Sportszone preview Salford Red Devil’s v Huddesfield

Salford v Huddersfield.

After a disappointing start to the 2018 campaign Huddersfield were the first team to part company with there coach. Australian Rick Stone who lead the Giants to a top 8 finish last year left a few weeks ago. Since then an encouraging 22-22 draw at home to Leeds on Good Friday has given the fans hope they can repeat last years Top eight finish. In recent weeks The Giants form has improved considerably with back to back wins over early season pace setters Wakefield Trinity in both the Challenge cup and super league. 

Add to that a good solid home win 28-18 against struggling Widnes, Huddersfield are now just one point behind Salford in the league table. The two sides met twice last season at The AJ Bell Stadium with the Red Devil’s recording victories in the regular season and the super eights. Out of the eight fixtures the two sides have played since Salford’s move from the Willows The Giants have come up with four wins. Our visitors on Friday have quite a few players back in recent weeks from injury that have bolstered there squad. Jake Mamo, Jermaine McGillvary, Darnell McIntosh, Danny Brough could all feature this Friday. 

Super League home record.

Salford 12

Draws 0

Huddersfield 7

1998 Salford 40 Huddersfield 6

1999 Salford 14 Huddersfield 15

2000 Salford 18 Huddersfield/Sheffield 8

2001 Salford 28 Huddersfield 14

2004 Salford 18 Huddersfield 25

2005 Salford 24 Huddersfield 16

2006 Salford 36 Huddersfield 18

2007 Salford 14 Huddersfield 12

2009 Salford 10 Huddersfield 34

2010 Salford 30 Huddersfield 18

2011 Salford 24 Huddersfield 18

2012 Salford 20 Huddersfield 30

2013 Salford 21 Huddersfield 20

2014 Salford 22 Huddersfield 42

2015 Salford 0 Huddersfield 19

2016 Salford 30 Huddersfield 31

2016 Salford 34 Huddersfield 12 ( qualifying eights)

2017 Salford 36 Huddersfield 20

2017 Salford 52 Huddersfield 14 (Super Eights)

They played for both.

Here are a selection of players who have played for both clubs;

Steve Kerry, Danny Arnold, Greg Austin, David Bradbury, Jodie Broughton, Ryan Clayton, Gavin Clinch, Greg Eden, Simon Finnigan, Matt Gardner, Lee Gaskell, Martin Gleeson, Bobbie Goulding, Darrel Griffin, Josh Griffin, Neil Harmon, David Hodgson, Graham Holroyd, Andy Johnson, Phil Joseph, Craig Kopzack, Michael korkidas, Tommy Lee, Martin Moana, Chris Nero, Robbie Paul, Luke Robinson, Jordan Turner, Adam Walne, Paul White and Stephen Wild.

A match to remember  29th March 2013

Salford 21 Huddersfield  20

A late Marc Sneyd drop proved the difference in this entertaining fixture just over five years ago. At the time Salford were struggling rooted to the bottom of The Super League table. With just one victory in our opening 8 matches this result was seen by many as a surprise with Huddersfield riding high in the table. 

New Salford centre Gaskell, who has joined the Reds on a season's loan from St Helens, marked his debut with a sparkling 40-metre try after only four minutes. Jodie Broughton, Ashley Gibson and Jordan James all touched down for Salford. Craig Kopzack grabbed a try that night for the Giants but it was Sneyd’s drop goal six minutes from time that settled the contest. Alan Hunte was interim head coach at the time following the departure of Phil Vievers.

The teams that day were;

Salford: Sneyd; Murphy, Gibson, Gaskell, Broughton; Fages, Foran; Griffin, Godwin, Neal, Ashurst, Dixon, Wild.

Replacements: James, Boyle, Owen, Nero.

Huddersfield: Grix; McGillvary, Cudjoe, Wardle, Murphy; Brough, Robinson; Crabtree, Lunt, Kopczak, Ferres, Aspinall, Ferguson.

Replacements: Fairbank, Faiumu, Mullally, Fielden.

Come the end of the 2013 season the two sides were worlds apart. Salford finished bottom of the table while Huddersfield went on to finish top lifting the League Leaders shield. There first top place finish in top flight Rugby League for 81 years. Five Giants were selected in the Super League dream team that year. There season finally came to an end at Warrington in the playoff semi final.

Fridays match.

With Salford’s recent form Friday’s game is crucial for both sides. Huddersfield have renewed confidence on the back of there last few results and with an excellent victory over Wakefield at the magic weekend come in to this match just a point behind Salford in the league table. Simon Woolford is the new coach at the Giants and since his appointment the sides up turn in form has been quite remarkable. Ian Watson’s Salford side are desperate to get back to winning ways with the four sides below them in the table showing signs of revival. The Red Devil’s are far from secure in the top eight but a win on Friday would certainly do there confidence the world of good and give them some breathing space ahead of the chasing pack.

The action gets under way at 8pm.

Enjoy the game everyone, Paul Whiteside.

Pictures by Steve McCormick 

match report huddesfield

The recent heat wave took a Twenty four hour break as a damp and gloomy evening welcomed both sides to the pitch. 

The match a real crucial one with the Giants just a point behind Salford knowing victory would send there hosts sliding in the The danger zone of the bottom four, whilst at the same time lifting themselves in to the top eight.

It was a really nervous atmosphere drifting around the stadium, however Salford’s loyal hard core supporters are in inspirational mood and good voice.

Junior Sau grabbed the first try of the game powering through a gap in The Giants defence in the third minute. Robert Lui failed to convert but in the 15th minute slotted a penalty goal over to give Salford a 6-0 lead.

Jake Shorrocks was penalised for obstruction and from that Huddersfield used the resulting penalty as a spring board to gain some good field position. Jake Mamo’s cut out pass sending wing man Darnell McIntosh over in the corner.

Danny Brough failed to convert the try but levelled the scores with a penalty goal.

Derrell Olpherts put a real hit and hope kick through which Niall Evalds chased. What seemed like a lost cause ended up with a try for the speedster Evalds as he just managed to touch down as the Giants defender tried to shepherd the ball out. Lui again failed to convert but Salford went in at half time 10-6 to the good.

Huddersfield hit the front for the first time in the match after the break when Danny Smith went over from close range. Salford’s lack of creativity with the ball again cost them dearly. The penalty count started to rack up in The Giants favour and when Jordan Turner crashed over Salford were two scores adrift.

Kruise Leeming a real live wire at hooker for the visitors compelled the hosts to a fifth successive defeat with another close range try where perhaps the Salford defence should have done better.

Junior Sau powered over late on for The Red Devil’s but it was to little to late.

A hugely disappointing night for the home side who lost Niall Evalds to injury late on. Coach Ian Watson now has two weeks to put things right before the visit to Hull Fc.

Salford 16 Huddersfield 24.

Paul Whiteside.

Pictures by Steve McCormick 📸

Salford v Huddesfield Big match preview

Salford v Huddersfield.

After a disappointing start to the 2018 campaign Huddersfield were the first team to part company with there coach. Australian Rick Stone who lead the Giants to a top 8 finish last year left a few weeks ago. 

Since then an encouraging 22-22 draw at home to Leeds on Good Friday has given the fans hope they can repeat last years Top eight finish. In recent weeks The Giants form has improved considerably with back to back wins over early season pace setters Wakefield Trinity in both the Challenge cup and super league. 

Add to that a good solid home win 28-18 against struggling Widnes, Huddersfield are now just one point behind Salford in the league table. The two sides met twice last season at The AJ Bell Stadium with the Red Devil’s recording victories in the regular season and the super eights. Out of the eight fixtures the two sides have played since Salford’s move from the Willows The Giants have come up with four wins. 

Our visitors on Friday have quite a few players back in recent weeks from injury that have bolstered there squad. Jake Mamo, Jermaine McGillvary, Darnell McIntosh, Danny Brough could all feature this Friday. 

Super League home record.

Salford 12

Draws 0

Huddersfield 7

1998 Salford 40 Huddersfield 6

1999 Salford 14 Huddersfield 15

2000 Salford 18 Huddersfield/Sheffield 8

2001 Salford 28 Huddersfield 14

2004 Salford 18 Huddersfield 25

2005 Salford 24 Huddersfield 16

2006 Salford 36 Huddersfield 18

2007 Salford 14 Huddersfield 12

2009 Salford 10 Huddersfield 34

2010 Salford 30 Huddersfield 18

2011 Salford 24 Huddersfield 18

2012 Salford 20 Huddersfield 30

2013 Salford 21 Huddersfield 20

2014 Salford 22 Huddersfield 42

2015 Salford 0 Huddersfield 19

2016 Salford 30 Huddersfield 31

2016 Salford 34 Huddersfield 12 ( qualifying eights)

2017 Salford 36 Huddersfield 20

2017 Salford 52 Huddersfield 14 (Super Eights)

They played for both.

Here are a selection of players who have played for both clubs;

Steve Kerry, Danny Arnold, Greg Austin, David Bradbury, Jodie Broughton, Ryan Clayton, Gavin Clinch, Greg Eden, Simon Finnigan, Matt Gardner, Lee Gaskell, Martin Gleeson, Bobbie Goulding, Darrel Griffin, Josh Griffin, Neil Harmon, David Hodgson, Graham Holroyd, Andy Johnson, Phil Joseph, Craig Kopzack, Michael korkidas, Tommy Lee, Martin Moana, Chris Nero, Robbie Paul, Luke Robinson, Jordan Turner, Adam Walne, Paul White and Stephen Wild.

A match to remember  29th March 2013

Salford 21 Huddersfield  20

A late Marc Sneyd drop proved the difference in this entertaining fixture just over five years ago. At the time Salford were struggling rooted to the bottom of The Super League table. With just one victory in our opening 8 matches this result was seen by many as a surprise with Huddersfield riding high in the table. 

New Salford centre Gaskell, who has joined the Reds on a season's loan from St Helens, marked his debut with a sparkling 40-metre try after only four minutes. Jodie Broughton, Ashley Gibson and Jordan James all touched down for Salford. Craig Kopzack grabbed a try that night for the Giants but it was Sneyd’s drop goal six minutes from time that settled the contest. Alan Hunte was interim head coach at the time following the departure of Phil Vievers.

The teams that day were;

Salford: Sneyd; Murphy, Gibson, Gaskell, Broughton; Fages, Foran; Griffin, Godwin, Neal, Ashurst, Dixon, Wild.

Replacements: James, Boyle, Owen, Nero.

Huddersfield: Grix; McGillvary, Cudjoe, Wardle, Murphy; Brough, Robinson; Crabtree, Lunt, Kopczak, Ferres, Aspinall, Ferguson.

Replacements: Fairbank, Faiumu, Mullally, Fielden.

Come the end of the 2013 season the two sides were worlds apart. Salford finished bottom of the table while Huddersfield went on to finish top lifting the League Leaders shield. There first top place finish in top flight Rugby League for 81 years. Five Giants were selected in the Super League dream team that year. There season finally came to an end at Warrington in the playoff semi final.

Fridays match.

With Salford’s recent form Friday’s game is crucial for both sides. Huddersfield have renewed confidence on the back of there last few results and with an excellent victory over Wakefield at the magic weekend come in to this match just a point behind Salford in the league table. 

Simon Woolford is the new coach at the Giants and since his appointment the sides up turn in form has been quite remarkable. Ian Watson’s Salford side are desperate to get back to winning ways with the four sides below them in the table showing signs of revival. The Red Devil’s are far from secure in the top eight but a win on Friday would certainly do there confidence the world of good and give them some breathing space ahead of the chasing pack.

The action gets under way at 8pm.

Enjoy the game everyone, Paul Whiteside.

Salford Red Devil’s Magic Weekend defeat

A lovely warm sunny afternoon welcomed Salford and Catalan to the pitch.

The Dragons coming in to the match bottom of the table but knowing a victory would get them with in touching distance of the Red Devil’s.

Ian Watson’s side on the back of three defeats with last weeks disappointing cup exit to Championship’s form side Leigh adding to there recent woes.

The Gollowgate end looked a real spectacle with the Salford supporters wearing the clubs special yellow bee jerseys as everyone remembered the tragic victims of last May. 

Catalan made a mistake on there first set knocking on in there own half. Robert Lui kicked out wide for Kris Welham to put Derrell Olpherts in at the corner. Referee Gareth Hewer goes to the video replay and no try is awarded.

Salford looking a lot more adventurous with the ball grab the first try of the match after some neat of loads Weller Hauraki is under the posts. 

Three penalties on the trot for the Dragons pave the way for an assault on the Salford line. Ben Garcia stretches out to score, after another consultation with the video referee the try is given. Josh Drinkwater failed to convert, 6-4 to The Red Devil’s.

Tony Gigot missed a routine penalty goal but moments later Logan Tomkins failed to deal with a near grubber kick leaving Julian Bousquet the easy task of falling on the ball. Gigot added the conversion to give the Dragons the lead 6-10.

Gigot continued to cause Salford problems with his dangerous direct running around the ruck. 

Former Salford star Jodie Broughton scored the first points of the second half Welham shooting out of the line leaving Niall Evalds exposed. Gigot’s conversion attempt was well wide but with half an hour remaining Catalan had an eight point lead. 

Salford continued to poke and prod in attack 

but the next points came against the run of play. A huge hit on Niall Evalds forced the knock on, Josh Drinkwater collecting the loose ball sending Broughton racing away with a lovely pass to score his second try. Moments later Gigot provided a smart kick on a plate for Broughton to complete a second half hat trick. At 6-24 it seemed a long road back for Salford in the final 15 minutes.

Broughton’s next involvement was to miss read a Salford kick, Welham off loads to Craig Kopzack but he couldn’t take the pass with the try line begging.

Welham then left the field after picking up a knock in a heavy collision. On the next set a The Dragons received a penalty straight in front of the posts and the signal came from the bench to kick at goal. Gigot added the two points to extend the lead to 6-26 compounding Salford to third successive league defeat. 

George Griffin went over for Salford in the closing stages, Jack Littlejohn knocking on from the kick off summed up another disappointing 80 minutes.

Final score at St James’s Park Salford 12 Catalan 26.

Ian Watson was again very disappointed with the result stating that training had gone really along with preparation through the week. A poor completion rate and errors costing his side yet again. The lack of depth in the squad seems to be hampering Salford who now have a huge match next Friday against Huddersfield.

Report by Paul Whiteside

Pictures by Steve McCormick 

Sportszone Magic Weekend Preview

This will be the first meeting between the Devils and the Dragons  at The magic weekend.The Dragons come in to the game bottom of the Super League table but in recent weeks have shown major improvement. A home victory over Hull FC and a creditable performance away to St. Helens have certainly given Steve McNamara and his team hope of avoiding the bottom four.

New signing Josh Drinkwater could be the missing piece in the Catalan jigsaw having slotted in perfectly in his first few games for the club. Having spent 2017 with Leigh Josh’s organisational skills will get his team around the park.

Salford come in to this game on the back of a very disappointing defeat to Leigh in The Challenge Cup last weekend. In the previous weeks before that a 30-0 defeat to Wigan and a 10-60 home drubbing to St. Helens has left Ian Watson’s boys looking for a response. Salford still have a small cushion above the sides in the bottom four but are fully aware things can change very quickly.

Sunday will be The Red Devil’s fourth visit to Newcastle’s St James’s Park. This time last season Salford were soaring in to this fixture in magnificent form. Fast forward twelve months and despite some pivotal players leaving the club a top eight finish is definitely there for the taking.

Magic weekend record

Won 4

Lost 6

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2007 Salford 18 Warrington 50. Millennium stadium Cardiff 

2009 Salford 16 Harlequins 24. Edinburgh Murrayfield

2010 Salford 16 Warrington 68. Edinburgh Murrayfield

2011 Salford 12 Celtic 42. Millennium stadium Cardiff 

2012 Salford 38 Huddersfield 34. Manchester Etihad Stadium 

2013 Salford 28 Widnes 22. Manchester Etihad Stadium 

2014 Salford 24 Widnes 30. Manchester Etihad Stadium 

2015 Salford 16 Widnes 38. St James Park Newcastle 

2016 Salford 18 Widnes 12. St James Park Newcastle 

2017 Salford 36 Leigh 22. St James Park Newcastle

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They played for both.

Despite Catalan Dragons short existence there are a number of players who’ve played for both clubs including Jodie Broughton, Luke Burgess, Iain Thornley, David Berthezene, Todd Carney, Michael Dobson and Richie Myler.

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Magic weekend game to remember

Salford 18 Widnes 12 , 21st May 2016

Samoan international Daniel Vidot scored his first Super League tries to inflict an eighth successive defeat on a Widnes side who had led the Super League table a few months earlier.

The former Brisbane Broncos winger, who missed the first three months of the season with a shoulder injury, opened the scoring after only three minutes and returned from a concussion assessment to add his second on 67 minutes which ultimately sealed an 18-12 success.

Inspirational captain Kevin Brown had returned for The Vikings but some fantastic Red Devil’s defence kept the half back quiet. Junior Sau and Ben Murdoch Masila proving a real handful for Widnes all afternoon.

Both sides defended with real gusto to make this match a real thriller with plenty of chances. Rhys Hanbury and Joe Mellor pulling the strings for The Chemics.

Justin Carney came up with a try saving tackle late on to deny Widnes winger Cory Thompson and Gareth O Briens penalty goal gave Salford a six point cushion 18-12.

Much to the delight of their travelling army of supporters The Red Devils hung on for a much needed victory.

The teams that day;

Salford: O’Brien, Carney, Sa’u, Bibby, Vidot, Lui, Dobson, Kopczak, Tomkins, G. Griffin, Murdoch-Masila, Jones, Flanagan.

Replacements: Hauraki, A. Walne, Joseph, Lannon.

Widnes: Hanbury, Thompson, Runciman, Bridge, Marsh, Mellor, Brown, O’Carroll, White, Dudson, Houston, Dean, Cahill.

Replacements: Heremaia, Manuokafoa, Whitley, Leuluai.

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Sunday’s match

A really significant match for both sides. A win for the Dragons will put them just two points behind The Red Devils. On the other hand victory for Salford will keep their breathing space between the bottom four.

The big question on most supporters lips will be – is Robert Lui back in the side? The star man as he’s affectionately known pulls the strings at the heart of this Salford side and so much of the attacking play comes off him. As mentioned before Josh Drinkwater is a key player for the Dragon’s and former Red Devil’s winger Jodie Broughton scored a hat trick in the cup last week.

Catalan have plenty of size in the pack and glancing at their playing roster it’s hard to understand why they have struggled so much given the talent at their disposal. Coach Steve McNamara will be out to prove his critics wrong on the big stage in Newcastle. The same can be said for Ian Watson. After three defeats on the spin it would be unfair to say he’s under pressure but knowing the very high standards Ian sets he will be demanding a big performance after last week. All the ingredients are there for a fascinating encounter. The action gets under way at 1pm this Sunday.

Enjoy the game everyone, Paul Whiteside.

Pictures by Steve McCormick 

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Check out this weeks Sportszone above all your local salford Sport chat on Salford City Radio 📻 

Big Match Preview Magic Weekend Special

Catalans Dragons vs Salford Red Devils – Doom and gloom, or reasons for optimism?
Super League Magic Weekend - Sunday 20th May – St James’ Park KO 1:00PM

Catalans Dragons vs Salford Red Devils – Doom and gloom, or reasons for optimism? Richard Lowe picks through the last few weeks of Salford struggles and points to a potential silver lining over the Magic Weekend and beyond.

Salford travel to St James’ Park, Newcastle knowing that this is a must win game. Ian Watson and his side have come in for some criticism over the last couple of weeks. While it’s easy to see that frustration is playing a big part, the fans must understand there are a lot of reasons why this Salford team has come up short over the last 3 games.



Robert Lui. Since the ‘star man’ was injured in the win over Wakefield 4 games ago, the team has looked blunt in attack. The creativity that he brings to the team is highlighted now he is out of it. Effort and commitment will get you so far, but it’s the cutting edge that he provides that the Red Devils are really missing currently.


Other key injuries: Kris Brining, Manu Vatuvei, Josh Jones, Mark Flanagan, Lee Mossop, Niall Evalds and Rob Lui make up just some of the list of personnel who have been unavailable during the past 3 weeks. The coaching staff have had to make debutants of some of the loanees in the forward pack. While in the backline, trying to find the best combination of halfbacks and pivots that has seen Gareth O’Brien and Michael Dobson depart and Rob Lui and Niall Evalds injured was always going to be a difficult task. There is a lot to be said for being able to pick a relatively consistent side, something that Watson will be hoping he can return to as soon as possible.


Hard run of games. Playing St Helens, then going away to Wigan, followed by a rejuvenated Leigh at the LSV was never going to be easy. Add the comparative thinness of the squad available to Ian Watson and it’s obvious that this period was always going to be an uphill struggle.

With all that said, the season currently stands at a crucial point. The fans maybe need to look forward a little and focus on what could be a very good run in and another top 8 finish. There are several reasons to be optimistic:



Robert Lui. The Star man could make the 19 for the game against Catalan and therefore our attack must be bolstered by his return. This could also take the pressure off Jack Littlejohn and allow him to concentrate on his own game, allowing Lui to take the lead. This also allows Josh Wood to move into his preferred hooking role, where he’s performed brilliantly earlier in the season.



‘Winnable games’. Ian Watson would never admit it, but he will have secretly been targeting this run of games with the hope of picking up points against the so called ‘lesser opposition’ in Super League. With the next 4 games against, Catalans, Huddersfield, what could be a depleted Hull FC side and Widnes, there are many potential points up for grabs and how the Red Devils come out of this period of games will no doubt dictate how the season will pan out.


Still in 8th with 3 point cushion. At this point in the season, if you are in the top 8 having played Wigan and St Helens twice already and with potentially winnable games coming up, there’s surely no reason why Salford can’t push on and start looking up instead of down. Momentum and a winning habit can be infectious, so it needs to start with a performance and a positive result against Catalans this weekend.


With Catalan winning 3 and losing 3 in their last 6 games, they too are struggling to find any level of consistency. There’s no doubt that the Dragons will be targeting this game as a winnable fixture as well.



If Ian Watson’s men can cut out the silly errors that have crept into their game over the last few weeks and with the hopeful return of Rob Lui to bring an injection of creativity, there’s no reason that the Red Devils can’t start to look forward to the next few games with huge optimism.
C’mon Salford!












Pictures by Gaz Lyons 

Sportszone Salford are out of the cup after defeat at Leigh

Leigh were in good form coming in to tonight’s clash after turning their league form round in the past few months. Salford were on the back of two heavy defeats to St. Helens and Wigan and looking to get back on track in the Challenge Cup.

Ben Nakubuwai, George Griffin, Niall Evalds and Mark Flanagan all returned to the Salford line up after missing last week.

Former Red Devil’s forward Harrison Hansen started in the pack for the Centurions, theit side boasting plenty of Super League experience.

Jamie Acton’s mistake on the second tackle of the match paved the way for a Salford attack. After good strong running from Nakubuwai, Evalds bags the first try of the game.

Both sides traded sets in the opening quarter before George Griffin powered over from close range to double the lead.

Leigh full back Peter Mata’utia sets up a well worked try for half back Ben Reynolds to scoot under the posts to put the Centurions right back in the contest. Moments later a Salford mistake gives Leigh the opportunity to attack. Sloppy tackling and Harrison brushes off defenders to level the scores. Reynolds conversion edged Leigh ahead at 12-10.

As the first half progressed both sides created chances with the game being played at a frantic pace.

Greg Johnson came close to giving Salford the lead just before the break but tremendous goal defence from Leigh kept there line intact.

Salford’s start to the second half can only be described as lacklustre. Two mistakes in the opening two sets.

Leigh were denied by the video referee but moments later hooker Daniel Mortimer burrowed over from dummy half. Reynolds conversion opened up an 8 point lead 18-10.

As the game entered the final quarter Leigh continued to dictate proceedings piling on the pressure. For Salford the silly errors continued to hamper their progress.

The Centurions veteran hooker Mickey Higham played a key role leading his side around the park. Half backs Drew Hutchinson and Ben Reynolds bossed the game for the home side and were rewarded with their fourth try of the night to seal the place in the quarter final draw. Drew Hutchinson scoring from close range with three minutes remaining.

Salford’s errors and poor defence really cost them. Leigh were far superior in every department.

Ian Watson speaking after the game said “we’ve completed 4 sets out of 21 in the second half and that’s not good enough whatever level you play at”.

Final score at The Leigh Sports Village Leigh 22 Salford 10

Paul Whiteside

Pictures by Gaz Lyons

SPORTSZONE CHALLENGE CUP PREVIEW

The Challenge Cup is the Holy Grail to many rugby league supporters of teams who have been out of the lime light for a while. Salford have won the famous trophy just once in 1938. Lance Todd’s great side beat Barrow 7-4 at Wembley. The Red Devil’s last appearance in the show piece final came in 1969 an 11-6 defeat against Castleford.Even through Salford’s glory days of the 1970s the Challenge cup was always the one that got away with disappointing defeats right through the decade.

Leigh have two Challenge Cup wins to there name 1921 and the famous 24-7 victory over big guns Leeds in 1971. Player coach Alex Murphy involved in an incident that saw Leeds player Syd Hynes become the first player to be sent off in The Final. Tries from Stan Dorrington and David Eckersley along with four drop goals and Stuart Ferguson’s goal kicking claimed a memorable win.

Eckersley shaping to drop and goal but then gliding over to score under the posts one of the many highlights.

Leigh were beaten in the semi final of 1974 against Featherstone Rovers and went down 14-8 in the 1987 semi final against St. Helens.

In recent years the Centurions have had some excellent cup runs reaching the Quarter Finals in 2012, 2014 and 2015. 2014 a real valiant effort at Headingly when they were unlucky to lose to Leeds 25-12.

Salford have appeared in four Semi Finals in the last 30 years. Beaten at Burden Park Bolton in 1988 against Wigan, in 1997 the newly promoted Salford Reds appeared in Super League for the first time an excellent cup run defeating top flight opposition all the way was ended at Central Park against St. Helens. The following year a heart breaking defeat at Headingly against Sheffield Eagles 22-18. Salford were 18-10 up in the second half at one stage. Last season Ian Watson’s Salford Red Devil’s were beaten in the semi final by Wigan.

In recent years when it comes to cup meetings between the two sides Leigh have had the edge. The last meeting came at the LSV in 2015. A thrilling contest went Leigh’s way 22-18. Who could forget the televised clash at Hilton Park in 2001. Salford with a 0-12 lead thanks to Warren Jowitt’s debut brace of tries looked comfortable on what was a very heavy pitch. Leigh however really dug in and with some excellent play came out with a 16-12 victory.

Rewind back to the 1980s Salford this time were winners twice at The Willows. 12-3 in the 80/81 season and 12-5 in the 82/83 season.

What can we expect on Friday night? Salford’s last visit to Leigh ended with a 25-0 drubbing towards the end of the regular season in 2017. It’s been a slow start to the 2018 campaign but now the Centurions are beginning to find there feat in what is a very tough looking Championship competition.

Despite being a League below Salford, Leigh certainly have players that can ask questions of the Red Devil’s defence. Half back Ben Reynolds can unlock defences and the pace in the three quarters with Matty Dawson and Jack Owens will be a threat. There’s plenty of top flight experience in the Leigh side with Mick Higham and former Salford favourite Harrison Hansen. Another ex Red Devil Liam Hood provides the pace around the ruck.

Both sides have other aspirations this season with Leigh aiming for a top four finish and another crack at the qualifying eights for a swift return to Super League. For Salford they will be desperate to finish in the top eight and avoid what looks like a very tricky prospect of the Qualifiers. With Toronto, Toulouse and London all currently up there,those away ties could prove really tough.

The Wembley dream is alive in the hearts of the Leigh and Salford faithful. It’s been a long time between drinks for both tonight’s sides. Victory tonight and the reward is a Quarter Final tie and just two games from Wembley.

Here are some of the previous Challenge Cup meetings between the two sides over the years.

May 21st 1959 round 3 Leigh 6 Salford 6.

May 25th 1959 replay Salford 4 Leigh 6.

March 1st 1981 round 2 Salford 12 Leigh 3.

February 13th 1983 round 1 Salford 12 Leigh 5.

February 11th 2001 round 4 Leigh 16 Salford 12.

April 18th 2015 round 5 Leigh 22 Salford 18.

Pictures by Steve McCormick 📸

Enjoy the game everyone. Paul Whiteside.

Salford Crash out of cup

Leigh were in good form coming in to tonight’s clash after turning their league form round in the past few months. Salford were on the back of two heavy defeats to St. Helens and Wigan and looking to get back on track in the Challenge Cup.

Ben Nakubuwai, George Griffin, Niall Evalds and Mark Flanagan all returned to the Salford line up after missing last week. 

Former Red Devil’s forward Harrison Hansen started in the pack for the Centurions, theit side boasting plenty of Super League experience.

Jamie Acton’s mistake on the second tackle of the match paved the way for a Salford attack. After good strong running from Nakubuwai, Evalds bags the first try of the game.

Both sides traded sets in the opening quarter before George Griffin powered over from close range to double the lead.

Leigh full back Peter Mata’utia sets up a well worked try for half back Ben Reynolds to scoot under the posts to put the Centurions right back in the contest. Moments later a Salford mistake gives Leigh the opportunity to attack. Sloppy tackling and Harrison brushes off defenders to level the scores. Reynolds conversion edged Leigh ahead at 12-10.

As the first half progressed both sides created chances with the game being played at a frantic pace.

Greg Johnson came close to giving Salford the lead just before the break but tremendous goal defence from Leigh kept there line intact.

Salford’s start to the second half can only be described as lacklustre. Two mistakes in the opening two sets.

Leigh were denied by the video referee but moments later hooker Daniel Mortimer burrowed over from dummy half. Reynolds conversion opened up an 8 point lead 18-10.

As the game entered the final quarter Leigh continued to dictate proceedings piling on the pressure. For Salford the silly errors continued to hamper their progress.

The Centurions veteran hooker Mickey Higham played a key role leading his side around the park. Half backs Drew Hutchinson and Ben Reynolds bossed the game for the home side and were rewarded with their fourth try of the night to seal the place in the quarter final draw. Drew Hutchinson scoring from close range with three minutes remaining.

Salford’s errors and poor defence really cost them. Leigh were far superior in every department.

Ian Watson speaking after the game said “we’ve completed 4 sets out of 21 in the second half and that’s not good enough whatever level you play at”.

Final score at The Leigh Sports Village Leigh 22 Salford 10

Paul Whiteside

Pictures by G Lyons

Leigh v Salford Challenge Cup preview

The Challenge Cup is the Holy Grail to many rugby league supporters of teams who have been out of the lime light for a while. Salford have won the famous trophy just once in 1938. Lance Todd’s great side beat Barrow 7-4 at Wembley. The Red Devil’s last appearance in the show piece final came in 1969 an 11-6 defeat against Castleford.Even through Salford’s glory days of the 1970s the Challenge cup was always the one that got away with disappointing defeats right through the decade.

Leigh have two Challenge Cup wins to there name 1921 and the famous 24-7 victory over big guns Leeds in 1971. Player coach Alex Murphy involved in an incident that saw Leeds player Syd Hynes become the first player to be sent off in The Final. Tries from Stan Dorrington and David Eckersley along with four drop goals and Stuart Ferguson’s goal kicking claimed a memorable win.

Eckersley shaping to drop and goal but then gliding over to score under the posts one of the many highlights.

Leigh were beaten in the semi final of 1974 against Featherstone Rovers and went down 14-8 in the 1987 semi final against St. Helens.

In recent years the Centurions have had some excellent cup runs reaching the Quarter Finals in 2012, 2014 and 2015. 2014 a real valiant effort at Headingly when they were unlucky to lose to Leeds 25-12.

Salford have appeared in four Semi Finals in the last 30 years. Beaten at Burden Park Bolton in 1988 against Wigan, in 1997 the newly promoted Salford Reds appeared in Super League for the first time an excellent cup run defeating top flight opposition all the way was ended at Central Park against St. Helens. The following year a heart breaking defeat at Headingly against Sheffield Eagles 22-18. Salford were 18-10 up in the second half at one stage. Last season Ian Watson’s Salford Red Devil’s were beaten in the semi final by Wigan.

In recent years when it comes to cup meetings between the two sides Leigh have had the edge. The last meeting came at the LSV in 2015. A thrilling contest went Leigh’s way 22-18. Who could forget the televised clash at Hilton Park in 2001. Salford with a 0-12 lead thanks to Warren Jowitt’s debut brace of tries looked comfortable on what was a very heavy pitch. Leigh however really dug in and with some excellent play came out with a 16-12 victory.

Rewind back to the 1980s Salford this time were winners twice at The Willows. 12-3 in the 80/81 season and 12-5 in the 82/83 season.

What can we expect on Friday night? Salford’s last visit to Leigh ended with a 25-0 drubbing towards the end of the regular season in 2017. It’s been a slow start to the 2018 campaign but now the Centurions are beginning to find there feat in what is a very tough looking Championship competition.

Despite being a League below Salford, Leigh certainly have players that can ask questions of the Red Devil’s defence. Half back Ben Reynolds can unlock defences and the pace in the three quarters with Matty Dawson and Jack Owens will be a threat. There’s plenty of top flight experience in the Leigh side with Mick Higham and former Salford favourite Harrison Hansen. Another ex Red Devil Liam Hood provides the pace around the ruck.

Both sides have other aspirations this season with Leigh aiming for a top four finish and another crack at the qualifying eights for a swift return to Super League. For Salford they will be desperate to finish in the top eight and avoid what looks like a very tricky prospect of the Qualifiers. With Toronto, Toulouse and London all currently up there,those away ties could prove really tough.

The Wembley dream is alive in the hearts of the Leigh and Salford faithful. It’s been a long time between drinks for both tonight’s sides. Victory tonight and the reward is a Quarter Final tie and just two games from Wembley.

Here are some of the previous Challenge Cup meetings between the two sides over the years.

May 21st 1959 round 3 Leigh 6 Salford 6.

May 25th 1959 replay Salford 4 Leigh 6.

March 1st 1981 round 2 Salford 12 Leigh 3.

February 13th 1983 round 1 Salford 12 Leigh 5.

February 11th 2001 round 4 Leigh 16 Salford 12.

April 18th 2015 round 5 Leigh 22 Salford 18.

Pictures by Steve McCormick 

Enjoy the game everyone. Paul Whiteside.

Sportszone Report Wigan 30 Salford 0

PATCHED UP SALFORD GET HARSH LESSON.

With some key personnel missing an away trip to Wigan was always going to be a tough assignment for Ian Watson and his Salford Red Devil’s side. 

Rob Lui was still missing and Niall Evalds was out following the failure of his head test last week. Gavin Bennion and Levy Nzoungo returned for there loan at Swinton Lions to make there Salford debuts.

The opening 20 minutes was a real arm wrestle, Salford really stood up in defence as Wigan dictated the speed of the game. The home side missed a few chances to take the lead spilling the ball after two half breaks. 

Oliver Gildart scored the first points of the night slicing through to step past Salford full back Derrell Olpherts. Moments later the hosts doubled there lead. Jake Bibby allowed the ball to bounce from a teasing kick, Tony Clubb taking full advantage to charge over. 

George Williams made it three tries in nine minutes on the half hour mark as he showed really strength to power over. Sam Tomkins converting all three tries to give the Warriors a comfortable 18-0 half time lead.

Salford’s defence at the start of the second half was again tested by Wigan. Bibby and Kris Welham coming up with a great effort to stop Gildart. 

It took seventeen minutes of the second half before Salford’s brave resistance was breached. Sam Tomkins burrowing over from close range. 

Salford’s lack of territorial advantage and possession was alarming at times. Half backs Jack Littlejohn and Jake Shorrocks unable to get a foot hold in the match.

Tomkins grabbed his second try thirteen minutes from time before John Bateman rounded Wigan’s evening off with a try.

Salford failed to register a point for the second time this season. Despite some late pressure The Red Devil’s couldn’t force there way over the line to give there 

loyal followers something to cheer.

Ian Watson is doing things tough with his small squad being tested to the limit. Speaking to Ian after the game he said “ I know I’ve got to be a bit smarter this year the way we manage the squad. This is where you find out what you are about. We might learn a tough lesson but those lessons are better for you going forward.”

Salford now turn there attention to the Challenge cup tie at Leigh next Friday. 

Final score tonight Wigan Warriors 30 Salford Red Devil’s 0.

Report by Paul Whiteside 

Pictures by Steve McCormick 📸

wigan v salford match report

PATCHED UP SALFORD GET HARSH LESSON.

With some key personnel missing an away trip to Wigan was always going to be a tough assignment for Ian Watson and his Salford Red Devil’s side. 

Rob Lui was still missing and Niall Evalds was out following the failure of his head test last week. Gavin Bennion and Levy Nzoungo returned for there loan at Swinton Lions to make there Salford debuts.

The opening 20 minutes was a real arm wrestle, Salford really stood up in defence as Wigan dictated the speed of the game. The home side missed a few chances to take the lead spilling the ball after two half breaks. 

Oliver Gildart scored the first points of the night slicing through to step past Salford full back Derrell Olpherts. Moments later the hosts doubled there lead. Jake Bibby allowed the ball to bounce from a teasing kick, Tony Clubb taking full advantage to charge over. 

George Williams made it three tries in nine minutes on the half hour mark as he showed really strength to power over. Sam Tomkins converting all three tries to give the Warriors a comfortable 18-0 half time lead.

Salford’s defence at the start of the second half was again tested by Wigan. Bibby and Kris Welham coming up with a great effort to stop Gildart. 

It took seventeen minutes of the second half before Salford’s brave resistance was breached. Sam Tomkins burrowing over from close range. 

Salford’s lack of territorial advantage and possession was alarming at times. Half backs Jack Littlejohn and Jake Shorrocks unable to get a foot hold in the match.

Tomkins grabbed his second try thirteen minutes from time before John Bateman rounded Wigan’s evening off with a try.

Salford failed to register a point for the second time this season. Despite some late pressure The Red Devil’s couldn’t force there way over the line to give there 

loyal followers something to cheer.

Ian Watson is doing things tough with his small squad being tested to the limit. Speaking to Ian after the game he said “ I know I’ve got to be a bit smarter this year the way we manage the squad. This is where you find out what you are about. We might learn a tough lesson but those lessons are better for you going forward.”

Salford now turn there attention to the Challenge cup tie at Leigh next Friday. 

Final score tonight Wigan Warriors 30 Salford Red Devil’s 0.

Paul Whiteside.

Pictures by Steve McCormick