So, we’re down to our final match of the “regular” season before the big split, which for the first time since this concept was introduced we’re on the right side of. Now the question is can we save our spot in the top 4 which in all honesty we deserve?, a feat not achieved since the 1979/80 season and possible finish where we start this round in 3rd which is even more of an effort and would only be the 15th time we’ve finished in the top 3 in our Rugby League playing history.
As for Leigh, it’s been a struggle at times as the season has worn on, they started strongly but soon came to terms that Super League can be a real slog. However, they will be keen to do all they can not to sit bottom going in to the horrible matter of the middle eights, a win over the Red Devils and a Widnes defeat and they’ll manage it.
The rivalry between the two clubs is long and colourful and you can add both club owners into that. Both sides coming of defeats, Salford away at Castleford and Leigh also in Yorkshire at Huddersfield. Leigh also have had the much-expected news of Jamie Acton who will now sit out most of the rest of the season.
Battle 1: Niall Evalds & Jake Bibby v Matty Dawson & Adam Higson
If last week told us anything it’s our defence on the flanks is, well let’s say in need of improvement… it became a little alarming at times how easily we were beaten out wide and I’m sure this is something the coach Ian Watson has put plenty of focus on this week in training and I’m also sure that Neil Dukes has looked at as a week spot in our armour and will be instruct his team to attack the wings as often as possible and with Dawson and Higson facing up against two non-wingers in Bibby and Evalds this will be a real test.
Battle 2: Logan Tomkins v Micky Higham & Eloi Pelissier
It may appear to be a bit unfair pairing up the Leigh combo against Logan but that’s the situation we have, Leigh have two out and out quality hookers in their squad for the match and both can cause plenty of damage from acting half. Salford on the other hand are missing Kris Brining who has been excellent for us this year and is a huge loss so responsibility rests with Tomkins who has been outstanding, his work rate is second to none, he’ll probably be rotated with Rob Lui who did well in that position last week but its unnatural for him to defend in that role which can be crucial so I expect Logan to do plenty of minutes.
Battle 3: Lama Tazi v Gareth Hock
Two big uncompromising men who will give no quarter, I’m looking forward to these two facing off against each other both strong runners and powerful defenders and both can be a little hot headed in the heat of the battle. We’ve seen what Hock can produce in his punctuated time with the Reds and Lama is in the form of his life putting in big minutes as well as big hits, if these two get stuck into each other stay out of the way!!
Head to head
Form
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