Club made just £63 from Challenge Cup tie against pro opposition

Wigan St Patrick’s have revealed they made just £63 from a Challenge Cup tie against professional opposition last season after explaining why they weren’t in the first round draw for 2015.

The National Conference League side were missing from the 40-strong line-up for the draw, which took place at Wembley Stadium last week featuring the branding of new competition sponsors Ladbrokes.

Last season, St Pat’s landed the carrot of professional opposition in the shape of Leigh Centurions, something which would have traditionally been seen as a money spinner for any community club.

However, that wasn’t the case.

A club spokesperson said: “For those that remember last year, we drew a home game against Leigh Centurians. Unfortunately due to the rules of the game we were unable to hold this fixture at home, which would have been fantastic for the club and town.

“After a frantic search for an alternative venue in Wigan, we were forced to use the Leigh Sports Village. Due to the ridiculous costs involved, which we had cover and share the profit with the Centurians, we made a total of £63.

“Though there have been discussions regarding securing solutions for Amateur Clubs who see themselves in similar situations in the future, there has been nothing put in writing.

“Both the Management Committee and the Open Age Coaching Staff, therefore felt it was not in the players or clubs interest to enter the competition this year.

“We instead have a number of home friendlies that will support revenue being brought into the club.

“We wish all our fellow Amateur Clubs who are competing in the Challenge Cup the very best of luck.”

St Pat’s were beaten 74-6 by Leigh in the third round, and the Centurions went on to beaten by eventual winners Leeds later on in the competition.

23 clubs from the National Conference League featured in the 2015 first round draw.