Arguably Salford's biggest game since the 1998 semi final against Sheffield. The Red Devil's arrived at the Halliwell Jones stadium to take on Wigan. Victory would see Salford reach Wembley for the first time since 1969. This has been a dream for most of Salford's loyal band of supporters for decades. Form coming into this game has certainly dipped to say the least, but with key players returning anything could happen.
Craig Kopczack was back in the starting line up along with new signing Manu Vatuvei. Robert Lui dropped out late in the week and Tyrone McCarthy made the bench.
From the kick off the Red Devil's forced a Wigan knock on in the opening set with some ferocious defence roared on by the huge following behind the sticks.
Wigan winger Tom Davies came close in the early stages but was denied by the video referee. Oliver Gildart grabbed the opening try in the 9th minute with George Williams adding the goal 6-0.
Wigan were now taking control as the lively Sam Tomkins broke down centre field. Moments later a penalty was awarded for interference Williams added the goal 8-0.
Willie Isa strolled in after some poor Salford defence. Williams missed with the goal 12-0 after 16 minutes!
A response was needed and we certainly got one! Lovely hands from Michael Dobson and Todd Carney created the space for Niall Evalds to send Greg Johnson in at the corner! Michael Dobson kicked off the touch line 12-6.
Straight from the kick off Greg Johnson makes a thrilling break. Dobson's grubber kick is pin point for McCarthy to touch down. The video referee after much debate awards the try. Dobson's goal levels the scores at 12-12.
Lama Tasi leaves the field after what looked like a dangerous cannon ball tackle from Sam Powell. The incident goes on report but strangely no penalty awarded. Todd Carney responds with a huge 40-20 kick. Salford force a repeat set and pile the pressure on. Carney grubber kicks for Tyrone McCarthy who looks to be held back behind the in goal area by Sam Tomkins.
The video referee says no try but Salford are awarded a penalty as Tomkins is sin binned for a professional foul. Dobson edges Salford in front 12-14.
George Williams is lucky not to be sin binned after a real cheap shot on Kris Welham. A fantastic first half ends 12-14 to Salford.
Wigan started the second half on the front foot. Sam Tomkins causing havoc with his weaving runs,bursts through to send joe Burgess racing to the line. Some how Evalds tracks back to pull of an absolute wonder tackle. The video referee is called upon yet again and Evalds effort is rewarded, no try!
Wigan continue to press but Salford defend well Welham forcing the dangerous Gildart in to touch.
55 minutes in a dubious penalty for Wigan for a ball steal. Williams kicks the goal to level the scores at 14-14.
Another Wigan penalty follows after what looked a great tackle from Lami Tasi. Williams how ever misses the kick.
20 minutes to go as the heavens open the rain starts to pour down . The warriors break with Burgess kicking in field Mcllorum pounces to score. Williams goal 20-14.
Sam Tomkins then wisely slots over a drop goal 21-14.
Salford were not going to throw the towel and Todd Carney came up with another 40-20. Anthony Gelling was sin binned for dissent. Wigan would play the last ten minutes with twelve men. As the conditions got worse so did Salford's handling and the clock was against us. Gildart put the game to bed in the final minute with a try that made the final score a little harsh on Salford. Williams goal 27-14.
For Ian Watson the attention now turns to the super 8s. A tough trip to hull on Friday night awaits. Ian was proud of his sides effort today and so were the traveling supporters. Salford RLFC are certainly going in the right direction.
Final score at the Halliwell Jones stadium
Wigan 27 Salford 14.
Paul Whiteside
Pictures by Steve McCormick
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