BEN Reynolds reckons Leigh’s return to Middle 8’s action against Widnes on Sunday (kick-off 3pm) will be the biggest game of his career.

But Reynolds believes a first victory at the third attempt over the Vikings this season will see Centurions take a giant step towards Super League survival.

After three of the seven Qualifiers fixtures only points difference separate the derby rivals with Widnes occupying an automatic promotion slot.

“I played in the Middle 8’s for Leigh last year but I have not been involved in such an important game for the club as this one,” said the one-time Castleford youngster.

“It’s a big thing for the club, the town, the fans and the players. There are livelihoods on the line.

“We have got two wins under our belts already and beating another Super League team would put us really in the mix to stay up.”

Leigh lost 37-24 at Leigh Sports Village; Widnes inspired by a Danny Craven hat-trick. In the return fixture Vikings ran out 36-10 winners.

“Both were important games for us but we didn’t turn up and Widnes did,” added Reynolds.

“We couldn’t handle them. We owe them this time and the preparation have been very good.

“We have changed a couple of things but we do that every week depending on who we are playing.

“Widnes are a good team all round. They come down the middle pretty hard and their outside backs are strong too.

“We have got to be switched on for the whole game and be ready for everything.”

Reynolds hopes his performance in Leigh’s vital 30-6 win at Catalans Dragons last time out was good enough for him to retain his place.

“We needed that win, especially with the week off coming up,” he agreed. “It gave us a platform for the next four games.

“I hadn’t played for about six weeks but was fully fit and I had the energy.

“So, to go over there and get the win hopefully has put me in good stead and in with a good shout of staying in the team.

“Every week I want to play but I didn’t expect it to be in that manner,” he said of his recall that saw Daniel Mortimer switch to hooker.

Ben Thaler will take charge of Sunday’s game.

“Joint vice captain Harrison Hansen scooped two top prizes at Leigh’s Awards Dinner “ Players’ player and Coaches’ player of the year.

Danny Tickle won ‘Top Tackler’ and Mitch Brown ‘Top Metres maker.

Gregg McNally’s second try in the round 23 victory over Salford Red Devils was awarded try of the season.

James Clare won the Clubman of the Year accolade for his outstanding contributions towards the Club’s flourishing commercial and community activities.

The presentations were rounded off with an outstanding services to Rugby League award to club captain, Micky Higham who recently made his 500th career appearance of a glittering career.