LEIGH Leopards climbed into the play off places after beating a Warrington side that has prop Paul Vaughan sent-off after 11 minutes 16-12.

Vaughan received his marching orders from referee Liam Moore for a high shot on Owen Trout, a decision that left Vaughan shaking his head in disbelief as he left the field.

Leigh, whose latest win pushed them into the top six for the first time this season, did not immediately make the most of the extra man advantage.

But two tries in eight second-half minutes from Frankie Halton and Wire old boy Josh Charnley ensured Adrian Lam's side are back in contention for a season extension.

They still had to survive a nervous final minute when Sam Powell added to Matty Ashton's first-half effort.

However, Lam's side held on, leaving Wolves wondering what might have been had Vaughan not seen red.

Leigh, boosted by the return of full-back Matt Moylan for the first time in four games but without suspended skipper John Asiata, took the lead two minutes before Vaughan's dismissal.

Lachlan Lam seized on a loose carry and his offload to Ricky Leutele gave the centre an unopposed run to touch down.

Another flashpoint soon after the re-start saw referee Moore keep his cards in his pocket but speaking to both captains. Moylan kicked the resulting penalty.

And five minutes from half-time Warrington struck back in their first sustained attack.

George Williams' kick drew a knock on close to his own line by Darnell McIntosh. From the resulting possession, Williams then threw a cut-out pass for Ashton to claim his 21st try of the season. Josh Thewlis levelled the scores with a fine touchline kick.

Warrington boss Sam Burgess though still was not happy and engaged referee Moore in discussions as the teams left the pitch.

His mood did not improve as two handling errors gifted Leigh the chance to re-take the lead at the start of the second half.

A lengthy video review denied Lam a try but there was no denying second row Halton a third touchdown in four games after 45 minutes.

Eight minutes later Charnley maintained his recent try-scoring exploits against Wire, touching down for a fourth time in four games.

Warrington, beaten for only the second time in 10 games, had a glimmer of hope when old boy Jack Hughes was sin binned after 58 minutes.

But Leigh held firm until the 79th minute when Powell crossed before time ran out for Warrington.