As the sun slowly faded the pictorial back drop of the Pyrenees mountains were a sight to be hold. As far as away trips go this has to be one the most exciting for any supporter. The home fans fanaticism certainly made the pre match atmosphere a real spectacle. Add to that Salford’s super travelling support the scene was set.
Fresh from a thrilling home victory over the much fancied Warrington Wolves a week ago The Dragons came in to the match as favourites. Salford however had two Away wins already this season.
After missing the last two matches Mark Flanagan returned for The Red Devils at loose forward. Jake Bibby started at centre in place of Junior Sau and Adam Lawton back from his loan at Rochdale Hornets made the Salford bench.
Catalans were without Lance Todd Trophy winner Tony Gigot.
The first real action came from full back Sam Tomkins breaking through. Jackson Hastings with a good cover tackle to snuff out the danger.
Joey Lussick got the games first points with a real poachers try close to the line. Ken Sio converting to give Salford a 0-6 lead.
The Red Devils started to grow in confidence as the first half progressed bossing the first 20 minutes of the game.
Tomkins spilled Hastings high kick and a Salford penalty followed. Sio cautiously added the two points on offer.
The Dragons applied plenty of pressure of there own but Salford defended there goal superbly.
The visitors hard work was then rewarded 3 minutes before half time Robert Lui sending George Griffin racing to the line to touch down, Sio’s goal made it 0-14.
As the hooter sounded Matty Smith desperately kicks through as the Dragons attacked. Sio picked up cleanly and Salford break. Hastings and Sio combine, Bibby touched down for a fantastic try. After referring to the video referee the try is awarded. Arguably Salford’s best 40 minutes of the season.
The first attack of the second half Niall Evalds put Jake Bibby Away with a lovely pass. The Red Devils broke cutting the Dragons to pieces, Hastings and Bibby linked up before Bibby touches down for a thrilling try.
Salford’s confidence was soaring as Hastings floated a pass out left for Bibby and Evalds to slice through once again. Fantastic support play saw Griffin charge over for another fine try.
Hastings then got in on the scoring act with a well deserved try. Bibby’s slick off load sending the Australian in.
Salford’s 7th try soon followed and it was built on tremendous support play yet again. Some nice work from Lussick before Evalds gets the try.
The Dragons had no answer to what was turning into a near perfect performance from Ian Watson’s men.
A barrage of penalties made Salford do plenty of defensive work but the desire was admirable for a side in such a commanding lead.
A strange decision by the referee saw Salford on a team warning but the Dragons continued to clutch at straws looking rudderless with the ball.
Man of the moment Bibby then sent Sio in with another great pass in the final minute. On his first appearance of the season Bibby played his heart out and got my man of the match. There were so many contenders though in what was a huge team effort.
Ian Watson speaking after the match applauded his sides effort in defence as well as an amazing attacking display. Watson also paid tribute to Salford’s travelling support who yet again sang there hearts out giving the whole side a huge boost.
The Red Devils are back in action next Sunday at Weldon Road when they face Castleford.
Final score Catalans 0 Salford 46
Paul Whiteside.
Pictures by Steve McCormick
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