LEIGH Centurions have lost their battle to hang on to rising stars Stuart Donlan and Mick Higham.

A specially convened arbitration panel meet in Leeds yesterday before ruling that the pair could sign for Super League club Halifax Blue Sox.

Full-back Donlan and hooker Higham had previously agreed terms with the Blue Sox after opting to exercise 'get out' clauses in their contracts.

But Leigh had demanded compensation for the pair and put asking prices of £10,000 on Donlan, a former NFP Young Player of the Year, and £40,000 on Higham who was man of the match in last season's Grand Final defeat.

Leigh are expected to issue a statement later today but it is understood that they have been given until 5pm tomorrow to reach a negotiated settlement figure with Halifax or the players become free agents.