Halifax V Salford Red Devil’s DITD BIG MATCH PREVIEW

Halifax RLFC vs Salford Red Devils 

Super League Qualifiers – The Shay - Sunday 2nd September 3:00PM

The Red Devils are two from two from The Qualifiers and have looked impressive against both their opponents so far. Sunday’s visit to Halifax RLFC will pose a different challenge as Salford play their first Championship side of the competition.

After squeezing into 4th place in the Championship table by a single point from Featherstone Rovers and Leigh Centurions, The Fax were the surprise package of the Championship. Unfortunately, their results so far mean that with two losses from two (against Toronto and Toulouse) they sit at the foot of the Qualifiers table.

Head to Head

Salford’s last 3 head to heads against Halifax have all resulted in victories:

5th September 2015: Halifax 28- 50 Salford

31st July 2008: Halifax 18-36 Salford

27th June 2008: Salford 30-24 Halifax

Form

As you can see, running through the Head to Heads shows that history at least as well as current form is on the side of the Red Devils. However, the history part at least will count for little when Salford take the field this weekend in West Yorkshire. Many teams have found Halifax at home an extremely tough proposition, Fax having only lost twice all season at home, both times to runaway leaders Toronto Wolfpack.

Salford meanwhile in Super League having only picked up two wins all season away from home, the second coming just three weekends and two matches ago, against Hull KR. It’s imperative therefore that Ian Watson’s men concentrate on current form to ensure they come away with 2 more Qualifier points in the race for Super League safety. 

With 3 wins from their last 3 games though, as well as being the Super League team, Salford will start as firm favourites for this tie.

Coaches

Fax Coach Richard Marshall will be keen to lock horns with Devil’s coach Ian Watson, having briefly crossed paths back at Swinton in the 2006 season as players. 

With both men also having their first forays into coaching with their current clubs and both starting their managerial careers in 2015, there are many similarities between them. However, personal battles aside, both coaches will acknowledge that 2 points from this match will be all that matters at full time.

Focus on: Halifax

Halifax’s Marshall has highlighted several areas of importance in the build up to the game:

Intensity: In Fax’s last game against Toulouse, the coach believed that the squad lacked some intensity and ultimately it’s what cost them the game. This will be an area against the Red Devil’s he believes his side wont come up short in, again.

Attack: The pack and defence are areas he believes is already strong, however in the last couple of games, the attacking areas have been lacking, particularly when putting pressure on the goal line. The coach has clearly worked on these areas during the week and the spare weekend for the cup final, so Salford will have to be ready to face a well drilled attack.

Kicking: In the last couple of games, Halifax have been guilty of not following up their good kicking with kick chases. Marshall suggested in some cases the chases have been non-existent, so this will be an area that has been focussed on ahead of Sunday. Steve Tyrer Halifax’s main goal kicker and an experienced player is injured so could be a crucial loss ahead of the game.

Focus on: Salford

Attitude: Red Devil’s Coach Ian Watson has focussed on attitude during the extra week of training and to make sure that the professionalism of his side during the rest of the games of the qualifiers remains high. There is clearly no room for complacency in his side and the coach has announced a strong looking 19 for the trip across the Pennines to West Yorkshire.

Pivots: The difference in this game could come from the play makers in the middle of the Salford side. Watson hailed the trio of Evalds, Lui and Hastings as possibly the best pivots and playmakers in Super League on current form, during the televised victory against Widnes. This will give those players added confidence that he is placing so much praise on them. 

Watson has always been quick to emphasise the importance of the team over the individuals, but in Hastings he is managing a player who is on top of his form and clearly enjoying his rugby. This is releasing Rob Lui from being the main playmaker, giving him more time on the ball and allowing him to express himself. 

With the return of Evalds at full back towards the end of the regular season completing the pivots, Watson can call on a number of players to make the big decisions at key times and areas of the match.

Therefore, there should be no reason not to think that this week’s clash over in West Yorkshire will be anything but a good performance, a good Salford victory and two more precious points toward Super League for 2019.

Come on Salford!

Pictures by Steve McCormick 

Preview by Richard Lowe

check out this weeks podcast here for all your Salford Red Devils news and chat

Halfiax v Salford Red Devils match preview

Halifax have had another really consistent season in the championship. Young coach Richard Marshall has worked wonders on a low budget and boasts some really exciting young talent in his side. Former Halifax and Salford legend Colin Dixon’s grandson Chester Butler is making a real name for himself and will definitely be a player to watch. The vastly experienced Scott Murrell teams up in the halves with Ben Johnston and Fax are not short of pace with speedsters Kieran Moss, Will Sharp and Ben Heaton. Former Salford player Steve Tryer has become a real points machine in West Yorkshire and his now in his 6th season at Halifax.

Salford last met Halifax in a competitive fixture back in 2015 in the qualifiers. The Red Devils won away in a highly entertaining match 28-50. Niall Evalds grabbed a hat trick. Salford beat Halifax home and away in the 2008 Championship season.

Halifax were relegated from Rugby League’s top flight at the end of the 2003 season. The club have a long and proud history leaving there historical home at Thrum Hall at the end of 1997. Since then they have shared The Shay with football team Halifax Town.

The clubs major honours are Challenge cup winners 1903, 1904, 1931, 1939 and 1987. There 1939 success saw a 20-3 victory over Salford at Wembley.

Halifax’s last League title came in 1986.

It’s been a tough start to the Qualifiers for the West Yorkshire side with two defeats. At home to Toronto 0-14 and away at Toulouse 28-6.

As the Wolfpack pack found a few weeks ago Halifax are a real tough nut to crack on there own ground, Salford will need to be switched on to get the result on Sunday.

Last Ten meetings 

1997 Super League, Halifax 12 Salford 28

1998 Super League, Halifax 34 Salford 6

1999 Super League, Halifax 30 Salford 14

1999 Super League, Halifax 32 Salford 20

2000 Super League, Halifax 12 Salford 29

2001 Super League, Halifax 30 Salford 18

2002 Super League, Halifax 12 Salford 15

2008 National League, Halifax 18 Salford 36

2015 Qualifiers, Halifax 28 Salford 50

2017 Colin Dixon Memorial Trophy, Halifax 6 Salford 13

They played for both.

Colin Dixon, Greg Austin, Damien Gibson, Gavin Clinch, Andrew Dunemann, Luke Adamson, Luke Ambler, Simon Baldwin, Danny Arnold, Steven Bannister,

Gavin Bennion, Carl Briggs , Ryan Boyle, Peter Brown, Ryan Clayton, Jason Flowers, Danny Halliwell, Karle Hammond, Steve Hampson, Tim Hartley, Phil Hassan, David Hodgson, Graham Holroyd, John Pendlebury, Martin Moana, Nick Pinkney, Craig Randall, Ian Watson, Paul White, Colin Whitfield, Steve Tyrer and Lokeni Savellio to name a few.

A match to remember Monday 1st April 2002 Halifax 12 Salford 15 

2002 was a real season of struggle for Salford. With young coach Steve McCormack in charge things didn’t go to plan. Steve was eventually replaced by Karl Harrison mid season but the writing was on the wall. Salford had to beat Castleford on the final day to stay up but lost 10-20 at The Willows and we’re relegated. A season with quite a lot of big defeats and dark days which our loyal supporters would rather forget.

Easter time though was a bit more memorable. A good solid win over Warrington on good Friday at The Willows 31-18, Salford travelled over the pennies to Halifax on Easter Monday.

A damp and miserable day was in store as the two sides came out for kick off.

The Reds made an excellent start and played the conditions really well,scoring two tries in the opening six minutes.

First, Halifax full-back Daryl Cardiss fumbled a high high kick allowing Francis Maloney to score under the posts.

Three minutes later, from another Bobbie Goulding high kick, Mick Wainwright outjumped Cardiss to catch the ball and touch down.

Goulding stepped up on both occasions to convert the tries.

Salford extended their lead on 11 minutes when Gouding kicked a penalty after Blue Sox hooker Sean Penkywicz was penalised for striking Reds forward Darren Shaw.

Halifax tried to respond but Gavin Clinch saw his effort disallowed for a double movement and moments later Goulding kicked a drop goal to put Salford 15-0 up at half time.

The home side finally broke their duck five minutes after the restart.

Clinch went over for a try after good work by Colum Halpenny and Andrew Dunemann while Danny Tickle added the goal.

In the 63rd minute, Jamie Thackray took the ball close to the Salford line and went over with four Reds tacklers trying to hold him back.

Tickle added a second goal but Salford held on for their first back-to-back victories under coach Steve McCormack.

The teams that day;

Halifax: Cardiss, Beckett, Woods, Donlan, Halpenny, Dunemann, Clinch, Goldspink, Penkywicz, Gannon, Bloem, Tickle, McMenemy. Replacements: Hobson, Thackray, Flowers, Birchall.

Salford: Gibson, Pinkney, Nicol, Hunte, Arnold, Maloney, Goulding, Baynes, Alker, Shaw, Jowitt, Treacey, Wainwright. Replacements: Holroyd, Corvo, P. Highton, Ebrill.

Referee: Steve Ganson (St Helens).

Sunday’s match 

Salford have made a perfect start to the Qualifiers with two excellent wins over Hull kr and Widnes. Halifax have lost both there games to Toronto and Toulouse. The Red Devils will start favourites but Richard Marshall has moulded a hard working side who can play some clever stuff. In what has been an enthralling Championship campaign Halifax’s fourth place finish was a great achievement. It promises to be an exciting encounter if the last qualifiers meeting has anything to go by. Three years ago saw Salford triumph 28-50. Greg Johnson, Niall Evalds and Ben Jones Bishop scoring hat tricks.

The action gets under way at 3pm

Safe travels and enjoy the match, Paul Whiteside.

Pictures by Steve McCormick 

Dagenham and Redbridge v Salford City Fc preview

From South to West. 

Saturday see’s the Ammies travel south for a 430 mile round trip to Dagenham and Redbridge. Redbridge are currently sitting bottom of the National League with 1 point from 7 games. 

Redbridge will be looking to register there first home win and 3 points of season against Salford. However Alexander’s men will having something to say about that having gone 4 games without a defeat whilst scoring 9 goals in that period. 

The form of Redbridge will be good news for striker Adam Rooney who will be looking to add to his 6 goals already this season. As well as his strike partner Rory Gaffney who hasn’t managed a goal since the opening day vs Leyton Orient. 

Tuesday will then see Salford travel west to face promotion rivals A.F.C Fylde. Last time Salford travel to Mill Farm the game ended 3-3 with a stoppage time goal from Fylde defender Williams. 

Salford will be looking to make another bold statement this Tuesday tonight after this current run. Fylde, who currently sit 3rd in the table will be looking to continue there start to season, where they have only conceded 3 goals and haven’t picked a defeat up yet! 

With there current form the Ammies will be looking to get the 3 points on the coast, However they do need to make a massive statement vs Fylde if they want to me considered as title contenders this early on in the season.

Pictures from @salfordcityfc 

Report by Joe Burns

Salford City FC 3 Barrow 1 Match Report

Moving on up!

After Saturdays 1-1 at Havent Salford needed to get back to winning ways against Barrow on Bank Holiday Monday. 

Barrow Midfield Jason Taylor opened the scoring in front of the home end with a smart finish from just outside the box. 

9 minutes later Adam Rooney was left unmarked in the box and fired a shot low and hard to beat Barrow keeper Firth to make it 1-1 at half time. 

15 minutes into the second half Salford won a corner and from a Danny Lloyd delivery new signing, Nathan Pond grab his first goal of the season with a powerful header. 

Minutes later Barrows Number 7 Jack Hindle handballed a cross from the Ammies left hand side. Salford’s new number 10 Danny Lloyd stepped up with a short run up slotted home the penalty.  

Final Score:

Salford City 3 - 1 Barrow 

Salford:

1.Neal, 2.Wiseman, 23. Pond, 6. Piergianni 3.Touray, 18.Whitehead, 4.Mafuta, 11.Walker, 10.Lloyd, 9. Rooney(C), 30. Gaffney

Substitutes: 12. Crocombe (GK), 5.Hogan,

7. Haughton, 8.Maynard, 21.Rodney.

Pictures from @salfordcityfc twitter
Report from Joe Burns

Salford City Fc 3 Chesterfield FC 2

Chesterfield came to Moor Lane on Saturday wanting to get back to winning ways after losing there 100% start to the season season on Tuesday night vs Barrow. 

In the 19th minute Adam Rooney grad his 4th goal of the season to open the scoring for Salford. Then fellow new singing Rory Gaffney then struck the woodwork to nearly make it 2-0. 

After that Chesterfield came close on a number of different occasions after breaking down Salford’s defence. The equaliser finally came just before half time on the 43rd minute when former West Ham winger  Zavon Hines grad the goal from a Salford defensive error. 

City then re took the lead from a Danny Lloyd Corner which was headed home by central defender Carl Piergianni. However 3 minutes later another Chesterfield equaliser came from former Celtic and West Brom striker Marc-Antoine Fortuné. 

Salford came very close to grabbing a winner from new Rigby Back Scott Wiseman who’s strike hit the woodwork. The winning goal did finally come and it was another new signing who got the goal.Central Midfield Danny Whitehead fired a shot from just outside the box which found the bottom left hand corner in the 89th Minute. 

Final Score 

Salford 3 - 2 Chesterfield 

Salford:

1.Neal, 2.Wiseman, 23. Pond, 6. Piergianni 3.Touray, 18.Whitehead, 8.Maynard, 11.Walker, 10.Lloyd, 9. Rooney(C), 30. Gaffney

Substitutes: 12. Crocombe (GK) 4.Mafuta, 5.Hogan,

7. Haughton, 21.Rodney.

Attendance: 3,595

Report by Joe Burns

Pictures from @salfordcityfc

Salford 32 Widnes 6 Match Report

Salford made it a perfect start to the qualifiers with a comprehensive victory over a struggling Widnes side. 

The visitors made a bright start going over for the first points of the match, veteran half back Liam Finn’s high kick wasn’t dealt with by the Salford defence. Charlie Runciman touched down in the corner. Christian Inu with a perfect conversion off the touch line. 

Both sides traded sets with the home supporters starting to get a little anxious.

With sixteen minutes on the clock Junior Sau powered over for a trade mark try. Ed Chamberlain who’s kicking has been excellent slotted the touch line conversion with ease to level the score. On the next set Robert Lui booted a 40-20 kick to get Salford on the front foot, Jackson Hastings error though let the Vikings off the hook.

The Red Devils didn’t have to wait long though as Sau grabbed his second try after a nice move and good work from Hastings. Again Chamberlain landed the difficult conversion 12-6.

Speedsters Chamberlain and Niall Evalds combined well, the latter shot off on a thrilling break. Patrick Ah Van coming to the rescue for Widnes.

The Vikings were struggling for field position coming up with numerous errors in there own half. At times they looked a desperate side who are certainly feeling the pressure. 

In the closing stages of the first half Salford’s Joey Lussick was sin binned. 

Olly Ashall-Bott had really caught the eye for the Vikings, the 20 year old fullback had been excellent under the high ball and very exciting going forward. He picked an injury up and was helped from the field, the incident was put on report although it looked like a routine tackle.

Leading 12-6 at half time despite Salford’s territorial dominance the game was still on a knife edge. However five minutes in to the second half Robert Lui burrowed over from close range to extend the lead. 

Evalds again showing lightning pace on one of his trade mark breaks looked to have beaten the Widnes defence but lost his boot and tried to pass inside but the chance evaded him.

53 minutes gone and a Salford penalty sees a call for take the two ring around the ground. The advice is duly obliged with Ed Chamberlain kicking the goal to take the sting out of Widnes at 20-6.

A classy piece of play on the hour set Evalds up for a well deserved try. Chamberlain making it 5/5 with his goal kicking to put the game to bed.

The Red Devils rounded the scoring off when Aussie duo Hastings and Lussick combined with a nice ball back on the inside for Mark Flanagan to steam over.

A faultless kicking display from Chamberlain capped off a super result 32-6.

A delighted Ian Watson speaking after the match highlighted the impact his new signings have had and is particularly pleased with the balance and spine of his side. There is still plenty of work to be done in the remaining five matches but the perfect start Salford have made puts them in a good place. Three wins on the trot for the first time since May 2017 and confidence continues to grow. The Red Devil’s now have a good break before they play Halifax in a fortnight.

Paul Whiteside.

Pictures by Steve McCormick 📷

Salford City FC v Chesterfield FC Big Match Preview

The Only Way is Up

After gaining just one point from the first three games Graham Alexander’s men have finally registered there first three points of the season. Which has moved them up to 14th in the National League. 

Last time out against Halifax Town saw captain Liam Hogan dropped to the bench to be replaced my the experienced Nathan Pond who went onto to get the assist for Adam Rooney’s winning goal. 

Dropping Hogan wouldn’t of been an easy decision for Alexander to make but it played a big part in Salford getting the three points. Pond, who was making his first competitive for Salford showed his experience and leadership quality doing the whole 90 minutes. 

The partnership of Hogan and Carl Piergianni has had a rough start to he season and you couldn’t tell they have played a full season together with some off the errors and decision making they have both made. 

Chesterfield @ Moor Lane 18/08/18 

Chesterfield have had a good start to the season picking up nine points from four games: scoring 7 and conceding 3.  

Chesterfields winning start was ended on Tuesday when they travelled to Barrow, who took the lead early on and ended up taking all three points in a 3-2 victory. 

Again it will be a hard game for Salford with Chesterfield wanting to get back on the winning horse. However if Salford keep the ball along the floor and play football it should end in a Salford victory. 

Once again at Moor Lane will have another big attendance after Chesterfield have already sold out there 1300 allocation.

Match report Salford v Widnes

Salford made it a perfect start to the qualifiers with a comprehensive victory over a struggling Widnes side. 

The visitors made a bright start going over for the first points of the match, veteran half back Liam Finn’s high kick wasn’t dealt with by the Salford defence. Charlie Runciman touched down in the corner. Christian Inu with a perfect conversion off the touch line. 

Both sides traded sets with the home supporters starting to get a little anxious.

With sixteen minutes on the clock Junior Sau powered over for a trade mark try. Ed Chamberlain who’s kicking has been excellent slotted the touch line conversion with ease to level the score. On the next set Robert Lui booted a 40-20 kick to get Salford on the front foot, Jackson Hastings error though let the Vikings off the hook.

The Red Devils didn’t have to wait long though as Sau grabbed his second try after a nice move and good work from Hastings. Again Chamberlain landed the difficult conversion 12-6.

Speedsters Chamberlain and Niall Evalds combined well, the latter shot off on a thrilling break. Patrick Ah Van coming to the rescue for Widnes.

The Vikings were struggling for field position coming up with numerous errors in there own half. At times they looked a desperate side who are certainly feeling the pressure. 

In the closing stages of the first half Salford’s Joey Lussick was sin binned. 

Olly Ashall-Bott had really caught the eye for the Vikings, the 20 year old fullback had been excellent under the high ball and very exciting going forward. He picked an injury up and was helped from the field, the incident was put on report although it looked like a routine tackle.

Leading 12-6 at half time despite Salford’s territorial dominance the game was still on a knife edge. However five minutes in to the second half Robert Lui burrowed over from close range to extend the lead. 

Evalds again showing lightning pace on one of his trade mark breaks looked to have beaten the Widnes defence but lost his boot and tried to pass inside but the chance evaded him.

53 minutes gone and a Salford penalty sees a call for take the two ring around the ground. The advice is duly obliged with Ed Chamberlain kicking the goal to take the sting out of Widnes at 20-6.

A classy piece of play on the hour set Evalds up for a well deserved try. Chamberlain making it 5/5 with his goal kicking to put the game to bed.

The Red Devils rounded the scoring off when Aussie duo Hastings and Lussick combined with a nice ball back on the inside for Mark Flanagan to steam over.

A faultless kicking display from Chamberlain capped off a super result 32-6.

A delighted Ian Watson speaking after the match highlighted the impact his new signings have had and is particularly pleased with the balance and spine of his side. There is still plenty of work to be done in the remaining five matches but the perfect start Salford have made puts them in a good place. Three wins on the trot for the first time since May 2017 and confidence continues to grow. The Red Devil’s now have a good break before they play Halifax in a fortnight.

Paul Whiteside.

Pictures by Steve McCormick 📷

BIG match preview Salford V Widnes

Salford Red Devils vs Widnes Vikings

Super League Qualifiers - Saturday 18th August – AJ Bell Stadium KO 3:15PM

 

The Red Devils will be looking to make it two wins from two from the Qualifiers as they meet the Widnes Vikings this weekend at the AJ Bell.

Salford got off to winning ways in the first qualifier of the season as Ian Watson’s men demonstrated exceptional professionalism in overcoming an in-form Hull KR side, 28 points to 10 away from home. One of the highlights being Robert Lui running in a 90-metre intercepted try.

All eyes now turn to Saturday’s key game against the Vikings who will bring a battle scarred side to the AJ Bell after having lost 17 super league and qualifying games on the run.

Their last victory? A 24-16 home win against The Red Devils way back in March. A fixture no doubt that will have featured highly in the talk amongst the coaches and team in the run up to the game at the weekend.

It’s critical therefore that the team continue their good recent performances against the Vikings and that the halves continue to show they are cultivating an understanding between each other.

Here are some critical match ups where the game could be won and lost:

 

Prop: Greg Burke v Chris Huston

Signed in June this year from Widnes, Greg Burke will be desperate to get on the pitch to face his former employees. Last time Salford faced Widnes, he scored a debut try under the posts with the teams tied at 12-12. A score that turned out to be a match winner. If he’s fit enough after a short spell on the side-lines, Ian Watson will be sure to play the 25-Year-old Prop. He will just need to ensure his emotions don’t get the better of him.

Aussie forward Chris Huston has played in all areas in the Widnes pack and is expected to be in the Prop position. Always a tough tackler, his career has included NRL appearances for The North Queensland Cowboys and The Newcastle Knights. The latter he stayed with for four years and during the 2012 season averaged over 41 tackles per game, the best in the NRL that year.

Expect fireworks as always in the props match up.

 

Hooker: Joey Lussick vs Aaron Heremaia

In his first appearance for the Red Devils last week, Joey Lussick scored a typical hooker’s scooting try and was involved in one of Salford’s most complete away performances of the season. His link up with the halves was particularly impressive seeing as he has only been with the club a few short weeks and it could be this link up and previous knowledge and understanding between himself and Hastings at school-boy, Roosters and Manly back in Australia, that may well be the edge that Salford need this season. If he can repeat this performance and grow his relationship with the halves even further, it will likely mean a spot in Super League beckons for the Red Devils in 2019.

Aaron Heremaia

Another Australasian import this time from Auckland, New Zealand, Heremaia could be set to make his 100th appearance for the Widnes Vikings this weekend. He will therefore want to ensure that his side will come away with a win to rubber stamp this occasion. The last time his side won a super league match – it was against The Red Devils – he featured heavily and scored a late try to ensure their victory. It’s up to Salford to ensure lightning doesn’t strike twice this season.  

 

Loose Forward: Mark Flanagan vs Weller Hauraki

Mark Flanagan has once again been the glue holding the team together this season. His consistency of performances and level of professionalism are second to none and the run of poor form leading up the qualifiers would have hurt him more than most other players. His awareness of space is something that the Salford halves will be able to utilise to their advantage in broken play. As well as being the 3rd pivot or dummy runner to allow passes further out wide in set plays. What’s key is that he stays fit for the rest of this season to ensure there is a calm head on the field during moments of pressure in this run of games.

After his loan move in June from Salford to Widnes in a swap deal with Greg Burke and Ed Chamberlain, Weller Hauraki has been solid in a losing team, making 8 appearances so far for the Vikings. Ian Watson will know his strengths and weaknesses and will hope to exploit them. Culpable occasionally of dropping the ball and an over-ambitious offload, the Red Devils will want to get up quickly on him to try and disrupt his game.

Halves: Jackson Hastings vs Liam Finn

Since his arrival last month, Jackson Hastings is already a firm fan’s favourite. After a storming 20-minute cameo in the home victory at Leeds, he cemented his place at the heart of the team with a dominant display of kicking and creativity against Hull KR. Not only that, but he also stepped up and showed his kicking prowess by scoring goals in the second half. His willingness to be the main man has allowed Rob Lui to relax and therefore flourish in a backline that looks as threatening as it did last season. Should he remain fit, the Red Devils should be confident of securing their place in Super league for 2019.

Liam Finn signed only a few weeks ago for the Widnes Vikings from Wakfield Trinity after helping them yet again into the Super 8’s competition. He had 79 appearances since 2016 and will be a good loan signing for the rest of the campaign. It will be critical that Salford starve Finn of any possession high up the field as his kicks and passing can be destructive in the right areas. If he can strike up a partnership with his three-quarter team mates quickly, it will go a long way to deciding where the Vikings may finish in the Qualifiers.

With the squad in place that the Red Devils have now and the options open to Ian Watson, coupled with Widnes’s defensive and mental frailties should they go behind, Salford fans must be confident of a good performance and most importantly another 2 points on the road to Super League in 2018.

C’mon Salford!

Salford Red Devil’s v Widnes big match preview

After last weeks opening game defeat at home to London Broncos the pressure is mounting on Widnes. Winning can become a habit, on the other hand so can losing. The Vikings have not managed a win in Super League since there victory over Salford on the 22nd March. There poor run of results cost long serving coach Dennis Betts his job with Francis Cummins taking over as head coach. With 6 games remaining in the qualifiers 4 of those will be away from home with trips to France and Canada against Toulouse and Toronto respectively. It’s a daunting task for Widnes but they have strengthened there playing squad in recent weeks with Veteran playmaker Liam Finn arriving from Wakefield and former Salford forward Harrison Hansen joining from Leigh.

Salford have put in two excellent performances recently with a home victory over Leeds to round the regular season off and backing up last week away at Hull Kingston Rovers. Many pundits had predicted a Robins victory but Salford put in an outstanding display leaving Tim Sheens and his team shell shocked. Rovers travel to Toronto this weekend for a tough test against The Wolfpack who’ve only lost once this season on Canadian soil.

Super League home record

Salford 7

Draws 0

Widnes 3

Here are a few memorable matches from down the years

2nd March 1969, Challenge cup quarter final, Salford 20 Widnes 7

6th November 1973 Captain Morgan trophy, Salford 32 Widnes 9

14th October 1979 League, Salford 16 Widnes 16

2nd October 1988 League, Salford 15 Widnes 12

22nd February 2004 League Salford 24 Widnes 12

12th September 2014 League Salford 36 Widnes 6

They played for both.

There are quite a lot to be honest so I’ve selected a few from years gone by and some from not so long ago.

Richie Barnett, keith Bentley, Eric Prescott, Craig Coleman, Jason Critchley, John Duffy, Cliff Eccles, Ensene Famailo, Joe Famailo, Matt Gardner, Aaron Moule, Adrian Hadley, Karl Hammond, Tim Hartley, Gareth Hock, Rangi Chase, David Hulme, Craig Makin, Stephen Myler, Richie Myler, Stephen Nash, Gareth O Brien, Terry O Connor, Kieran O Loughlin, Lokeni Savelio, Trevor Stockley, Kevin Tamati, David Myers, Steve Tyrer and Phil Waring.

Saturday’s match.

After recent results Ian Watson’s side will be brimming with confidence. The way in which Hull kr were dismantled last week showed this Salford side has got plenty to offer in the qualifiers. Some great attacking rugby recently has been dove tailed with a solid defence.

Only a fool would take The Vikings lightly. They showed some good glimpses last week and with Joe Mellor and Liam Finn pulling the strings at half back if they click Widnes can be a handful. The visitors boast some very talented youngsters in there ranks including fullback Oliver Ashall-Bott, Matt Whitley, Danny Walker and the Chapelhow brothers Ted and Jay.

Jackson Hastings has given Salford a massive boost, the Australian has certainly taken the pressure off Robert Lui. Hastings and Lui have linked up well so far and there kicking game last weekend was absolutely superb. Niall Evalds returning from injury has been another real positive for Ian Watson. Evalds has looked so sharp and dangerous. Safe under the high ball and a fabulous attacking threat. Ed Chamberlain who made the switch from Widnes to Salford not so long ago really has settled in well. His explosive pace and clever support play makes you ponder why the Vikings allowed him to leave. Weller Hauraki moved in the opposite direction after almost four years at Salford and is likely to feature on Saturday.

Victory for Salford won’t guarantee Super League status for 2019, on the other hand though it will be a perfect start with momentum building.

The action gets under way at 3:15pm.

Enjoy the match and safe travels.

Paul Whiteside.

Pictures by Steve McCormick 📸

Salford City FC 2 FC Halifax Town 1 Match Report

Captain for the night Adam Rooney scores a brace to give Salford City FC there first three points of the season. 

 

Salford are now moving in the right direction climbing from 21st to 14th in 3 days and are now 6 points from top spot. 

Halifax Towns Sam Johnson pulled of an excellent save to deny striker Adam Rooney from close range but seconds later Rooney  grab his first goal of the night with a glancing heading from a pin point cross from Salford’s Number 7 Nick Haughton. 

Halifax who were unbeaten going into game came close to getting an equaliser in the first half. However Salford Goalkeeper Chris Neal made a rushing save after Town made a break down the middle. Neal later made a world class save just before half time. 

The Shaymen then got there goal in the 73rd coming from a low driven cross which winger and nearly Salford signing Matty Kosylo tape in from close range. 

“What a waste of money” sing Halifax fans after Adam Rooney loses the ball in the final third. Minutes later a cross from Salford left hand side drops to stand in captain to put Salford in the lead and secure the 3 points whilst also ending Halifax’s unbeaten start. 

Salford:

1.Neal, 2.Wiseman, 23. Pond, 6. Piergianni 3.Touray, 18.Whitehead, 8.Maynard, 7. Haughton, 10.Lloyd, 9. Rooney(C), 30. Gaffney

Substitutes: 12. Crocombe (GK) 4.Mafuta, 5.Hogan, 11.Walker, 21.Rodney.

Pictures from @salfordcityfc

Salford City Fc v FC Halifax Town Match Preview

Salford’s Rough Start 

Salford City FC take on high flyers FC Halifax Town at Moor Lane on Tuesday. Here is Joe Burns with his preview looking forward to the game 

After some ambitious pre season signings such as Adam Rooney, Danny Lloyd and Danny Whitehead. Salford City have gained one point from three games and currently sit 21st in the national League the only way is up for Salford and the 92. 

The first three games have shown that the pre season signings haven’t strengthen in the right areas with the flanks being a position that is a cause for concern. 

With Danny Lloyd and Tom Walker being the only out and out wingers within the club currently it’s hard to see where the club can strengthen when Tom Walker is now our second choice Left Back after Josh Askew has signed for Stockport on a month loan. 

The wingers is a focus due to our 60/70 minutes subs when they are tiring we don’t have any replacements from them and have to either change position or have players playing out of position and we become flat and have conceded 3 out of 5 goals after that. 

Halifax Town 14.08.18 

After losing to Halifax in May 2017 this will be our first meeting since that Sunny day in Halifax. 

Halifax have had a winning start to this season with three wins from three scoring seven and conceding  zero with new signing from Hull City Jonathan Edwards getting on the score sheet. 

With Salford struggling defensively it will be another hard game however if they can keep shape whilst defending and attacking with the pace and passing ability the midfield have they are more then capable of picking up some well needed points.

Kickoff is at 7:45pm 

Adults £10

Concession £5

Under 5s Free

Pictures from @salfordcityfc twitter 

Hull KR v Salford MATCH REPORT

SALFORD ROCK ROBINS WITH RUTHLESS DISPLAY 

Just 33 days had passed since the two sides had last met at Craven park but the out come was a complete opposite.

Both sides were coming into the match high on confidence after good results in there last games.

It was a cagey start with neither side wanting to show there hand. Ed Chamberlain missed an early penalty kick for Salford. 

Mistakes were a plenty as the game struggled to flow, the first points came from a 17th minute penalty goal from the boot of Chamberlain.

Neat work from Robert Lui and Mark Flanagan sent Niall Evalds racing away to score the games opening try. Rovers first real chance came from forward James Donaldson who stretched out to score but good cover defence from Salford just forced the knock on. 5 minutes later a measured kick from Danny McGuire found Craig Hall who touched down. Danny Tickle shanked what looked like a fairly straight forward conversion to leave Salford 4-6 in front.

Poor discipline and soft penalties hampered Salford's first half progress but what ever coach Ian Watson said at half time definitely sunk in with Salford playing a near perfect second half!

Jackson Hastings kicked a penalty to extend the lead to 4-8 before Lui intercepted and raced 70 yards to score under the posts! Salford's traveling away supporters were ecstatic. Hastings added the conversion to extend the lead to 4-14.

The Red Devils kicking game was superb. It was a night now for wet weather football and Watson's game plan was bearing fruit! 

Hastings with another teasing kick towards the in goal area on the greasy surface caused panic in the Rovers defence forcing a knock on. From the scrum Salford went for the jugular. Debutant Joey Lussick's hard work was rewarded as he scored from close range to put the match beyond the home side.

When Niall Evalds was tackled without the ball chasing yet another wonderful Salford kick Hastings played safe taking the two points on offer from the penalty 4-22.

Shaun Lunt grabbed a try 7 minutes from time but the last word went to Salford with Josh Wood wrong footing a tired Rovers defence. Ed Chamberlain's goal rounded off a fantastic, clinical display. 

On a night we're the Salford supporters lay a lot of expectations on Jackson Hastings, Robert Lui nipped under Hull Kr's radar to steal the show!

Salford now face Widnes next Saturday at The AJ Bell Stadium.  Hull Kr 10 Salford 28

Paul whiteside

Pictures by Steve McCormick 📸

middle 8s preview

Salford’s 11th place finish after the regular 23 round season means a tough 7 match campaign in The Qualifiers. In this preview we will have a look at the opposition the Red Devil’s will face along with some stats, history and a little bit of nostalgia thrown in.
Leeds, Hull kr, Salford,Widnes, Toronto, London, Toulouse and Halifax are the eight teams involved.
The top three after they’ve all played there respective 7 games will be back in Super League next season. 4th place will meet 5th place in the Million pound game. 4th place having home advantage. Leaving 6th 7th and 8th playing championship rugby in 2019.
It all sounds a bit ruthless and any Salford supporter who was at Craven Park on the 1st October 2016 will remember that match forever.


Hull Kingston Rovers
Head coach Tim Sheens
Rovers have been busy in recruitment recently with Joel Tomkins, Todd Carney, Ben Crooks and Craig Hall all moving to East Hull. There current form in Super League has been good with 5 wins and a draw in there last 9 regular season fixtures.
Players to watch out for will include young half back Chris Atkin, Craig Hall, full back Adam Quinlan and the evergreen Maurice Blair.
In the two meetings this season Salford beat Rovers 36-12 at the AJ Bell Stadium. The meeting at Craven Park a few weeks ago the Robins won convincingly 52-22.
Hull Kingston Rovers major honours include the 1980 Challenge cup.
They’ve also won the top flight league championship on five occasions




Leeds Rhinos
Head coach James Lowes
Director of rugby Kevin Sinfield
After being crowned Super League Champions in 2017 with a surprise victory over Castleford in the Grand Final 2018 hasn’t quite gone to plan. Losing Rob Burrow and Danny McGuire left a hole in the half back position and that seems to be the area they have struggled to fill and find any sort of rhythm.
Despite there poor season there are plenty of players to look out for in particular young stars Jack Walker, Ashton Goulding and Liam Sutcliffe. There is also plenty of experience in there squad and I wouldn’t be surprised if the bookmakers had them favourites to come top of the qualifiers table. On the other hand the way 12 man Salford exposed them a few weeks ago shows there are week spots that can be exploited.
Salford’s all round record home and away against Leeds is pretty dreadful. In the qualifiers the match will be played at Headingly. A solitary win for the Red Devils in 2009 is our only success there in the Super League era. Our previous victory there before that came in February 1977. If you want the last victory before that it was 1959! So three wins there in almost 60 years it’s fair to say it’s been quite a grave yard for Salford over the years. Records are always there to be broken though!
Leeds have been one of the most successful clubs of the summer era there honours include Super league Titles in 2004, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2011, 2012, 2015 and 2017.
World Club Champions 2005, 2008, 2012.
Challenge cup winners 1910, 1923, 1932, 1936, 1941, 1942, 1957, 1968, 1977, 1999, 2014 and 2015.


Widnes Vikings

Head coach Francis Cummins
2018 has been a real struggle for the Vikings and there supports. Long serving coach Dennis Betts was replaced by Francis Cummins but even this change hasn’t really seen an upturn in form. With just 3 wins from 23 matches in the regular season Widnes have lost 16 games on the spin. There last league victory came on the 22nd March when they beat Salford.
In the qualifiers the two sides will meet at the AJ Bell Stadium. Salford have had the upper hand in recent times with victories in the last five league meetings. Widnes’s last win at Salford came in a 2014 Challenge cup tie 20-30.
Widnes have secured plenty of major honours in years gone by.
Challenge cup winners on 7 occasions 1930, 1937, 1964, 1975, 1979, 1981 and 1984.
Top flight league champions in 77/78, 87/88 and 88/89.
Widnes were also crowned World Champions in 1989 after a memorable win over Canberra Raiders at Old Trafford.
Much like Salford it’s been a bit of a famine for the past few decades though.
Francis Cummins has strengthened his side ahead of The Qualifiers with the signing of Harrison Hansen from Leigh and Liam Finn from Wakefield.
They also have a good crop of youngsters in there side and it would be foolish to take them lightly.


Toronto Wolf Pack
Head coach Paul Rowley
After promotion from League one in 2017 Paul Rowley‘ Wolfpack have enjoyed another successful 2018 so far. Topping the Championship table after 23 rounds with just two defeats and a draw. Featherstone Rovers became the first side to beat Toronto on Canadian soil in round 23.
Salford have met Toronto just once. A challenge cup tie in 2017 at the AJ Bell Stadium. It was a bad tempered affair with Salford’s Justin Carney shown the red card in the first half. Ian Watson’s side showed plenty of heart with 12 men to come out 29-22 winners.
The Wolfpack are expected to go well in The qualifiers but the Super League opposition they face will be a big step up from the championship. They boast quite a few ex Salford players in there squad. Gareth O Brien made a high profile move earlier this season. Jake Emmitt, Olsi Krasniqi, Andrew Dixon and Adam Sidlow have all made appearances for the Red Devils.
Players to look out for will include half backs Ryan Brierley and Josh Mcrone. Liam Kay is a very quick winger who can finish well. There pack is also very aggressive. The Wolfpack have been criticised in the past for there near to the knuckle approach but in the grand scheme of things I think this will add to the excitement of the Qualifiers.


London Broncos
Head coach Danny Ward.
After a final regular season match at Barrow, The Broncos leap frogged Toulouse in to second place denying Salford supporters a trip to the south of France. Salford will now visit London’s Trailfinders Stadium in The qualifiers.
6-72 London won at Barrow, there the highest scoring team in the Championship with 907 points in there 23 games. Could they be the surprise package? Danny Ward has moulded a very competitive side with plenty of pace in the backs. Any side with Jarrod Sammut is going to be great to watch. The 31 year old Australian has a sensational try scoring ratio for The Broncos and when he’s on form he can be an absolute rugby league genius.
The last time Salford met London was in the Qualifiers of 2016. The Broncos pulled off a surprise 16-19 victory. Since there relegation from Super League at the end of 2014 London have challenged well in the Championship and will be tough to beat especially on there on ground.
London Broncos are yet to win a major Rugby League honour but they were Super League Runners up in 1997 and Challenge Cup runners up at Wembley in 1999. Under there previous name Fulham they won the 2nd Division title in 1982/83 season.

Toulouse Olympique
Head coach Sylvain Houles
Toulouse went unbeaten during the League 1 2016 season but lost in the Promotion Final to Rochdale Hornets. They entered the play-offs as a result and were successful, beating Barrow Raiders to win promotion to the Championship. Another solid season in 2017 saw them lift the Championship shield. 2018 has again been successful, London Broncos just pipping them on the final day of the regular season to gain 2nd place leaving the Frenchmen in 3rd on points difference.
They’ve got some exciting players in there squad including Jonathan Ford and William Barthau. There’s plenty of experience in there pack as well with Con Mika, Sam Rapira and Eddy Pettybourne.
Salford’s last meeting with Toulouse came at The Willows in 2003. A Challenge cup tie which Salford won 26-10.
What can we expect from the French side in the Qualifiers? There a very good home side so from a Salford point of view I am sure Ian Watson will be pleased to have them as a home game. After finishing third Toulouse will now face the prospect of four away games.


Halifax

Head coach Richard Marshall
Halifax have had another really consistent season in the championship. Young coach Richard Marshall has worked wonders on a low budget and boasts some really exciting young talent in his side. Former Halifax and Salford legend Colin Dixon’s grandson Chester Butler is making a real name for himself and will definitely be a player to watch. The vastly experienced Scott Murrell teams up in the halves with Ben Johnston and Fax are not short of pace with speedsters Kieran Moss, Will Sharp and Ben Heaton. Former Salford player Steve Tryer has become a real points machine in West Yorkshire and his now in his 6th season at Halifax.
Salford last met Halifax in a competitive fixture back in 2015 in the qualifiers. The Red Devils won away in a highly entertaining match 28-50. Niall Evalds grabbed a hat trick. Salford beat Halifax home and away in the 2008 Championship season.
Halifax were relegated from Rugby League’s top flight at the end of the 2003 season. The club have a long and proud history leaving there historical home at Thrum Hall at the end of 1997. Since then they have shared The Shay with football team Halifax Town.
The clubs major honours are Challenge cup winners 1903, 1904, 1931, 1939 and 1987. There 1939 success saw a 20-3 victory over Salford at Wembley.
Halifax’s last League title came in 1986.
Going in to the qualifiers Fax have nothing to lose being the lowest ranked side.
As well as welcoming Salford to the Shay they will also meet Leeds in a big Yorkshire derby clash.
Writing this as a Salford supporter I do wish Halifax all the best in the qualifiers. Not only for the Colin Dixon connection but they a traditional club in a real heart land of our sport.


With so much riding on these seven matches it promises to be a very exciting few months watching all the sides involved. Safe travels and enjoy the games.

Paul Whiteside.