Big match preview Salford Red Devils v Leeds

Salford Red Devils take on Leeds Rhinos on Saturday 9th April and its a big game for both teams looking to kick start their season. Dan Robinson takes us though the teams, Stats and much more enjoy

Michael Dobson v Rob Burrow

Dobson in recent games i think has struggled being the only true playmaker in the team. With the absence of Robert Lui by his side he really needs to lead the team around the field. We all know he can have a tremendous kicking game but can he have a complete performance against a Leeds Rhinos side that will look to try and get there season under way

Rob Burrow has been a fantastic player for the Rhinos over the years and has the ability to turn a game on its head. He can be targeted in defence by the likes of Masila who would be no match for the little whippet. The question is will burrow play at 7 or 9.

Craig Kopczak vAdam Cuthbertson

I think we really missed Kopczak last week against Wakefield. He is both strong going forward and and good in defence. If he can control the middle of the field and keep the likes of Cuthbertson and Galloway quiet then that will be a key factor if we are to get the 2 points on offer.

Cuthbertson has been in fine form since his arrival last season. He is one player we will have to watch out for and try and stop him off loading the ball in the tackle. His ability with the ball is fantastic and skill set means he can act as a halfback if required on the field. Kopczak and G.Griffin will need to match him upfront if we are to come out on top

Gaz O'Brien V Zak Hardaker

O'Brien has struggle in recent weeks having been switched from full back to half back on a number of occasions during a game. He is another player that has been really good for us and has kept Niall Evalds out of the starting 13. His kicking game can be very good and can ease the pressure on Dobson and try and help with field position. In recent games his goal kicking has come under some stick and we really do need him converting our chances on Saturday if we are to win

Hardaker is one of Leeds key strike players. He has an all round ability as he can play with the ball, has a solid defence and can also kick. The England international will look to carve some holes in the Devils defensive line on Saturday.

Stats

Defence will win you matches and Salford have players who are willing to do the hard work, George Griffin and Logan Tomkins will be looking close down the leeds attack on Saturday with lots of enthusiastic defence.  Leeds have Keith Galloway and Brett Ferris in a strong pack. Saturdays game  is so important  both defences will be tested and the defence who works the hardest will get the win.

It is so important that momentum is built and both teams have players who can make big yards in the tackle, Josh Griffin, Justin Carney and Junior Sau add both speed and strength to the go forward of Salford and all  3 will need to be in good form on Saturday to make the Rhinos pay.

Leeds love the battle and with Brett Ferris and Adam Cuthbertson they will make the hard yards, Zak Hardaker provides the pace and power to the Rhinos back  line.

Salford and Leeds have players who can be match winners on their day, Top try scorer for Salford Josh Griffin will be looking to add to his total and with Junior Sau and  Justin Carney also in support Salford will be looking to break down that Leeds defence.

Kalum Watkins and  Liam Sutcliffe are the dangermen for leeds.  If they are given space Leeds will punish Salford.

Coaches Corner

Both Coaches will be looking to use this result as a spring board to a more successful 2nd  half of the season, Brian McDermott finds his team towards the bottom of the league and its not normally where Leeds Rhinos function.  Pressure is building on him and defeat at Salford may be the final nail in the coffin.

Ian Watson will be looking to get back to winning ways after a disappointing result last week at Wakefield. with a growing injury list its how he manages his injured stars back into the team without

bringing them back in too soon.

Rob Lui has been drafted into the Salford 19 as a replacement for the injured Tommy Lee, Lui has so far in a Red shirt showed skills which left lots of Salford fans wanting more. he has been missed while he has been injured and now he is back Salford fans will be looking forward to more moments of magic from him.