Summer weather returned to West Yorkshire and Salford put on a scorching display of attacking Rugby League. Scoring 12 tries in the match was one thing but limiting a prolific Championship side to just 4 points was equally pleasing for Red Devil’s coach Ian Watson.
Halifax made a bright start and there pace out wide shone in the early stages. Chester Butler made a thrilling break as the hosts grabbed the games first try from Sam Wood.
Moments later however Salford were level as Jackson Hastings continued his Super form to touch down.
Halifax continued to press and ask questions but Salford were resilient once again with there defence.
A high kick caught the hosts out with nothing on Kris Welham off loaded to Ed Chamberlain who scored the try. Chamberlain’s conversion hit the post but luck was with Salford as it went over 4-10.
Derrell Olpherts grabbed a try on the back of Will Sharp’s mistake before Ben Nakubuwai powered on to a short pass to reach out to score under the posts.
At 4-20 Salford now looked comfortable and capable of scoring at any time.
Olpherts went in for his second try after a superb last tackle play as the ball was kept alive. Confidence was now soaring through The Red Devil’s and the try of the half came right on the half time hooter. Robert Lui floated a wonderful pass out for Chamberlain who put Welham in. 4-30 at half time.
Halifax came close on the first play of the second half through speedster Ben Heaton. Chamberlain coming up with a try saving tackle.
Hastings ghosted through before sending winger Olpherts away to complete a well deserved hat trick. Salford’s travelling support behind the posts were in fantastic numbers and the huge noise they made contributed to what was a great atmosphere inside The Shay.
Lama Tasi and Junior Sau grabbed tries before Hastings went in for his second against a tired Halifax defence. With 9 minutes left the all action worker that is Josh Wood scooted over before Sau rounded off the scoring with a last gasp try.
Ian Watson was very pleased with his sides all round performance and will now prepare for a tricky looking match next Saturday against Toronto Wolfpack.
For Salford it’s the perfect start to the Qualifiers with three wins and just 20 points conceded. One game at a time is the way Watson is taking it but the Salford supporters have every right to be optimistic.
Final score Halifax RLFC 4 Salford Red Devils 62
Paul Whiteside.
Pictures by Steve McCormick
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