

The winger swept in for a hat-trick against a Warriors side that named nine of the team they fielded in last season’s Grand Final.

The home side were forced to come from behind after Wigan’s Joel Tomkins released Josh Charnley for an unconverted try in the 14th minute.

But Kay, who claimed 27 tries last season, replied after being put in by Tom Armstrong and Ryan Brierley struck a superb touchline conversion to nudge Leigh in front.

Leigh scored a second try before the break when Ben Reynolds kicked left and after Ryan Hampshire spilled the ball Charnley could only look on as Kay dashed past him to ground in the corner. Once more Brierley goaled.

Wigan roared back to reclaim the lead with tries from Joe Burgess and Ryan Hampshire. But Leigh held their nerve and Kay was on hand to convert Reynolds’ cute kick for the winning score.