DITD Hull KR v Salford Red Devils match report

After last weeks heroic display at St. Helens, another trip down the East Lancashire Road lay in store for Ian Watson’s Salford Red Devils.

After a long turn around the supporters were hoping to see a rejuvenated side and a fast start. They had to settle for the opposite. A sluggish opening with errors, poor play and penalties conceded putting Salford firmly on the back foot.

In the opening quarter both sides seemed to cancel each other out with the match becoming a some what scrappy affair.

Robins centre Kane Linnet powered through on Salford’s right edge to score the games opening try in the nineteenth minute. His wing man Ryan Shaw booted the conversion.

After some good work down the middle the Red Devils gained an attacking opportunity but with no one at acting half at the play the ball embarrassingly Hull kr regained possession. This allowed pressure to be built and with back to back penalties the two points on offer were taken to edge Rovers ahead to 0-8.

Things got worse for Salford when a speculative attacking kick caught them napping at the back. Craig Hall was on hand to take advantage touching down for a very simple score.

Moments after coming off the substitute bench huge forward Pauli Pauli added to Salford’s woes when his late challenge on Rovers scrum half Josh Drinkwater resulted in a sin bin from referee Ben Thaler. The Robins kept on building pressure looking to punish Salford even more. They were methodical and calculated, not taking to many risks in their play but Tim Sheens’s side didn’t need to. They were in complete control just before half time.

Salford hooker Joey Lussick grabbed his side a life line scoring one of his trade mark tries to send his team in with some hope. Krisnan Inu adding the goal kick, 6-14 at the break.

Attacking the famous Liverpool Kop in the second half Salford were in need of a famous Liverpool revival especially after Craig Hall capitalised on another howler. This time Derrell Olpherts failed to deal with a kick into the in goal area. The Robins full back touched down for another gift wrapped try to add to his first half present from the hapless Salford defence.

A dangerous tackle on Jackson Hastings sparked a mass brawl and this seemed to breath life in to The Red Devils. Huge forward Pauli Pauli smashed his way through the Rovers defence to score.

A super Salford try followed shortly after, a fantastic sequence of offloads keeping the ball alive thrilled The Anfield crowd. The ball travelled across the pitch right to left with Ken Sio squeezing in by the corner flag. Inu’s conversion attempt struck the post and came back out, 16-20.

The Red Devil’s were now playing with a renewed energy and enthusiasm. Sublime ball handling across the pitch again saw Sio finish superbly. The video referee was called upon to check but the try was given. The scores were level at 20-20 with just over ten minutes to go. Inu couldn’t convert the goal but the match was now anybody’s.

Salford’s poor discipline let them down conceding a penalty well within Ryan Shaw’s range. The Rovers winger didn’t need an invitation and nailed the conversion attempt to nudge his side back in front 22-20.

Salford failed to muster up the frantic finish required and the hooter sounded to round off a disappointing afternoon.

A much improved second half display but overall one that lacked any real fluidity or cohesion from Watson’s men. 

Speaking post match Watson didn’t hide his disappointment,

“When your completing in the first half at 57% your not giving yourself a chance at all. It’s a massive missed opportunity the question for us is our we good enough to earn a playoff spot at the moment we’re not good enough.”

Salford now have a week off for the Challenge cup before an away trip to Hull on Friday 7th June.

Salford 20 Hull Kingston Rovers 22.

Paul Whiteside.

Pictures by Steve McCormick 

DITD Hull KR v Salford Red Devils Magic Preview

Salford v Hull Kingston Rovers.

Salford’s first few adventures at the Magic Weekend saw some disappointing defeats. Two drubbings in Edinburgh against Warrington in 2007 and 2010 were followed by a shocking performance in Cardiff against Celtic Crusaders in 2011. 

I suppose their are pros and cons with the whole event but speaking as a Salford supporter I always treat the match as another two points the same as a regular season home or away match. It’s certainly a chance to play on a big stage in front of a sizeable crowd. For the past four years the Magic Weekend has been held in Newcastle which many fans have enjoyed. St James’s Park is right in the heart of the City Centre which added to the carnival atmosphere.

This year sees the weekend move to Anfield stadium in Liverpool.

After a thrilling encounter last weekend away at St Helens in a match that you will struggle to top for the rest of the season, certainly for shear excitement and end to end action. Agonisingly Ian Watson’s side came up just short but the amount of positives that can be taken from that match will surely stand The Red Devils in good stead for the rest of the campaign.

Salford have proved this year that when they get things right they can beat anyone and with the eyes of Rugby League on them this Sunday the players will want to impress. 

Super League Magic Weekend Record.

Won 4

Draws 0

Lost 7

2007, Salford 18  Warrington 50   Murrayfield, Edinburgh 

2009, Salford 16  Harlequins 24   Murrayfield, Edinburgh 

2010, Salford 16  Warrington 68   Murrayfield, Edinburgh 

2011, Salford 12  Celtic Crusaders 42  millennium stadium, Cardiff

2012, Salford 38  Huddersfield 34   Etihad Stadium, Manchester 

2013, Salford 28  Widnes 22  Etihad Stadium, Manchester 

2014, Salford 24  Widnes 30  Etihad Stadium, Manchester 

2015, Salford 16  Widnes 38 St James’s Park, Newcastle 

2016, Salford 18  Widnes 12  St James’s Park, Newcastle 

2017, Salford 36  Leigh 22  St James’s Park, Newcastle 

2018, Salford 12  Catalans Dragons 26 St James’s Park, Newcastle 

They played for both 

Here are a selection of players to have represented The Robins and The Red Devils,

Greg Austin, Colin Dixon, Greg Burke, Chris Charles, Michael Dobson, Sean Gleeson, Darrell Goulding, David Hodgson, Lee Jewitt, Justin Carney, Jordan Walne, Phil Joseph, Tommy Lee, Tyrone McCarthy, Craig Murdock, Cory Paterson, Gareth Price, Scott Taylor, Tony Puletua, Richard Smith, Iain Thornley, Kris Welham and Todd Carney.

A match to remember Sunday 27th May 2012.

Salford 38 Huddersfield 34.

After four straight miserable defeats at Magic this was a day to remember for Salford and their supporters. Long trips to Edinburgh and Cardiff had been huge let downs with heavy defeats. This match in 2012 was played a little closer to home at The Etihad Stadium, the home of Manchester City.

It was a lovely, warm and sunny afternoon with glorious temperatures, particularly at pitch side. 

Salford had gone six matches without a victory and went in to the match as under dogs. The Giants were a big, athletic team with plenty of power and pace in the backs. With talisman Danny Brough guiding them Huddersfield were a tough team to beat. 

Salford made the early running and Australian centre Joel Moon made that pressure count when he touched down following Jodie Broughton's unorthodox palm back of the ball. 

Kevin Brown and Luke George responded with tries for The Giants.

Salford then worked the ball from right to left through the halves and Luke Patten slipped the ball to Moon unopposed for his second score.

The Reds extended the lead with a nice try from centre Sean Gleason.

Speedster Broughton squeezed in for another Salford try just before the break to send Phil Veivers side in leading 16-22 at half time.

Leroy Cudjoe had a try chalked off by referee Tim Roby but this only seem to hand the momentum to Huddersfield. Two tries from the enormous Eorl Crabtree edged the Yorkshire side in to the lead.

Salford kept persevering and were rewarded with a try for their honest endeavour when Moon maintained his balance under pressure and offloaded to Broughton who raced in for his second to bring the scores within two as Holdsworth fluffed his conversion attempt.

Adam Sidlow powered over from a neat Stuart Howarth which saw the lead change hands in to Salford’s favour again. 

Huddersfield yet again showed their quality when a dummy half break from Jason Chan put Brough in under the posts and he stepped up to convert.

It was end to end nail biting action. The match balanced on a knife edge.

Salford's seventh try restored the lead yet again. Sidlow, who crossed for a second time to again open up the four-point gap with three minutes to play.

The big forward smashing his way to the line showing tremendous strength.

The Giants spurned late chances with Salford hanging on to win a super match 38-34.

The teams that day;

Huddersfield: Eden, McGillvary, Cudjoe, Wardle, George, Grix, Brough, Mason, Moore,Ferguson, Lawrence, Chan, Brown.

Replacements: Crabtree, Robinson, Fa'alogo, Faiumu.

Salford: Patten, Broughton, Moon, Gleeson, Williams, Holdsworth, Smith, Jewitt, Howarth, Sidlow, Ashurst, Nero, Wild.

Replacements: Owen, Anderson, Paleaaesina, McPherson.

Referee: Tim Roby 

Sunday’s match.

The two sides met just a few weeks ago in The Challenge Cup with Hull Kingston Rovers progressing to the Quarter Finals. Salford’s performance was poor particularly in the second half where a 16-6 lead was surrendered.

With London Broncos picking up a victory last weekend The Robins are dangerously hovering near the relegation zone. London, Leeds and Hull Kr all have eight points and with the Rhinos meeting the Broncos this very weekend, Super League could have a new team rooted to the foot of the table.

The two sides will kick off day two with the action getting under way at 1pm.

Victory for Salford puts them in real contention for a top half finish in the League table. With the Super eights from last season now a top five playoff only the most consistent sides will make the cut.

The Magic Weekend is a real feast of Rugby League and after last weekend’s Summer Bash proving a real success at Blackpool for The clubs in the Championship, The Super League now takes centre stage. 

Safe travels and enjoy the game everyone.

Paul Whiteside.

Pictures by Steve McCormick 

Sportszone Hull KR v Salford Red Devils MATCH REPORT magic weekend

After last weeks heroic display at St. Helens, another trip down the East Lancashire Road lay in store for Ian Watson’s Salford Red Devils.

After a long turn around the supporters were hoping to see a rejuvenated side and a fast start. They had to settle for the opposite. A sluggish opening with errors, poor play and penalties conceded putting Salford firmly on the back foot.

In the opening quarter both sides seemed to cancel each other out with the match becoming a some what scrappy affair.

Robins centre Kane Linnet powered through on Salford’s right edge to score the games opening try in the nineteenth minute. His wing man Ryan Shaw booted the conversion.

After some good work down the middle the Red Devils gained an attacking opportunity but with no one at acting half at the play the ball embarrassingly Hull kr regained possession. This allowed pressure to be built and with back to back penalties the two points on offer were taken to edge Rovers ahead to 0-8.

Things got worse for Salford when a speculative attacking kick caught them napping at the back. Craig Hall was on hand to take advantage touching down for a very simple score.

Moments after coming off the substitute bench huge forward Pauli Pauli added to Salford’s woes when his late challenge on Rovers scrum half Josh Drinkwater resulted in a sin bin from referee Ben Thaler. The Robins kept on building pressure looking to punish Salford even more. They were methodical and calculated, not taking to many risks in their play but Tim Sheens’s side didn’t need to. They were in complete control just before half time.

Salford hooker Joey Lussick grabbed his side a life line scoring one of his trade mark tries to send his team in with some hope. Krisnan Inu adding the goal kick, 6-14 at the break.

Attacking the famous Liverpool Kop in the second half Salford were in need of a famous Liverpool revival especially after Craig Hall capitalised on another howler. This time Derrell Olpherts failed to deal with a kick into the in goal area. The Robins full back touched down for another gift wrapped try to add to his first half present from the hapless Salford defence.

A dangerous tackle on Jackson Hastings sparked a mass brawl and this seemed to breath life in to The Red Devils. Huge forward Pauli Pauli smashed his way through the Rovers defence to score.

A super Salford try followed shortly after, a fantastic sequence of offloads keeping the ball alive thrilled The Anfield crowd. The ball travelled across the pitch right to left with Ken Sio squeezing in by the corner flag. Inu’s conversion attempt struck the post and came back out, 16-20.

The Red Devil’s were now playing with a renewed energy and enthusiasm. Sublime ball handling across the pitch again saw Sio finish superbly. The video referee was called upon to check but the try was given. The scores were level at 20-20 with just over ten minutes to go. Inu couldn’t convert the goal but the match was now anybody’s.

Salford’s poor discipline let them down conceding a penalty well within Ryan Shaw’s range. The Rovers winger didn’t need an invitation and nailed the conversion attempt to nudge his side back in front 22-20.

Salford failed to muster up the frantic finish required and the hooter sounded to round off a disappointing afternoon.

A much improved second half display but overall one that lacked any real fluidity or cohesion from Watson’s men. 

Speaking post match Watson didn’t hide his disappointment,

“When your completing in the first half at 57% your not giving yourself a chance at all. It’s a massive missed opportunity the question for us is our we good enough to earn a playoff spot at the moment we’re not good enough.”

Salford now have a week off for the Challenge cup before an away trip to Hull on Friday 7th June.

Salford 20 Hull Kingston Rovers 22.

Paul Whiteside.

Pictures by Steve McCormick 📸

Sportszone Hull Kr V Salford Red Devils Magic Weekend

Salford v Hull Kingston Rovers.

Salford’s first few adventures at the Magic Weekend saw some disappointing defeats. Two drubbings in Edinburgh against Warrington in 2007 and 2010 were followed by a shocking performance in Cardiff against Celtic Crusaders in 2011. 

I suppose their are pros and cons with the whole event but speaking as a Salford supporter I always treat the match as another two points the same as a regular season home or away match. It’s certainly a chance to play on a big stage in front of a sizeable crowd. For the past four years the Magic Weekend has been held in Newcastle which many fans have enjoyed. St James’s Park is right in the heart of the City Centre which added to the carnival atmosphere.

This year sees the weekend move to Anfield stadium in Liverpool.

After a thrilling encounter last weekend away at St Helens in a match that you will struggle to top for the rest of the season, certainly for shear excitement and end to end action. Agonisingly Ian Watson’s side came up just short but the amount of positives that can be taken from that match will surely stand The Red Devils in good stead for the rest of the campaign.

Salford have proved this year that when they get things right they can beat anyone and with the eyes of Rugby League on them this Sunday the players will want to impress. 

Super League Magic Weekend Record.

Won 4

Draws 0

Lost 7

2007, Salford 18  Warrington 50   Murrayfield, Edinburgh 

2009, Salford 16  Harlequins 24   Murrayfield, Edinburgh 

2010, Salford 16  Warrington 68   Murrayfield, Edinburgh 

2011, Salford 12  Celtic Crusaders 42  millennium stadium, Cardiff

2012, Salford 38  Huddersfield 34   Etihad Stadium, Manchester 

2013, Salford 28  Widnes 22  Etihad Stadium, Manchester 

2014, Salford 24  Widnes 30  Etihad Stadium, Manchester 

2015, Salford 16  Widnes 38 St James’s Park, Newcastle 

2016, Salford 18  Widnes 12  St James’s Park, Newcastle 

2017, Salford 36  Leigh 22  St James’s Park, Newcastle 

2018, Salford 12  Catalans Dragons 26 St James’s Park, Newcastle 

They played for both 

Here are a selection of players to have represented The Robins and The Red Devils,

Greg Austin, Colin Dixon, Greg Burke, Chris Charles, Michael Dobson, Sean Gleeson, Darrell Goulding, David Hodgson, Lee Jewitt, Justin Carney, Jordan Walne, Phil Joseph, Tommy Lee, Tyrone McCarthy, Craig Murdock, Cory Paterson, Gareth Price, Scott Taylor, Tony Puletua, Richard Smith, Iain Thornley, Kris Welham and Todd Carney.

A match to remember Sunday 27th May 2012.

Salford 38 Huddersfield 34.

After four straight miserable defeats at Magic this was a day to remember for Salford and their supporters. Long trips to Edinburgh and Cardiff had been huge let downs with heavy defeats. This match in 2012 was played a little closer to home at The Etihad Stadium, the home of Manchester City.

It was a lovely, warm and sunny afternoon with glorious temperatures, particularly at pitch side. 

Salford had gone six matches without a victory and went in to the match as under dogs. The Giants were a big, athletic team with plenty of power and pace in the backs. With talisman Danny Brough guiding them Huddersfield were a tough team to beat. 

Salford made the early running and Australian centre Joel Moon made that pressure count when he touched down following Jodie Broughton's unorthodox palm back of the ball. 

Kevin Brown and Luke George responded with tries for The Giants.

Salford then worked the ball from right to left through the halves and Luke Patten slipped the ball to Moon unopposed for his second score.

The Reds extended the lead with a nice try from centre Sean Gleason.

Speedster Broughton squeezed in for another Salford try just before the break to send Phil Veivers side in leading 16-22 at half time.

Leroy Cudjoe had a try chalked off by referee Tim Roby but this only seem to hand the momentum to Huddersfield. Two tries from the enormous Eorl Crabtree edged the Yorkshire side in to the lead.

Salford kept persevering and were rewarded with a try for their honest endeavour when Moon maintained his balance under pressure and offloaded to Broughton who raced in for his second to bring the scores within two as Holdsworth fluffed his conversion attempt.

Adam Sidlow powered over from a neat Stuart Howarth which saw the lead change hands in to Salford’s favour again. 

Huddersfield yet again showed their quality when a dummy half break from Jason Chan put Brough in under the posts and he stepped up to convert.

It was end to end nail biting action. The match balanced on a knife edge.

Salford's seventh try restored the lead yet again. Sidlow, who crossed for a second time to again open up the four-point gap with three minutes to play.

The big forward smashing his way to the line showing tremendous strength.

The Giants spurned late chances with Salford hanging on to win a super match 38-34.

The teams that day;

Huddersfield: Eden, McGillvary, Cudjoe, Wardle, George, Grix, Brough, Mason, Moore, Ferguson, Lawrence, Chan, Brown.

Replacements: Crabtree, Robinson, Fa'alogo, Faiumu.

Salford: Patten, Broughton, Moon, Gleeson, Williams, Holdsworth, Smith, Jewitt, Howarth, Sidlow, Ashurst, Nero, Wild.

Replacements: Owen, Anderson, Paleaaesina, McPherson.

Referee: Tim Roby 

Sunday’s match.

The two sides met just a few weeks ago in The Challenge Cup with Hull Kingston Rovers progressing to the Quarter Finals. Salford’s performance was poor particularly in the second half where a 16-6 lead was surrendered.

With London Broncos picking up a victory last weekend The Robins are dangerously hovering near the relegation zone. London, Leeds and Hull Kr all have eight points and with the Rhinos meeting the Broncos this very weekend, Super League could have a new team rooted to the foot of the table.

The two sides will kick off day two with the action getting under way at 1pm.

Victory for Salford puts them in real contention for a top half finish in the League table. With the Super eights from last season now a top five playoff only the most consistent sides will make the cut.

The Magic Weekend is a real feast of Rugby League and after last weekend’s Summer Bash proving a real success at Blackpool for The clubs in the Championship, The Super League now takes centre stage. 

Safe travels and enjoy the game everyone.

Paul Whiteside.

Pictures by Steve McCormick 

DITD St Helens v Salford Red Devils match report

A week is a long time in Rugby League. So much can change, teams can be on a huge high one week and seven days later can hit a real low. 

Salford know that only too well this season having posted some breath taking victories so far but struggled to back them up. Consistency is definitely the key in Super League.

You have to go back to January 1980 for Salford’s last victory at St Helens. Ian Watson’s men were definitely under dogs going in to this clash knowing that every player needed to be on their game. The travelling Salford supporters have already seen two very unexpected and convincing wins at Catalans and Warrington in recent months so could tonight see yet another Watson master piece?

Early Salford pressure was sniffed out by Saints  before a thrilling break from Regan Grace turned Salford’s defence inside out. Lachlan Coote backs up to score the opening try of the match.

Shortly after the lead was doubled when Theo Fages neat kick bounced kindly for Coote to touch down for his second try. Coote’s second conversion giving Saints a very strong start. 12-0 after ten minutes.

On the very next set another try follows. Fages drops his shoulder to ghost through the gap feeding Tommy Mackinson to score.

Robert Lui produced a wonderful forty twenty kick to give Salford some light relief and a try came through an unlikely scorer in Gil Dudson. 

Krisnan Inu converting 16-6.

Derrell Olpherts came close but his squeeze in the corner was denied by the video referee.

With Saints on the attack smelling blood Salford managed to hold their line. Inu with a very brave but sensational offload sent Niall Evalds racing eighty yards to score 16-12.

The hosts launch another torrid attack but Salford’s defence holds firm before they cross the try line at the other end to the delight of the travelling supporters. The video referee was again called upon and this time Olpherts is not denied. Inu converting to give Salford a half time lead after a remarkable comeback.

Both sides began to trade sets at the start of the second half and Salford were certainly holding their own. Huge back rower Pauli Pauli adding real size to the pack on his debut looking quite a useful acquisition to the squad.

The first points of the second half went to Salford, Robert Lui powering through the defence showing great strength, with Evalds in support . Inu’s conversation extending the lead to 16-24.

Salford’s confidence continued to grow with them trying offloads and neat play they perhaps wouldn’t in normal circumstances.

Inu came close after some individual brilliance but from the resulting scrum Lui grabbed a well deserved try. Thirty unanswered point from Ian Watson’s side giving them a 16-30 lead. Salford were great value for their lead as well. Playing some outstanding attacking rugby.

Saints continued to attack throwing everything they had at a Salford side who defended so bravely at times.

The hosts grabbed a huge slice of luck when Coote scored his hat trick and on the very next set Tommy Mackinson burst through showing all the power and pace a world class winger should possess to touch down. 26-30.

As this fantastic match reached a climax in the final few minutes Saints received a penalty which put them in a great attacking position. Salford and their supporters knew this was the set they had to defend. James Bentley crashed over but looked to have lost the ball. The video referee was called upon for a match deciding decision. Heart wrenching for Salford the decision went the way of St. Helens and the try was awarded to tie the scores at 30-30.

Coote kicked the goal to snatch the victory.

After a fantastic effort from his team Salford coach Ian Watson couldn’t hide his disappointment after the match but knew their were so many positives his side can take from the match. “That’s the effort and the attitude we need to have every week. We’ve got a lot of good players in that group and we just want them to believe”.

Salford head to Liverpool next Sunday for a clash with Hull Kingston Rovers at the magic weekend.

St. Helens 32 Salford 30.

Paul Whiteside.

Pictures by Steve McCormick 

DITD St Helens v Salford Red Devils Big match preview

St Helens v Salford 

Saturday 12th January 1980 seems a life time ago. So much has changed in sport and society in general but that’s how far you have to go back since Salford won this fixture. 

The Rubix cube had just made its debut at The International Toy Fair. New Romantics were taking over the pop charts and The British Steel Corporation had started a nationwide strike. 

Times were changing and so was the sport of Rugby League. Since Salford victory that day good performances in this fixture have certainly been hard to come by. 2007 and ten years later in 2017 were both heartbreaking for Salford and their supporters. Matty Smith kicking the decisive drop goals in both matches 27-26 and 25-24.

The 2017 match was a real bitter pill to swallow after Salford had lead 8-24 going in to the closing stages. It’s hard for me to say it but it was a remarkable comeback from a club that never seem to give in. “Never write off The Saints” as people say! 

Surly runs can’t go on forever can they? One things for certain Ian Watson’s men will have to be on the top of their game to have any chance in this fixture. This season has been a strange one so far for The Red Devils who have shown when then click in to gear they can beat anyone as we saw in Perpignan in March and at Warrington on Good Friday.

Super League away record.

St. Helens 22

Draws 0

Salford 0

1997  St. Helens 19 Salford 12

1998  St. Helens 48 Salford 12

1999  St. Helens 48 Salford 0

2000  St. Helens 46 Salford 22

2000  St. Helens 50 Salford 28

2001  St. Helens 66 Salford 16

2002  St. Helens 34 Salford 2

2004  St. Helens 40 Salford 4

2005  St. Helens 46 Salford 12

2006  St. Helens 28 Salford 6

2007  St. Helens 48 Salford 4

2007  St. Helens 27 Salford 26

2009  St. Helens 38 Salford 12

2010  St. Helens 58 Salford 34

2011  St. Helens 31 Salford 6 (played at Widnes)

2012  St. Helens 38 Salford 10

2013  St. Helens 14 Salford 10

2014  St. Helens 32 Salford 12

2015  St. Helens 32 Salford 12

2016  St. Helens 34 Salford 20

2017  St. Helens 25 Salford 24

2018  St. Helens 32 Salford 2

They played for both 

Over the years there has been so much player movement between the two clubs. The town of St Helens is a real hot bed of the game with some fantastic amateur set ups including Thatto Heath, Blackbrook and Clock Face. In the Super League era Matty Smith, Jordan Turner, Lama Tasi, Tommy Lee and Theo Fages have all moved to Saints from Salford. Willie Talu, Tony Puletua, Francis Meli, Mark Edmondson, Matty Ashurst, Andrew Dixon, Danny Arnold, Alan Hunte, Josh Jones, Bobbie Goulding, Lee Gaskell ,Paul Forber, Mark Lee, Jake Emmitt and Anthony Stewart to name a few in recent years to represent both sides.

Eric Prescott, Paul Groves, Paul Brownbill, John Mantle, Ken Gwilliam, George Nicholls and Darren Bloor played for both clubs in the pre super League era. The list could certainly go on as there are many more. Alex Murphy and Shaun McRae have coached both sides.

A match to remember 12th January 1980

St. Helens 17 Salford 18

After a successful period for Salford in the 1970s as the decade ended cracks were starting to appear. Players were moving on and some getting older but their was still some stalwarts at the club with Mike Coulman, Colin Dixon, Keith Fielding, Kenny Gill, Alan Grice, Steve Nash, Eric Prescott and Maurice Richards all on the playing roster. Between them they had tons of big game experience and hundreds of matches under their belts.

The 1979/80 season would go on to be modestly successful for Salford with a final league position of fourth. Top of the table at Christmas time and unbeaten in the league for the first few months of the season the supporters were dreaming of good times again. 

December 79 was a tough month and three defeats against three of the top sides of that period Bradford, Widnes and Hull Kr were a slight set back.

With young star hooker Paul O’Neil on international duty playing for Great Britain under 24s changes were made. Kevin Ashcroft came in at hooker for O’Neil and Sammy Turnbull played right centre. 

Scrum halves Dave Harris and Steve Nash were both injured so new signing John McAtee made his debut. 

Eric Prescott tackled everything putting in an all action display in the pack.

Mike Coulman ran the ball hard all afternoon against a very tough St. Helens pack that included terrific ball playing forward George Nicholls and big Powerful Eric Chisnall.

The game was nip and tuck all the way. Salford’s three tries came from Coulman, Prescott and Colin Whitfield. Goal kicking full back Steve Rule booted four conversions but the unlikely match winner was veteran hooker Kevin Ashcroft. His drop goal snatched it for Salford in what was a thrilling afternoon at Knowsley Road. 

The teams that day;

St. Helens, Brian Parkes, Les Jones, Clive Griffiths, Derek Noonan, Roy Mathias, 

Steve Peters, Johnny Smith, Mel James, Graham Liptrot, Eric Chisnall, Chris Seldon, Peter Gorley, George Nicholls. 

Subs, Denis Litherland and Roy Haggerty.

Salford, Steve Rule, Keith Fielding, Sam Turnbull, Colin Whitfield, Maurice Richards, Frank Wilson, John McAtee, Mike Coulman, Kevin Ashcroft, Tony Gourley, Chris Mcgreal, Stuart Williams, Eric Prescott.

Attendance, 4,111

Referee, Mr J.E. Smith. (Halifax) .

Friday’s match.

St. Helens have looked a step above the rest of the sides in Super League so far in 2019. Just one defeat in the south of France against Catalans Dragons is the only set back Justin Holbrook’s men have suffered. After a fantastic Easter Saints have eased up slightly in recent weeks. After a hard fought win at Hull Kr last Sunday’s Challenge Cup victory at Huddersfield was in the balance right until the final hooter.

One player who has really stood out for Saints in 2019 is star centre Kevin Naiqama. In his debut season he’s looked outstanding, with a superb off load and brilliant finishing ability. His lightning pace adds a little more quality to what is a frightening back line. Tommy Mackinson and Regan Grace are two of the most prolific wingers in the league.

The pack is quick, mobile and boasts plenty of size and aggression. 

Half backs Theo Fages and Johnny Lomax have been linking so well this season playing off that dominate pack. The whole team works like a well oiled machine. Efficient, reliable and relentless. St. Helens are going to take some stopping.

Salford’s defeat in The Challenge Cup last Saturday hit the supporters, Staff and players hard. A really disappointing performance, particularly in the second half were they had no answer to Hull Kingston Rovers dominance.

With Salford’s squad being a small one their isn’t many changes Ian Watson can make but it will be interesting to see the 19 man squad later in the week.

Watson continues to punch above his weight with really limited resources. He certainly has plenty to deal with but nothing seems to faze him. Jansin Turgut left the club last week under a cloud leaving the squad another man lighter.

With lots of rumours of players moving on next year and speculation here there and everywhere a positive performance and result on Friday would be very welcome.

Safe travels and enjoy the game everyone.

Paul Whiteside.

Pictures by Steve McCormick 

St Helens v Salford Red Devils Match report

A week is a long time in Rugby League. So much can change, teams can be on a huge high one week and seven days later can hit a real low. 

Salford know that only too well this season having posted some breath taking victories so far but struggled to back them up. Consistency is definitely the key in Super League.

You have to go back to January 1980 for Salford’s last victory at St Helens. Ian Watson’s men were definitely under dogs going in to this clash knowing that every player needed to be on their game. The travelling Salford supporters have already seen two very unexpected and convincing wins at Catalans and Warrington in recent months so could tonight see yet another Watson master piece?

Early Salford pressure was sniffed out by Saints  before a thrilling break from Regan Grace turned Salford’s defence inside out. Lachlan Coote backs up to score the opening try of the match.

Shortly after the lead was doubled when Theo Fages neat kick bounced kindly for Coote to touch down for his second try. Coote’s second conversion giving Saints a very strong start. 12-0 after ten minutes.

On the very next set another try follows. Fages drops his shoulder to ghost through the gap feeding Tommy Mackinson to score.

Robert Lui produced a wonderful forty twenty kick to give Salford some light relief and a try came through an unlikely scorer in Gil Dudson. 

Krisnan Inu converting 16-6.

Derrell Olpherts came close but his squeeze in the corner was denied by the video referee.

With Saints on the attack smelling blood Salford managed to hold their line. Inu with a very brave but sensational offload sent Niall Evalds racing eighty yards to score 16-12.

The hosts launch another torrid attack but Salford’s defence holds firm before they cross the try line at the other end to the delight of the travelling supporters. The video referee was again called upon and this time Olpherts is not denied. Inu converting to give Salford a half time lead after a remarkable comeback.

Both sides began to trade sets at the start of the second half and Salford were certainly holding their own. Huge back rower Pauli Pauli adding real size to the pack on his debut looking quite a useful acquisition to the squad.

The first points of the second half went to Salford, Robert Lui powering through the defence showing great strength, with Evalds in support . Inu’s conversation extending the lead to 16-24.

Salford’s confidence continued to grow with them trying offloads and neat play they perhaps wouldn’t in normal circumstances.

Inu came close after some individual brilliance but from the resulting scrum Lui grabbed a well deserved try. Thirty unanswered point from Ian Watson’s side giving them a 16-30 lead. Salford were great value for their lead as well. Playing some outstanding attacking rugby.

Saints continued to attack throwing everything they had at a Salford side who defended so bravely at times.

The hosts grabbed a huge slice of luck when Coote scored his hat trick and on the very next set Tommy Mackinson burst through showing all the power and pace a world class winger should possess to touch down. 26-30.

As this fantastic match reached a climax in the final few minutes Saints received a penalty which put them in a great attacking position. Salford and their supporters knew this was the set they had to defend. James Bentley crashed over but looked to have lost the ball. The video referee was called upon for a match deciding decision. Heart wrenching for Salford the decision went the way of St. Helens and the try was awarded to tie the scores at 30-30.

Coote kicked the goal to snatch the victory.

After a fantastic effort from his team Salford coach Ian Watson couldn’t hide his disappointment after the match but knew their were so many positives his side can take from the match. “That’s the effort and the attitude we need to have every week. We’ve got a lot of good players in that group and we just want them to believe”.

Salford head to Liverpool next Sunday for a clash with Hull Kingston Rovers at the magic weekend.

St. Helens 32 Salford 30.

Paul Whiteside.

Pictures by Steve McCormick 

St Helens v Salford Red Devils Big match preview

St Helens v Salford 

Saturday 12th January 1980 seems a life time ago. So much has changed in sport and society in general but that’s how far you have to go back since Salford won this fixture. 

The Rubix cube had just made its debut at The International Toy Fair. New Romantics were taking over the pop charts and The British Steel Corporation had started a nationwide strike. Times were changing and so was the sport of Rugby League. Since Salford victory that day good performances in this fixture have certainly been hard to come by. 2007 and ten years later in 2017 were both heartbreaking for Salford and their supporters. Matty Smith kicking the decisive drop goals in both matches 27-26 and 25-24.

The 2017 match was a real bitter pill to swallow after Salford had lead 8-24 going in to the closing stages. It’s hard for me to say it but it was a remarkable comeback from a club that never seem to give in. “Never write off The Saints” as people say! 

Surly runs can’t go on forever can they? One things for certain Ian Watson’s men will have to be on the top of their game to have any chance in this fixture. This season has been a strange one so far for The Red Devils who have shown when then click in to gear they can beat anyone as we saw in Perpignan in March and at Warrington on Good Friday.

Super League away record.

St. Helens 22

Draws 0

Salford 0

1997  St. Helens 19 Salford 12

1998  St. Helens 48 Salford 12

1999  St. Helens 48 Salford 0

2000  St. Helens 46 Salford 22

2000  St. Helens 50 Salford 28

2001  St. Helens 66 Salford 16

2002  St. Helens 34 Salford 2

2004  St. Helens 40 Salford 4

2005  St. Helens 46 Salford 12

2006  St. Helens 28 Salford 6

2007  St. Helens 48 Salford 4

2007  St. Helens 27 Salford 26

2009  St. Helens 38 Salford 12

2010  St. Helens 58 Salford 34

2011  St. Helens 31 Salford 6 (played at Widnes)

2012  St. Helens 38 Salford 10

2013  St. Helens 14 Salford 10

2014  St. Helens 32 Salford 12

2015  St. Helens 32 Salford 12

2016  St. Helens 34 Salford 20

2017  St. Helens 25 Salford 24

2018  St. Helens 32 Salford 2

They played for both 

Over the years there has been so much player movement between the two clubs. The town of St Helens is a real hot bed of the game with some fantastic amateur set ups including Thatto Heath, Blackbrook and Clock Face. In the Super League era Matty Smith, Jordan Turner, Lama Tasi, Tommy Lee and Theo Fages have all moved to Saints from Salford. Willie Talu, Tony Puletua, Francis Meli, Mark Edmondson, Matty Ashurst, Andrew Dixon, Danny Arnold, Alan Hunte, Josh Jones, Bobbie Goulding, Lee Gaskell ,Paul Forber, Mark Lee, Jake Emmitt and Anthony Stewart to name a few in recent years to represent both sides.

Eric Prescott, Paul Groves, Paul Brownbill, John Mantle, Ken Gwilliam, George Nicholls and Darren Bloor played for both clubs in the pre super League era. The list could certainly go on as there are many more. Alex Murphy and Shaun McRae have coached both sides.

A match to remember 12th January 1980

St. Helens 17 Salford 18

After a successful period for Salford in the 1970s as the decade ended cracks were starting to appear. Players were moving on and some getting older but their was still some stalwarts at the club with Mike Coulman, Colin Dixon, Keith Fielding, Kenny Gill, Alan Grice, Steve Nash, Eric Prescott and Maurice Richards all on the playing roster. Between them they had tons of big game experience and hundreds of matches under their belts.

The 1979/80 season would go on to be modestly successful for Salford with a final league position of fourth. Top of the table at Christmas time and unbeaten in the league for the first few months of the season the supporters were dreaming of good times again. 

December 79 was a tough month and three defeats against three of the top sides of that period Bradford, Widnes and Hull Kr were a slight set back.

With young star hooker Paul O’Neil on international duty playing for Great Britain under 24s changes were made. Kevin Ashcroft came in at hooker for O’Neil and Sammy Turnbull played right centre. 

Scrum halves Dave Harris and Steve Nash were both injured so new signing John McAtee made his debut. 

Eric Prescott tackled everything putting in an all action display in the pack.

Mike Coulman ran the ball hard all afternoon against a very tough St. Helens pack that included terrific ball playing forward George Nicholls and big Powerful Eric Chisnall.

The game was nip and tuck all the way. Salford’s three tries came from Coulman, Prescott and Colin Whitfield. Goal kicking full back Steve Rule booted four conversions but the unlikely match winner was veteran hooker Kevin Ashcroft. His drop goal snatched it for Salford in what was a thrilling afternoon at Knowsley Road. 

The teams that day;

St. Helens, Brian Parkes, Les Jones, Clive Griffiths, Derek Noonan, Roy Mathias, 

Steve Peters, Johnny Smith, Mel James, Graham Liptrot, Eric Chisnall, Chris Seldon, Peter Gorley, George Nicholls. 

Subs, Denis Litherland and Roy Haggerty.

Salford, Steve Rule, Keith Fielding, Sam Turnbull, Colin Whitfield, Maurice Richards, Frank Wilson, John McAtee, Mike Coulman, Kevin Ashcroft, Tony Gourley, Chris Mcgreal, Stuart Williams, Eric Prescott.

Attendance, 4,111

Referee, Mr J.E. Smith. (Halifax) .

Friday’s match.

St. Helens have looked a step above the rest of the sides in Super League so far in 2019. Just one defeat in the south of France against Catalans Dragons is the only set back Justin Holbrook’s men have suffered. 

After a fantastic Easter Saints have eased up slightly in recent weeks. After a hard fought win at Hull Kr last Sunday’s Challenge Cup victory at Huddersfield was in the balance right until the final hooter.

One player who has really stood out for Saints in 2019 is star centre Kevin Naiqama. In his debut season he’s looked outstanding, with a superb off load and brilliant finishing ability. His lightning pace adds a little more quality to what is a frightening back line. Tommy Mackinson and Regan Grace are two of the most prolific wingers in the league.

The pack is quick, mobile and boasts plenty of size and aggression. 

Half backs Theo Fages and Johnny Lomax have been linking so well this season playing off that dominate pack. The whole team works like a well oiled machine. Efficient, reliable and relentless. St. Helens are going to take some stopping.

Salford’s defeat in The Challenge Cup last Saturday hit the supporters, Staff and players hard. A really disappointing performance, particularly in the second half were they had no answer to Hull Kingston Rovers dominance.

With Salford’s squad being a small one their isn’t many changes Ian Watson can make but it will be interesting to see the 19 man squad later in the week.

Watson continues to punch above his weight with really limited resources. He certainly has plenty to deal with but nothing seems to faze him. Jansin Turgut left the club last week under a cloud leaving the squad another man lighter.

With lots of rumours of players moving on next year and speculation here there and everywhere a positive performance and result on Friday would be very welcome.

Safe travels and enjoy the game everyone.

Paul Whiteside.

Pictures by Steve McCormick 

SALFORD V HULL KR sportszone match report

Salford v Hull KR sportszone preview

The Challenge Cup, The Holy Grail of Rugby League I like to call it. So many memories of great players gracing Wembley over the years. Legends have been made in some fantastic finals. As supporters of Salford we have waited longer than most to watch our side walk out on the hallowed turf.

It’s been 50 years since our last visit to the National Stadium. A lot has changed not only in rugby league but in general everyday life since 1969. 

Those players that walked out with chairman Brian Snape that day will always be remembered. Although we came up short against Castleford, Salford RLFC were definitely on the cusp of glory.

It’s fair to see we’ve had to be very patient as supporters. The other eleven Super League teams have all played at Wembley in a final since our visit along with  Championship sides, Sheffield (1998), Leigh (1971), Bradford (2003), Featherstone (1983), Halifax (1988) and Widnes (1993).

Salford have certainly come close with defeats in the Semi finals of 1988,1997 and who could forget the heartbreaking defeat against Sheffield Eagles in 1998. Our exciting cup run of 2017 also ended in semi final defeat to Wigan.

Currently lying in sixth place in The Super League table, Ian Watson’s side with a small squad have continued to punch above their weight whilst competing well in 2019. The team spirit in this squad has definitely got what it takes and with a bit of luck the dream of Wembley could become a reality.

It means so much to the supporters and this has rubbed off on the players.

Hull Kingston Rovers have struggled to find any sort of consistency so far this season. Having made a number of high profile signings coach Tim Sheens will be hoping a cup run can kick start The Robins stalling season.

Rovers last appearance at Wembley wasn’t so long ago in 2015. A 50-0 hammering off Leeds Rhinos perhaps a day to forget. Beaten finalists in 1981 and 1986, the late Roger Millward guided Hull kr to glory in 1980 beating city rivals Hull 10-5 in a memorable clash.

Memorable Cup Ties From Yesteryear.

30th December 1972  Hull kr 13 Salford 15. John player Trophy semi final.

3rd December 1974  Salford 27 Hull kr 10.  BBC floodlit Trophy semi final.

15th March 1981  Hull kr 18 Salford 9.  Challenge cup round three.

28th February 2003 Hull kr 2 Salford 12. Challenge cup round five.

20th May 2011  Salford 0 Hull kr 25. Challenge cup round five.

A match to remember Salford 

Hull Kr 2 Salford 12 Challenge cup 2003.

A dark, cold and wet February night in East Hull seemed a long way from the razzmatazz of summer rugby. With driving rain and the wind blowing a gale from the North Sea close by this was always going to be a tricky tie. 

The pitch started to cut up early with mud that it was hard to tell the two sides apart. 

It wasn’t a night for fancy off loads and miracle plays but one for honest toil and endeavour. Karl Harrison’s side of 2003 had plenty of that but also had a steely determination and professionalism. I suppose some might say an edge to the way they played and this become more evident as this season progressed.

Despite the low score their was plenty of excitement. Alan Hunte and Stuart Littler crossing for tries which Gavin Clinch converted. The Robins only points coming from a Lynton Stott penalty goal.

It was becoming a really exciting cup run for the City Reds after victories at home to feisty French side Toulouse and on the road in Cumbria at Barrow.

The 2-12 victory at Craven Park set up a home quarter final with St. Helens.

The teams that night were;

Hull Kr,

Poucher, Pinkney, Stott, Farrell, Blanchard, Parker, Murdock, Wilson, Pickering, Bovill, Sullivan, Aston, Smith.

Subs, Walker, Cochrane, Andrews and Fletcher.

Salford City Reds,

Flowers, Platt, Littler, Hunte, Arnold, Beverley, Clinch, Baynes, Alker, Coley, Baldwin, Lowe, Charles.

Subs, P.Highton, D. Highton, Haggerty and Gorski.

Referee, Richard Silverwood.

Attendance, 2,533

They played for both.

Here are a selection of players to have represented The Robins and The Red Devils,

Greg Austin, Colin Dixon, Greg Burke, Chris Charles, Michael Dobson, Sean Gleeson, Darrell Goulding, David Hodgson, Lee Jewitt, Justin Carney, Jordan Walne, Phil Joseph, Tommy Lee, Tyrone McCarthy, Craig Murdock, Cory Paterson, Gareth Price, Scott Taylor, Tony Puletua, Richard Smith, Iain Thornley, Kris Welham and Todd Carney.

Saturday’s match.

After consecutive victories over London Broncos and Leeds Rhinos, Salford have grown in confidence on the back of a very positive Easter. In recent weeks Robert Lui’s partnership with fellow halfback Jackson Hastings has really blossomed. Josh Jones and George Griffin continue to impress with their gruelling eighty minute performances as well as a pack that has dominated of late.

The Robins have had a disappointing Easter conceding 50 points on Good Friday and Easter Monday against Hull and Warrington respectively. Battling displays against Leeds at Headingley and at home to St. Helens 

Last weekend has given Tim Sheens and his side something to build on.

The two side have met once this season and it was a thrilling encounter. Salford stormed back in that match to take the points with a 22-24 victory.

Whoever gets the win on Saturday will be in the last eight of the competition, The Quarter Finals. 

With the sixth round draw throwing up some mouth watering ties their could be a few big teams put out of the competition this weekend.

Momentum is the name of the game for Salford Red Devils both on and off the field. Another good cup run will certainly grab people’s attention and perhaps a Cup Final could propel Salford to the next level.

This match looks a tremendous prospect with added spice of player connections at both clubs. The Red Devils could potentially have Adam Walker, Tyrone McCarthy, Ken Sio and Kris Welham in their squad who all represented Hull kr at Wembley in 2015.

The Robins have Weller Hauraki, Ryan Lannon, Tommy Lee and Lee Jewitt on their playing Roster for 2019.

Josh Drinkwater and Danny McGuire have proved a more than useful half back combination on their day and the pace in the back line from Craig Hall, Ryan Shaw, Ben Crooks and Will Oakes amongst others will have to be dealt with. 

The forward battle should be very exciting and could be were the match is won and lost. Joel Tomkins can be a real handful and hookers Danny Addy and Shaun Lunt are both very clever around the ruck with good ball distribution.

 Another match not to be missed.

Safe travels and enjoy the game everyone.

Paul Whiteside.

Pictures by Steve McCormick 

Salford Red Devils v Hull KR PREVIEW SPORTSZONE

For both sides the challenge cup plays a pivotal part in their history. The Robins  solitary cup final victory came in 1980. For Salford it’s now over 81 years since Lance Todd’s famous Red Devil’s side of the 1930’s lifted the prestigious trophy. Both sets of supporters were dreaming of Wembley with victory this afternoon securing a place in the last eight. Josh Jones pulled out in the captains run with coach Ian Watson moving Jake Bibby into the second row paving the way for Ken Sio to return on the wing. 

The early possession and territory was dominated by the home side. Struggling to find a consistent rhythm errors crept in to Salford’s play. Rovers scored the first points from a real sucker punch try. Kane Linnet going over from close range with Ryan Shaw converting. Shortly after Salford hit back with a well worked try from powerful centre Krisnan Inu.  Salford took the lead after some good work from Greg Burke and Inu sending fullback Niall Evalds into score, again Inu failed to convert however Salford held a slender 8-6 advantage. 

Six minutes before the break the best move of the half saw a thrilling Red Devils attack. Wonderful ball movement and support play before Kris Welham raced in to score against his former club.

The first points of the second half came from an Inu penalty goal. This nudged Salford into a ten point lead 16-6.

Hull Kr needed a response to gain any sort of foothold in the game. Robert Lui kicked out on the full to give The Robins a life line and when back to back sets were strung together Josh Drinkwater darted in from a set scrum to reduce the arrears. 

At 16-12 Salford cautiously decided to kick another penalty goal when perhaps turning the screw on The Rovers defence might have been a wiser option. 18-12 was as good as it got for Watson’s men as the visitors grabbed the game by the scruff of the neck.

Danny McGuire and Craig Hall created a try out of nothing for Taioalo  Vaivai.

The travelling supporters held their breath as Ryan Shaw calmly slotted the conversion off the touch line to tie the scores at 18-18.

McGuire and Drinkwater were now bossing the game and dictating the play on their terms. With seventeen minutes remaining Salford’s defence was caught napping once again. This time hooker Danny Addy scooted over from dummy half. 

Trailing by six points entering the final ten minutes Salford began to show signs of urgency but this hampered their progress as they couldn’t find the composure to post any points. 

Receiving a penalty within range, Rovers made the obvious choice to take the two points to establish an eight point lead with time running out.

The final say went to former Red Devil Weller Hauraki who coasted over to score after some powderpuff Salford defence.

Perhaps Salford’s worse display of the season but Hull Kr deserved plenty of credit for a very controlled and potent second half performance.

The Holy Grail of the Challenge Cup is lost for at least another twelve months leaving coach Ian Watson bitterly disappointed with his team after the match.

A week can be a long time in Rugby League. After last weekend’s victory over Leeds on top of a very good Easter programme crashing out of the cup is a real sickener for the supporters and players.

Things don’t get any easier for Salford with a trip to St Helens next Friday in a fixture that’s not seen any success since January 1980.

Salford 18 Hull kr 32.

Paul Whiteside.

Pictures by Steve McCormick 

Salford v Hull KR DITD preview challenge cup

The Challenge Cup, The Holy Grail of Rugby League I like to call it. So many memories of great players gracing Wembley over the years. Legends have been made in some fantastic finals. As supporters of Salford we have waited longer than most to watch our side walk out on the hallowed turf.

It’s been 50 years since our last visit to the National Stadium. A lot has changed not only in rugby league but in general everyday life since 1969. 

Those players that walked out with chairman Brian Snape that day will always be remembered. Although we came up short against Castleford, Salford RLFC were definitely on the cusp of glory.

It’s fair to see we’ve had to be very patient as supporters. The other eleven Super League teams have all played at Wembley in a final since our visit along with  Championship sides, Sheffield (1998), Leigh (1971), Bradford (2003), Featherstone (1983), Halifax (1988) and Widnes (1993).

Salford have certainly come close with defeats in the Semi finals of 1988,1997 and who could forget the heartbreaking defeat against Sheffield Eagles in 1998. Our exciting cup run of 2017 also ended in semi final defeat to Wigan.

Currently lying in sixth place in The Super League table, Ian Watson’s side with a small squad have continued to punch above their weight whilst competing well in 2019. The team spirit in this squad has definitely got what it takes and with a bit of luck the dream of Wembley could become a reality.

It means so much to the supporters and this has rubbed off on the players.

Hull Kingston Rovers have struggled to find any sort of consistency so far this season. Having made a number of high profile signings coach Tim Sheens will be hoping a cup run can kick start The Robins stalling season.

Rovers last appearance at Wembley wasn’t so long ago in 2015. A 50-0 hammering off Leeds Rhinos perhaps a day to forget. Beaten finalists in 1981 and 1986, the late Roger Millward guided Hull kr to glory in 1980 beating city rivals Hull 10-5 in a memorable clash.

Memorable Cup Ties From Yesteryear.

30th December 1972  Hull kr 13 Salford 15. John player Trophy semi final.

3rd December 1974  Salford 27 Hull kr 10.  BBC floodlit Trophy semi final.

15th March 1981  Hull kr 18 Salford 9.  Challenge cup round three.

28th February 2003 Hull kr 2 Salford 12. Challenge cup round five.

20th May 2011  Salford 0 Hull kr 25. Challenge cup round five.

A match to remember Salford 

Hull Kr 2 Salford 12 Challenge cup 2003.

A dark, cold and wet February night in East Hull seemed a long way from the razzmatazz of summer rugby. With driving rain and the wind blowing a gale from the North Sea close by this was always going to be a tricky tie. 

The pitch started to cut up early with mud that it was hard to tell the two sides apart. 

It wasn’t a night for fancy off loads and miracle plays but one for honest toil and endeavour. Karl Harrison’s side of 2003 had plenty of that but also had a steely determination and professionalism. I suppose some might say an edge to the way they played and this become more evident as this season progressed.

Despite the low score their was plenty of excitement. Alan Hunte and Stuart Littler crossing for tries which Gavin Clinch converted. The Robins only points coming from a Lynton Stott penalty goal.

It was becoming a really exciting cup run for the City Reds after victories at home to feisty French side Toulouse and on the road in Cumbria at Barrow.

The 2-12 victory at Craven Park set up a home quarter final with St. Helens.

The teams that night were;

Hull Kr,

Poucher, Pinkney, Stott, Farrell, Blanchard, Parker, Murdock, Wilson, Pickering, Bovill, Sullivan, Aston, Smith.

Subs, Walker, Cochrane, Andrews and Fletcher.

Salford City Reds,

Flowers, Platt, Littler, Hunte, Arnold, Beverley, Clinch, Baynes, Alker, Coley, Baldwin, Lowe, Charles.

Subs, P.Highton, D. Highton, Haggerty and Gorski.

Referee, Richard Silverwood.

Attendance, 2,533

They played for both.

Here are a selection of players to have represented The Robins and The Red Devils,

Greg Austin, Colin Dixon, Greg Burke, Chris Charles, Michael Dobson, Sean Gleeson, Darrell Goulding, David Hodgson, Lee Jewitt, Justin Carney, Jordan Walne, Phil Joseph, Tommy Lee, Tyrone McCarthy, Craig Murdock, Cory Paterson, Gareth Price, Scott Taylor, Tony Puletua, Richard Smith, Iain Thornley, Kris Welham and Todd Carney.

Saturday’s match.

After consecutive victories over London Broncos and Leeds Rhinos, Salford have grown in confidence on the back of a very positive Easter. In recent weeks Robert Lui’s partnership with fellow halfback Jackson Hastings has really blossomed. Josh Jones and George Griffin continue to impress with their gruelling eighty minute performances as well as a pack that has dominated of late.

The Robins have had a disappointing Easter conceding 50 points on Good Friday and Easter Monday against Hull and Warrington respectively. Battling displays against Leeds at Headingley and at home to St. Helens 

last weekend has given Tim Sheens and his side something to build on.

The two side have met once this season and it was a thrilling encounter. Salford stormed back in that match to take the points with a 22-24 victory.

Whoever gets the win on Saturday will be in the last eight of the competition, The Quarter Finals. 

With the sixth round draw throwing up some mouth watering ties their could be a few big teams put out of the competition this weekend.

Momentum is the name of the game for Salford Red Devils both on and off the field. Another good cup run will certainly grab people’s attention and perhaps a Cup Final could propel Salford to the next level.

This match looks a tremendous prospect with added spice of player connections at both clubs. The Red Devils could potentially have Adam Walker, Tyrone McCarthy, Ken Sio and Kris Welham in their squad who all represented Hull kr at Wembley in 2015.

The Robins have Weller Hauraki, Ryan Lannon, Tommy Lee and Lee Jewitt on their playing Roster for 2019.

Josh Drinkwater and Danny McGuire have proved a more than useful half back combination on their day and the pace in the back line from Craig Hall, Ryan Shaw, Ben Crooks and Will Oakes amongst others will have to be dealt with. 

The forward battle should be very exciting and could be were the match is won and lost. Joel Tomkins can be a real handful and hookers Danny Addy and Shaun Lunt are both very clever around the ruck with good ball distribution.

 Another match not to be missed.

Safe travels and enjoy the game everyone.

Paul Whiteside.

Pictures by Steve McCormick 

Salford Red Devils v Leeds Sportszone match report

Salford got off to the perfect possible start as they looked to make it back to back wins. Robert Lui’s high kick caused panic in the Leeds defence before Lee Mossop touched down for the second week running. 

The Red Devils defence was rarely tested in the early stages as they dictated the play. 

The lead was doubled after good work and pressure forced a Leeds drop out.

Adam Walker powered over from close range.

By now Leeds were back peddling as Salford attacked at will and seemed totally in control.

Krisnan Inu’s slick off load sent Jake Bibby racing down the touch line. The young winger was stopped short as The Rhinos desperately clung on. 

Despite Salford’s dominance in attack their defence was solid when it had to be. 

When Derrell Olpherts knocked on ten yards out from The Red Devils try line Leeds finally got a sniff of some points. Mikolaj Oledzki scored to hand the visitors a life line right on the half time hooter.

Joey Lussick scored for the fourth game in a row with his typical trademark scoot from dummy. The young Australian hooker showing tremendous strength to grab a vital try after just three minutes of the second half to give Ian Watson’s men some breathing space. 

Salford were now finding their rhythm with attacks flowing and passes sticking. 

Lui and Niall Evalds kept the ball alive before the unstoppable Adam Walker had the home supporters delirious as he smashed his way through the heart of the Rhinos defence to score his second try. Walker seems to have found his home at Salford as his performances continue to impress and he is definitely enjoying his rugby playing with a huge smile on his face and bags of aggression.

An outstanding pack performance lay the platform, with Lee Mossop and Gil Dudson making the hard yards along with Walker and Daniel Murray coming off the bench to inflict yet more damage. Josh Jones and George Griffin yet again produced all action eighty minute displays working tirelessly in attack and defence. Griffin playing like the bionic man hacked through a loose Leeds pass. His cool head allowing Salford to gain another attacking opportunity with a set of six in prime position. Lui did the damage darting over for a well deserved try. Inu with the conversion 28-6.

The Rhinos scored two tries in the closing stages from lightning quick youngster Harry Newman and winger Ash Handley. 

In all fairness this was a game that Salford were on top in from minute one. A vital two points in the race for the top five, Ian Watson’s side continue to punch above their weight and are gaining quite a few admirers along the way.

Speaking after the match a delighted Ian Watson praised his team efforts.

“It’s a great win for us, Leeds are a good team, they’ve had some changes but they’ve got some great players in their squad. We need to really kick on from here now and build on the first half of the season.”

The win takes Salford to sixth place in the League table. Next Saturday Hull Kingston Rovers visit The AJ Bell Stadium in a last sixteen Challenge cup tie. Another match that’s one not to miss. 

Not many Salford coaches over the last 50 years have beaten Leeds three times but Ian Watson has now joined that club. Tonight is the first time we have beaten Leeds in consecutive seasons since the 1970s.

Salford 28 Leeds 16

Paul Whiteside.

Pictures by Steve McCormick 

Salford Red Devils v Leeds Sportszone preview

Salford v Leeds Match Preview.

Speaking after last Saturday’s win at London, Salford coach Ian Watson stated “we owe them one” when referring to Friday’s clash with Leeds. The two sides have met 22 times in the summer era at Salford with Leeds claiming 20 victories to The Red Devils 2. When the two sides met at The AJ Bell Stadium earlier this season The struggling Rhinos clicked into gear blowing Salford away 14-46 on a disappointing afternoon.

Under Coach David Furner Leeds have struggled to find consistency with just four wins so far leaving them in 10th place. Last weekend a healthy lead at home to fellow strugglers Hull Kingston Rovers was almost blown but the Rhinos frantically held on to clinch a 28-24 victory.

Salford will be looking to kick start their home form. With just one victory at home this season Watson and his players are desperate to impress.

Leeds definitely have some talented players in the ranks but for one reason or another haven’t really got going yet in 2019.

This could be a massive psychological hurdle for Salford to get over. Over the years The Loiners have been a huge thorn in the side at the Willows, Headingley, in Cup ties, finals and more recently they have an excellent record at The AJ Bell Stadium. 

With some huge games coming up in the month of May this one could really build some momentum particularly after a very good Easter and a real solid display at London last Saturday.

Watson is looking up the table not down and two points against Leeds keeps Salford in touch with the Super League top five.

Memorable results From Yesteryear.

Over the years their have been some thrilling encounters between the two sides. A Wednesday night fixture on bonfire night in 1958, a bitter rivalry in the 1970s, Leeds having the upper hand since the 80s and who could forget last season’s clash when Jackson Hastings made his Salford debut.

Salford 17 Leeds 22  5th November 1958 played under floodlights at 

Old Trafford.

Salford 27 Leeds 2   17th September 1971.

Salford 61 Leeds 13  17th March 1974.

Salford 7 Leeds 5   20th February 1976.

Salford 24 Leeds 7  21st September 1979.

Salford 16 Leeds 22   29th September 1985.

Salford 30 Leeds 38  12th May 1999

Salford 18 Leeds 19    16th June 2006

Salford 24 Leeds 30   11th September 2009

Salford 14 Leeds 10    9th April 2016.

Salford 38 Leeds 22   27th July 2018.

A match to remember Salford 61 Leeds 13  17th March 1974.

Rewind to just over forty five years ago and the Leeds hoodoo was just as evident as it is now. In the previous season of 1972/73 Leeds had done the league double over Salford and when the two sides had met in a classic match at Fartown in The John Player Trophy final the Loiners yet again had the edge.

Despite a fantastic effort, Colin Dixon’s try and David Watkins two conversions left Salford just short going down 12-7.

When the two sides met at The Willows on St Patrick’s day in 1974 Leeds had already broken Salford hearts knocking us out of the John player Trophy and the Challenge cup. The Challenge cup tie at Headingley had taken place a few weeks earlier in February. Salford were playing some fantastic rugby and the supporters were starting to believe that exciting times weren’t far off. 56 coaches left The Willows bound for Yorkshire. It wasn’t to be with Leeds clinging on for a 10-6 win.

To say Salford owed Leeds one was probably an understatement. A bitter rivalry had developed between the two sides and this particular Sunday afternoon in 1974 was definitely one to remember.

With the genius and creativity of Kenny Gill, the fantastic kicking of David Watkins, the leadership of captain courageous Chris Hesketh, the speed and strength of Colin Dixon the points kept coming much to the delight of the home crowd. Salford’s side had quality in every position, Paul Charlton one of the fittest players to grace the sport. A tremendously brave defender and sublime in attack. Ellis Devlin a hooker well ahead of his time and not to forget a back line that oozed pace and a slickness that many supporters admired.

Tries from Watkins 2, Devlin 2, Maurice Richards 2, Dixon 2, Charlton 2, Hesketh, Keith Fielding and Kenny Gill blew Leeds apart.

It’s fair to say this victory was a catalyst to drive Salford on for the remaining four weeks of the season where the fixtures came thick and fast. 

After victory at Wigan 12-21 Salford were crowned Champions of 73/74!

They played for both.

Here are a few players to wear the red of Salford and the blue and amber of Leeds.

Luke Burgess, Joel Moon, Mark Brooke-Cowden, Andrew Duneman, Ensene Famailo, Phil Ford, Ashley Gibson, Phil Hassan, Weller Hauraki, Ben Jones Bishop, Andy Kirk, Francis Maloney, Richie Myler and David Young.

Friday’s match.

Salford will be looking to get out of the blocks early on Friday night. A good start is essential. Despite Leeds poor start to the season they have players who can cause damage and some exciting youngsters in their ranks.

Adam Cuthbertson is a strong forward who has one of the best off loads in the Super League. Hookers Brad Dwyer and Matt Parcell have impressed in recent weeks but the Rhinos conundrum remains their half back pairing. Last time out against Hull Kingston Rovers Tui Lolohea partnered Richie Myler. Lolohea has received plenty of criticism this season so the question is will coach David Furner keep faith with the pair on Friday. 

Young fullback Jack Walker had a fantastic game when the two sides met earlier in the year and is as brave as they come. 

Jackson Hastings and Robert Lui will be looking to dominate for Salford and a young mobile pack has really impressed over the Easter fixtures. Daniel Murray continues to grow in confidence and is blossoming in to a very accomplished player. The all action Joey Lussick has been amongst the tries three games running and Josh Jones is one of the most consistent performers at the club.

Adam Walker failed a late fitness test last Saturday at London. His return would be a timely one, his size and aggression would certainly pose Leeds a big threat. 

This promises to be a fascinating encounter and one I am really excited for.

The race for the top five in 2019 is wide open and with a little consistency this Salford side is capable of upsetting the odds.

Safe travels and enjoy the game everyone.

Paul Whiteside.

Pictures by Steve McCormick