Big match preview Salford v Hull FC

Paul Parkin looks forward to Salford v Hull FC on Friday. It's a vital game for both sides read his preview here.

So we go into another massive clash this Friday with the two teams coming off very different results last time out. For Salford, it was a disappointing day at the office against a well drilled Wakefield side (The first to do the double over us this season) losing our long uneaten run. As for the Airlie Birds the won a topsy-turvy tussle against Wigan winning 39-26 with goal kicking being the major difference and that without the kicking of Marc Sneyd!

I think this game will prove to be very tight and if our Super League history is anything to go by then expect a nail biter. Average home super league score over 18 matches is Salford 22 Hull FC 23

 

Battle 1

Gareth O’Brien v Jamie Shaul

These two will no doubt have a huge influence on which side takes the spoils this week, both are very adept at joining into the attack with devastating effect. Gareth has been eagerly watched by opposing defences in recent weeks as his threat is now a crucial factor in our fantastic season. Shaul is a very exciting player, plenty of pace and an elusive running style he’ll surely pose us a major headache.

Both players must be hugely unlucky not to have been included in the England train on squad.

 

Battle 2

Rob Lui v Albert Kelly

The two magicians of their respective sides, the two who could well hold the key to victory. Both players are mavericks with unconventional ways of playing. Rob has been in some fantastic form this year setting up much of what has been good for Salford and has developed a great understanding with Michael Dobson. Albert Kelly made the short but treacherous trip across the City of Hull last season and boy has it paid off, he’s made many eye-catching appearances and scored some scintillating tries a real game winner for FC.

  Battle 3

 

Ben Murdoch-Masila v Liam Watts

Now for the grunt up front. Both these men have been in impervious form this season and will lead their sides up the park. BMM has been a real sensation this year causing teams no end of problems and crossing the whitewash with alarming regularity. Watts is a real warrior, uncompromising, tough, solid and dependable. The experienced Prop lead by example for the Hull side and puts his hand up for more work both in attack and defence.

 

Stats

 

Form

Team news

 

 

Your listening to this weeks Devil in the Detail podcast all your Salford Red Devil's news and chat, we are joined by Richard Lowe who helps us look at all the big news coming from the club, Rob Lui, Jake Bibby, Logan Tomkins and Kris Brining look back at the Wakefield defeat with Ian Watson in coaches corner 

Paul looks at the results and fixtures of the local amateur clubs in the area as we look forward to the Hull FC game on Sunday.