London V Salford Match report DITD

Ian Watson and his Salford side arrived in London on the train after a first class trip from Manchester. It was another fine detail that worked perfectly, with the players relaxed and focused after two tough Easter’s fixtures.

Adam Walker failed a late fitness test paving the way for Mark Flanagan to return to the side.

After spurning early kick able penalty goals The Red Devil’s persistence paid off when Joey Lussick scored another trade mark try from close after just five minutes.

This began a real period of dominance for the visitors who continued to complete their sets playing a solid, methodical style of rugby.

Niall Evalds had just equalled Stuart Littler’s Super League try record of 65 in recent weeks and when Josh Jones’s off load landed in the full backs arms their was only one place he was going. Evalds darting over to touch down with Krisnan Inu converting 0-12.

After Monday’s penalty filled match against Wigan this game was becoming the complete opposite. Salford’s discipline was not far from impeccable in the first half. With a fantastic completion rate and errors at a minimum London struggled to get any momentum.

Two tries in four minutes sealed a perfect forty minutes. The hard working Jackson Hastings shot through a gap and Daniel Murray was in support to roar over. The young prop making it two tries in three matches to delight the travelling Salford faithful. Hastings then scored a superb individual try of his own. Weaving his way through a tired Broncos defence showing his fantastic footwork skills. Inu made it four from four with the boot.

Jake Bibby came close to scoring just before the break but terrific cover defence denied him.

After two hours of rugby league between the two sides this season London finally posted a try. Rhys Williams finished well in the corner to give London a glimmer of hope 4-24.

Salford played a very conservative style of play which was understandable after the tough schedule of fixtures. 

Lee Mossop made the game safe on his return from injury powering over under the sticks seventeen minutes from time.

Matt Fleming scored a rather fortuitous try for the Broncos in the closing stages. This was Salford’s day though with the Red Devil’s making it 5 wins from 7 matches on the road this season. 

In a fixture where the attitude needed to be perfect Watson and his team did a thoroughly professional job. Salford didn’t need to be flamboyant as this was all about getting the two points.

Ian Watson speaking after the match was pleased with how his side controlled the game but stated room for improvement. “We had a really good spell first half, second a little bit inconsistent but may be that’s down to a little bit of fatigue and concentration.”

Salford face Leeds at The AJ Bell Stadium on Friday night with Watson looking to right a few wrongs from the fixture between the two sides earlier in the season. “I think we owe them one, we have a responsibility as a team to show them our best performance. Last time out we were poor and need to represent ourselves the right way this time.”

London Broncos 10 Salford 30

Paul Whiteside.

Pictures by Steve McCormick 

London v Salford Big match preview DITD

After their thrilling victory over Toronto Wolfpack in The Million pound game

London Broncos became immediate favourites for relegation in 2019.

Head Coach Danny Ward’s recruitment was modest but at the same time some clever signings were made.

With a nucleus of good young players their is also plenty of experience in The Broncos 2019 squad. Ward has kept faith in his heroes of 2018.

An opening round thumping of Wakefield Trinity gave London the perfect start to life in Rugby League’s big time. A surprise victory over Leeds at Headingley and at home to Wigan just shows they can upset the odds on their day

The two sides met earlier in the season with Salford running out 24-0 after a real solid display at The AJ Bell Stadium.

A disappointing Challenge Cup exit away at Halifax highlights the poor run of form London are currently on. Since the triumph at Headingley in March five straight league defeats have followed. Despite the poor form The Broncos put in a real battling display had Huddersfield on Easter Monday before going down 24-19 to a late try.

Super League away record.

London 10

Draws 1

Salford 8

1997 London 48 Salford 12

1998 London 21 Salford 12

1999 London 28 Salford 14

2000 London 24 Salford 33

2000 London 10 Salford 16

2001 London 14 Salford 37

2002 London 26 Salford 19

2004 London 35 Salford 30

2005 London 34 Salford 18

2006 Harlequins 40 Salford 18

2007 Harlequins 18 Salford 18

2007 Harlequins 22 Salford 16

2009 Harlequins 22 Salford 26

2010 Harlequins 22 Salford 26

2011 Harlequins 16 Salford 24

2012 London 40 Salford 28

2013 London 30 Salford 44

2014 London 18 Salford 44

2018 London 11 Salford 8 (qualifiers)

They played for both

Since Fulham made there debut season in 1980 there have been a lot of players to represent the capitals team (Fulham,London,Harlequins)and Salford, here are a selection;

Steven Bannister, Radney Bowker, Andrew Brocklehurst, Luke Burgess, Mason Caton Brown, David Cruikshank, Luke Dorn, David Driver, Carl Forster, Matt Gardner, Matty Gee, Tony Gourley, George Griffin, Gareth Haggerty, Tim Hartley, David Highton, Andy Johnson, Ben Jones Bishop, Olsi Krasniqi, Tommy Lee, Ian Maccorquodale, Martin Offiah, Rob Parker, Gareth Price, Jon Roper, Darren Shaw, Andy Smith, Anthony Stewart, Trevor Stockley and Josh White.

A match to remember Saturday 17th February 2007.

Harlequins 18 Salford 18.

Remind to round two of Super League just over twelve years ago.

After an agonising 26-30 defeat at home to Leeds in front of over 8,000 supporters in round one Salford travelled to The Stoop for this Saturday evening clash.

Harlequins had former Australian Test star Scott Hill at standoff along side former Castleford player Danny Orr who played scrum half.

Salford had a new half back of their own in Luke Dorn. Michael Korkidas and Mark Edmondson were both in the starting lineup for the City Reds after joining for 2007.

Early tries by Tyrone Smith, Chris Melling and Paul Sykes put Quins ahead before John Wilshere and Luke Robinson brought the Reds back into the game.

Salford struggled to grab a foot hold in the match after such a poor start but their endeavour and hard work was rewarded as they fought back to 14-10 at half time.

After the restart, Robinson’s failure to hold on to Rinaldi in the tackle let him score and restore Quins’ cushion.

It looked to be enough until Henry Paul’s misjudged kick launched a Reds counter, finishing in a try for AndyColey. With the scores at 18-14 a frantic finish followed. Another poor kick this time from Orr allowed Salford one last throw of the dice. Michael Korkidas crashed over to delight the travelling supporters and tie the scores at 18-18.

It fell to David Hodgson to try and seal a famous win but his missed goal ensured the game ended as dramatically as it had started. Both sides with four tries and three missed conversions had to settle for a draw and a point a piece.

The teams that day;

Harlequins, Melling, Wells, Sykes, Smith, Gaffa, Hill, Orr, Te Mata, Randall, Mills, Purdham, Hopkins, Paul.

Subs, Rinaldi, McCarthy-Scarsbrook, Grayshon, Worrincy.

Salford, Hodgson, Halliwell, Mcguinness, Littler, Wilshere, Dorn, Robinson, Coley, Alker, Korkidas, Edmondson, Adamson, Finnigan.

Subs, Haggerty, Jewitt, Williams, Brocklehurst.

Referee, Phil Bentham.

Saturday’s match.

This clash is particularly significant to both sides. With London at the foot of the table on six points victory could potentially see them leap frog Leeds Rhinos. Wigan and Hull Kingston Rovers sit just above on eight points.

For Salford their is a slight danger this season could turn into a year of ‘what could of been’. The Red Devil’s have come up short frustratingly in a number of games now and could quite easily of been sitting a lot higher in the League Table.

After a thrilling second half fight back against Wigan on Easter Monday, basic errors were again Salford’s down fall.

In the corresponding fixture a few months ago Ian Watson’s men had to work hard for the 24-0 victory. London however seem a different prospect on their home ground and with the gruelling Easter period just behind both teams this match could be all about endurance.

The Broncos have plenty of pace in the back line and with the recent warm weather conditions The Trailfinders Sports Club is almost certain to be a dry and fast pitch.

Not many people gave London a chance of survival this season but after the opening twelve rounds they have proved they will fight tooth and nail for every point they can.

This should be another fascinating encounter, safe travels and enjoy the game everyone.

Pictures by Steve McCormick 

Paul Whiteside.

London v Salford Sportszone Match report

Ian Watson and his Salford side arrived in London on the train after a first class trip from Manchester. It was another fine detail that worked perfectly, with the players relaxed and focused after two tough Easter’s fixtures.

Adam Walker failed a late fitness test paving the way for Mark Flanagan to return to the side.

After spurning early kick able penalty goals The Red Devil’s persistence paid off when Joey Lussick scored another trade mark try from close after just five minutes.

This began a real period of dominance for the visitors who continued to complete their sets playing a solid, methodical style of rugby.

Niall Evalds had just equalled Stuart Littler’s Super League try record of 65 in recent weeks and when Josh Jones’s off load landed in the full backs arms their was only one place he was going. Evalds darting over to touch down with Krisnan Inu converting 0-12.

After Monday’s penalty filled match against Wigan this game was becoming the complete opposite. Salford’s discipline was not far from impeccable in the first half. With a fantastic completion rate and errors at a minimum London struggled to get any momentum.

Two tries in four minutes sealed a perfect forty minutes. The hard working Jackson Hastings shot through a gap and Daniel Murray was in support to roar over. The young prop making it two tries in three matches to delight the travelling Salford faithful. Hastings then scored a superb individual try of his own. Weaving his way through a tired Broncos defence showing his fantastic footwork skills. Inu made it four from four with the boot.

Jake Bibby came close to scoring just before the break but terrific cover defence denied him.

After two hours of rugby league between the two sides this season London finally posted a try. Rhys Williams finished well in the corner to give London a glimmer of hope 4-24.

Salford played a very conservative style of play which was understandable after the tough schedule of fixtures. 

Lee Mossop made the game safe on his return from injury powering over under the sticks seventeen minutes from time.

Matt Fleming scored a rather fortuitous try for the Broncos in the closing stages. This was Salford’s day though with the Red Devil’s making it 5 wins from 7 matches on the road this season. 

In a fixture where the attitude needed to be perfect Watson and his team did a thoroughly professional job. Salford didn’t need to be flamboyant as this was all about getting the two points.

Ian Watson speaking after the match was pleased with how his side controlled the game but stated room for improvement. “We had a really good spell first half, second a little bit inconsistent but may be that’s down to a little bit of fatigue and concentration.”

Salford face Leeds at The AJ Bell Stadium on Friday night with Watson looking to right a few wrongs from the fixture between the two sides earlier in the season. “I think we owe them one, we have a responsibility as a team to show them our best performance. Last time out we were poor and need to represent ourselves the right way this time.”

London Broncos 10 Salford 30

Paul Whiteside.

Pictures by Steve McCormick 

London v Salford Sportszone preview

After their thrilling victory over Toronto Wolfpack in The Million pound game

London Broncos became immediate favourites for relegation in 2019.

Head Coach Danny Ward’s recruitment was modest but at the same time some clever signings were made.

With a nucleus of good young players their is also plenty of experience in The Broncos 2019 squad. Ward has kept faith in his heroes of 2018.

An opening round thumping of Wakefield Trinity gave London the perfect start to life in Rugby League’s big time. A surprise victory over Leeds at Headingley and at home to Wigan just shows they can upset the odds on their day

The two sides met earlier in the season with Salford running out 24-0 after a real solid display at The AJ Bell Stadium.

A disappointing Challenge Cup exit away at Halifax highlights the poor run of form London are currently on. Since the triumph at Headingley in March five straight league defeats have followed. Despite the poor form The Broncos put in a real battling display had Huddersfield on Easter Monday before going down 24-19 to a late try.

Super League away record.

London 10

Draws 1

Salford 8

1997 London 48 Salford 12

1998 London 21 Salford 12

1999 London 28 Salford 14

2000 London 24 Salford 33

2000 London 10 Salford 16

2001 London 14 Salford 37

2002 London 26 Salford 19

2004 London 35 Salford 30

2005 London 34 Salford 18

2006 Harlequins 40 Salford 18

2007 Harlequins 18 Salford 18

2007 Harlequins 22 Salford 16

2009 Harlequins 22 Salford 26

2010 Harlequins 22 Salford 26

2011 Harlequins 16 Salford 24

2012 London 40 Salford 28

2013 London 30 Salford 44

2014 London 18 Salford 44

2018 London 11 Salford 8 (qualifiers)

They played for both

Since Fulham made there debut season in 1980 there have been a lot of players to represent the capitals team (Fulham,London,Harlequins)and Salford, here are a selection;

Steven Bannister, Radney Bowker, Andrew Brocklehurst, Luke Burgess, Mason Caton Brown, David Cruikshank, Luke Dorn, David Driver, Carl Forster, Matt Gardner, Matty Gee, Tony Gourley, George Griffin, Gareth Haggerty, Tim Hartley, David Highton, Andy Johnson, Ben Jones Bishop, Olsi Krasniqi, Tommy Lee, Ian Maccorquodale, Martin Offiah, Rob Parker, Gareth Price, Jon Roper, Darren Shaw, Andy Smith, Anthony Stewart, Trevor Stockley and Josh White.

A match to remember Saturday 17th February 2007.

Harlequins 18 Salford 18.

Remind to round two of Super League just over twelve years ago.

After an agonising 26-30 defeat at home to Leeds in front of over 8,000 supporters in round one Salford travelled to The Stoop for this Saturday evening clash.

Harlequins had former Australian Test star Scott Hill at standoff along side former Castleford player Danny Orr who played scrum half.

Salford had a new half back of their own in Luke Dorn. Michael Korkidas and Mark Edmondson were both in the starting lineup for the City Reds after joining for 2007.

Early tries by Tyrone Smith, Chris Melling and Paul Sykes put Quins ahead before John Wilshere and Luke Robinson brought the Reds back into the game.

Salford struggled to grab a foot hold in the match after such a poor start but their endeavour and hard work was rewarded as they fought back to 14-10 at half time.

After the restart, Robinson’s failure to hold on to Rinaldi in the tackle let him score and restore Quins’ cushion.

It looked to be enough until Henry Paul’s misjudged kick launched a Reds counter, finishing in a try for AndyColey. With the scores at 18-14 a frantic finish followed. Another poor kick this time from Orr allowed Salford one last throw of the dice. Michael Korkidas crashed over to delight the travelling supporters and tie the scores at 18-18.

It fell to David Hodgson to try and seal a famous win but his missed goal ensured the game ended as dramatically as it had started. Both sides with four tries and three missed conversions had to settle for a draw and a point a piece.

The teams that day;

Harlequins, Melling, Wells, Sykes, Smith, Gaffa, Hill, Orr, Te Mata, Randall, Mills, Purdham, Hopkins, Paul.

Subs, Rinaldi, McCarthy-Scarsbrook, Grayshon, Worrincy.

Salford, Hodgson, Halliwell, Mcguinness, Littler, Wilshere, Dorn, Robinson, Coley, Alker, Korkidas, Edmondson, Adamson, Finnigan.

Subs, Haggerty, Jewitt, Williams, Brocklehurst.

Referee, Phil Bentham.

Attendance, 3,515.

Saturday’s match.

This clash is particularly significant to both sides. With London at the foot of the table on six points victory could potentially see them leap frog Leeds Rhinos. Wigan and Hull Kingston Rovers sit just above on eight points.

For Salford their is a slight danger this season could turn into a year of ‘what could of been’. The Red Devil’s have come up short frustratingly in a number of games now and could quite easily of been sitting a lot higher in the League Table.

After a thrilling second half fight back against Wigan on Easter Monday, basic errors were again Salford’s down fall.

In the corresponding fixture a few months ago Ian Watson’s men had to work hard for the 24-0 victory. London however seem a different prospect on their home ground and with the gruelling Easter period just behind both teams this match could be all about endurance.

The Broncos have plenty of pace in the back line and with the recent warm weather conditions The Trailfinders Sports Club is almost certain to be a dry and fast pitch.

Not many people gave London a chance of survival this season but after the opening twelve rounds they have proved they will fight tooth and nail for every point they can.

This should be another fascinating encounter, safe travels and enjoy the game everyone.

Pictures by Steve McCormick 

Paul Whiteside.

Salford 26 Wigan 30 DITD Report

After Salford’s heroics on Good Friday it was back to The AJ Bell Stadium to face Wigan Warriors on Easter Monday.

The Warriors had suffered a derby defeat to local rivals St Helens and were in desperate need of an upturn in form.

Ian Watson made changes at half back with Josh Wood coming in for Robert Lui. Junior Sau replaced Kris Welham at centre and Logan Tomkins started at hooker with Joey Lussick on the bench.

Wigan played a very physical and sometimes very close to the knuckle style of play for the full 80 minutes. They made their intentions known from the kick off as Ben Flower clattered Gil Dudson. Moments later Dudson left the field with a head injury and didn’t return. 

This seemed to unsettle and knock Salford off their game. Joe Burgess scored the games first try on eight minutes.

Krisnan Inu then kicked out on the full from the kick off, this in turn handed more momentum to the Warriors as they piled the pressure on forcing a drop out. Zak Hardacker increased the advantage to 0-8 from a penalty goal.

Again from the kick off Inu kicked out on the full allowing Wigan to attack from yet another good position. The powerful Joe Bullock hit a nice short pass on the burst to crash over. The conversion was good moving The Warriors in to a 0-14.

Referee Ben Thaler continued to blow for penalties as his afternoon got busier.

Three penalties on the trot followed for Salford as the home crowd roared for a team warning from Mr Thaler. 

The Red Devil’s were finally rewarded for their honest endeavour with a try from George Griffin. The hard working second rower put yet another amazing shift in this afternoon working tirelessly in attack and defence.

Wigan eventually received a team warning ten minutes before the break.

George Williams darted through only to knock on over the line to Salford’s relief to round off a hectic first half.

Jackson Hastings clicked in to gear to set up the first points of the second half. Salford’s linchpin soaring through a gap to set up the supporting Niall Evalds to score a well worked try.

Wigan hit back when Joe Greenwood used his height to reach out to score. 

Greenwood’s try came on the back of a real 50/50 call from referee Thaler. A high kick was spilled by The Warriors under intense Red Devil’s pressure. Thaler adjudged Salford as offside.

At 12-20 Watson’s men needed a response quickly and they certainly got one.

Inu with a short kick off set up a thrilling attack. Daniel Murray crashed over but just lost the ball over the line. Moments later though their was no denying Adam Walker as he smashed his way to the line like a freight train. Inu’s conversion left Salford just two points behind 18-20.

Niall Evalds came so close to scoring, deciding to pass to winger Jake Bibby who had just miss timed and over run the ball.

Salford kept prodding and being roared on by the fantastic vocal home supporters took the lead for the first time in the match. Joey Lussick diving over from close range for a try that has become the trade mark of the young Australian. Inu added the conversion and shortly after a penalty goal to nudge his side into a 26-20 lead with just ten minutes remaining.

Derrell Olpherts came up with a huge error knocking the ball on in his own half returning a kick. Wigan attacked against a tired Salford defence and Greenwood grabbed his second try. Hardacker hit the post with his conversion attempt to leave the scores at 26-24 going into the closing minutes of a pulsating match.

George Williams came up with the match winning play piling pressure on Evalds who surrendered possession. The Warriors threw everything into what was a desperate attack. Zak Hardacker going over to break Salford hearts four minutes from time with the match winning score.

Salford coach Ian Watson was bitterly disappointed speaking after the match.

“Their is a load of disappointed people in the changing room at the moment.

We made quite a few errors at the beginning of the game to give them the impetus, got ourselves back into a position to win the game before a couple of individual errors cost us at the back end. Their wasn’t a lack of effort it was silly little dumb plays really.”

Salford are back in action next Saturday when they travel to London Broncos.

Salford 26 Wigan 30.

Paul Whiteside.

Pictures by Steve McCormick 

Salford v Wigan preview

Salford v Wigan-Match Preview.

The Easter weekend is always a special time for Rugby League supporters. After Salford’s victory over Warrington on Good Friday the players must be bouncing with confidence ahead of Wigan’s visit to The AJ Bell Stadium on Monday.

I am struggling for a word to describe Friday’s win. Yes we played some great rugby but also the grit and doggedness in defence set the platform for victory.

The attitude of the players was first class, the willingness to fight and chase every cause from minute one to eighty. It just shows in the sport of Rugby League if you enter a match half cooked or complacent your playing a dangerous game. That said the credit must go to Ian Watson, his staff and the players. They didn’t allow Warrington to play, giving the supporters a day to remember.

Wigan suffered their third consecutive defeat on Friday at home to bitter rivals St. Helens. Picking up injuries to Jake Shorrocks and Tom Davies who both had to be stretched off is another blow to the Warriors who are finding it tough to build any sort of momentum in 2019.

Despite the latest injury setbacks Wigan still have a side littered with world class international players. As we found out just less than a month ago in the last meeting between the two sides the pace and power The Warriors have at their disposal can cause any team problems.

Monday promises to be a fascinating encounter, victory for Salford could really build some momentum at a crucial point in the season. The month of May sees The Red Devil’s in some mouth watering league matches including the Magic Weekend clash and Challenge Cup tie with Hull Kingston Rovers.

Ian Watson continues to build his hard working down to earth ethos at Salford.

Ian and his staff have worked wonders on a tight budget over the past few years. The ability to spot players who have perhaps fell out of favour at their respective clubs and bring them to Salford get them in the best shape they can and really improve them is something Watson and his back room team have become experts at.

The home defeat to Wigan on the 24th March was a real disappointment to Ian and the team with Monday giving them a second chance to put things right.

50 years ago on Easter Monday 1969 Salford beat Wigan 37-5 at the Willows.

That was after victories on Good Friday and Easter Saturday. Tries that day came from Billy Burgess 2, Bob Burdell 2, Chris Hesketh, Colin Dixon and Charlie Bott. Hopefully their is a lucky omen in that for us somewhere.

Easter Memories From Yesteryear.

Blackpool Borough 7 Salford 49  Good Friday 1969 

Swinton 3  Salford 19  Easter Saturday 1969

Salford 37 Wigan 5  Easter Monday 1969

Barrow 16 Salford 20 Good Friday 1971

Swinton 20 Salford 23  Easter Saturday 1971

Salford 16 Wigan 7 Easter Monday 1971

Salford 30 Swinton 22 Good Friday 1976

Wigan 15 Salford 24 Easter Monday 1976

Salford 13 Leigh 12 Good Friday 1981

Oldham 18 Salford 18 Easter Monday 1981

Blackpool Borough 4 Salford 30 Good Friday 1985

Salford 5 Swinton 9 Easter Monday 1985

Salford 18 Leigh 11 Good Friday 1991

Swinton 10 Salford 10 Easter Monday 1991

Salford 35 Oldham 26 Good Friday 1997

Salford 27 Paris 26 Easter Monday 1997

Salford 18 Warrington 16 Good Friday 2009

Leeds 20  Salford 30 Easter Monday 2009

Huddersfield 12 Salford 18  Good Friday 2015

Salford 24 Wigan 18 Easter Monday 2015

They played for both.

Over the years there have been plenty of players who’ve been at both clubs at some point in their career. Here are a few of them,

Mal Aspey, Neil Baynes, Steve Blakeley, Gavin Clinch, Andy Coley, Michael Dobson, Mark Flanagan, Martin Gleeson, Sean Gleeson, Wayne Godwin, Bobbie Goulding, Andy Gregory, Steve Hampson, Ged Byrne, Paul O Neil,

Harrison Hansen, Gareth Hock, Nathan Mcavoy, Lee Mossop, Jack Murphy, David Myers, Martin Offiah, Sam Panapa, John Pendlebury, Luke Robinson,

Tim Smith, David Stephenson, Trevor Stockey, Ged Stazicker, Scott Taylor, Logan Tomkins, Colin Whitfield, Stephen Wild and Phil Ford.

Monday’s match.

The big test now for Salford is to be consistent. With such a short turn around from a bruising fixture for both clubs it’s a real tough ask with rest and recovery vital leading up to the match.

The pressure continues to mount on Wigan with eight defeats already from their eleven matches. Add to that the on going saga of next season’s head coach the supporters are becoming frustrated at the uncertainty surrounding their famous club. With international players like Sean O Loughlin, Oliver Gildart, Joe Burgess, George Williams, Thomas Leuluai, Liam Farrell and Zak Hardacker it would be some what naive to write Wigan off just yet. 

The clock is certainly ticking on The Warriors 2019 playoff hopes. If a top five position is to be achieved their slip ups need to be at a minimum.

I firmly believe a victory for Salford on Monday could propel us to the next level in Super League.

Consistency is the key for a side that has proved they can match any team in the league on there day.

An intriguing encounter is definitely on the cards and a game not to be missed.

Safe travels and enjoy the game everyone.

Paul Whiteside.

Pictures by Steve McCormick 

Warrington v Salford match report DITD

Weather wise it was arguably the best day of the season so far. Warm temperatures, glorious sunshine and a very excited crowd just before kick off.

The swashbuckling Warrington Wolves ground to a halt against St. Helens last weekend leaving there supporters expecting a response. 

After four consecutive league defeats Ian Watson’s Salford side progressed in the Challenge Cup last Friday but today would provide the ultimate test against a side tipped by many for glory in 2019.

After withstanding early pressure Salford clicked in to gear scoring the opening try. Kris Welham touching down after a teasing kick through. Krishnan Inu adding the conversion. 

Greg Burke playing at loose forward showed some fantastic neat footwork to link up with Gil Dudson before hooker Joey Lussick crashed over via the padding on the goal posts. A brave effort from the young Australian giving Salford a great start. 

The Red Devil’s were swarming all over the Wolves in defence and with ball in hand continued to press through the heart of their hosts. Quick play the balls and a very mobile pack of forwards doing the damage. 

Robert Lui and Jackson Hastings at half back gave Warrington so much to think about linking up superbly at times.

Inu nudged Salford 0-14 ahead with a penalty goal just before the 20 minute mark.

Their is no doubting the world class calibre of player the Wolves possess and with Blake Austin they certainly have a gem. Austin charged over showing the power of a second row forward and the gifted talent of the wonderful half back he is to get Warrington on the score sheet.

The biggest cheer of the afternoon so far came when Daniel Murray fought his way over the line to score his first try of the season and his first Super League try for Salford. The young prop forward was delighted and so were Salford’s travelling army of supporters for a player who is a firm fans favourite.

The Wolves continued to threaten but you did get the feeling it wasn’t going to be there day with passing going astray. Ryan Atkins twice attempted to put Josh Charnley through the gap with the pass ending up in the crowd.

6 minutes before the break Inu again took the two points on offer from a penalty after Jackson Hastings was up ended in the tackle.

Robert Lui darted over for a crucial try just before the half time hooter as the Wolves defence parted like the Red Sea to offer up the gap for Salford’s number 6. Inu converted to send Salford in 6-28 up at half time after a near flawless 40 minute performance.

The first action of the second half saw Niall Evalds tackled without the ball in a try scoring situation. Inu again took the two points on offer from the penalty.

The game was then put to bed by a breath taking Salford move, Derrell Olpherts fed the scrum before the ball was fanned out across the pitch. Immaculate handling and crisp clean passing for Jake Bibby to dive over in the corner for the try of the game. 

With eighteen minutes remaining Welham was rather harshly sin binned by referee Gareth Hewer. Warrington made the extra man count scoring a try off the very next play. Bryson Goodwin finishing well.

Salford managed the remaining stages of the match about as clinical as is possible. Frustrating the Wolves with a punishing kicking game and some ferocious defence.

This performance could well of eclipsed the Catalans display from a month or so ago. From minute 1-80 Salford dominated and were a joy to watch.

Ian Watson’s side now face Wigan Warriors at home on Easter Monday.

Watson was delighted speaking after the match “our resilience to defend goal line was outstanding I thought the mentally of boys was terrific, it’s a great scalp for us.”

Warrington 12 Salford 36.

Paul Whiteside.

Pictures by Steve McCormick 

DITD Warrington v Salford big Match Preview

Salford v Warrington Wolves.

Warrington Wolves have made another great start to the season. Playing some free flowing expansive Rugby League, Steve Price’s team are looking to go one better in 2019 having missed out to Wigan in last years Grand Final.

Blake Austin has been a revelation at half back and despite losing Kevin Brown to a season ending injury The Wolves have so far filled the gap with the talented Declan Patton playing out of his skin. With Stefan Ratchford at full back and a very powerful and fast back line Price has all the tools in his arsenal to challenge at the very top once again. 

With 8 victories from the first 10 matches last weekend’s thumping at St. Helens raised a few eyebrows. Having said that Saints have again looked mesmerising with just one defeat themselves in Perpignan against Catalans.

Warrington and Salford have met on quite a number of occasions in the Super League era on Good Friday with both sides celebrating success.

The Wolves have certainly had the edge since their move to the new stadium. 

The League Championship is the ultimate goal for Warrington having not been champions since 1955. They’ve come mighty close over the last few years being beaten in the Grand Final’s of 2012, 2013, 2016 and 2018.

Despite these final disappointments the Wolves supporters have had plenty to cheer. Lifting the Challenge Cup at Wembley in 2009, 2010 and 2012.

Since leaving Wilderspool the club has gone from strength to strength. After slow progress at first the challenge cup final and trip to Wembley in 2009 caught the imagination of the supporters, attendances rocketed with the Wolves now one of the leading lights in the sport both on and off the field. 

This looks a tough task for Ian Watson and his Salford side but one they will relish having proved already this season they can be a match for anyone. 

A big crowd and special atmosphere is expected with this being a favourite away trip for many of Salford’s supporters. 

Super League away record.

Warrington 17

Draws 0

Salford 7

1997 Warrington 23 Salford 8

1998 Warrington 4 Salford 37

1999 Warrington 28 Salford 14

2000 Warrington 32 Salford 18

2000 Warrington 38 Salford 10

2001 Warrington 14 Salford 39

2002 Warrington 18 Salford 9

2002 Warrington 2 Salford 22

2004 Warrington 46 Salford 20

2005 Warrington 48 Salford 14

2005 Warrington 32 Salford 22

2006 Warrington 6 Salford 24

2006 Warrington 6 Salford 22

2007 Warrington 42 Salford 6

2009 Warrington 62 Salford 20

2010 Warrington 32 Salford 2

2011 Warrington 16 Salford 18

2012 Warrington 24 Salford 20

2013 Warrington 68 Salford 10

2014 Warrington 36 Salford 20

2015 Warrington 22 Salford 8

2016 Warrington 40 Salford 14

2017 Warrington 12 Salford 38

2018 Warrington 30 Salford 14

They played for both 

Here are a few players to wear the red of Salford and the primrose and blue of Warrington.

Vinny Anderson, Richie Barnett, Steve Blakeley, Martin Crompton, John Duffy, Phil Ford, Martin Gleeson, Andy Gregory, Danny Halliwell, Neil Harmon, Alan Hunte, David Highton, Danny Lima, Lama Tasi, Tyrone McCarthy, Francis Maloney, Adrian Morley, Chris Morley, Ben Murdoch Masila, Richie Myler, Adam Neal, Gareth O Brien, Rob Parker, Stefan Ratchford, Stuart Reardon, Ian Sibbit, Kevin Tamati, Mike Wainwright and John Wilshere.

A match to remember  Friday 10th April 1998.

Warrington 4 Salford 37.

This good Friday fixture was just over 21 years ago. Thinking back it doesn’t seem that long ago at all. Where have all those seasons gone!!

The 1998 season was our second in Super League and after modest success in 1997 under coach Andy Gregory Salford supporters were excited to kick on.

The league campaign had got underway the previous week with a narrow 14-18 home defeat at The Willows against St. Helens. 

The new look Reds had recruited heavily in the build up to the season and expectations were high. 

A very healthy crowd packed the terraces at Wilderspool as the two sides ran out for kick off. The atmosphere at the ‘zoo’ as it was affectionately known was always special as well being quite intimidating for an away supporter. Salford always took a very big, vocal following there and it was probably my favourite away day. 

From minute one Salford dominated in attack and defence. Warrington were shell shocked. The miserable weather conditions didn’t really allow free flowing rugby but Salford wore there opponents down with grit and determination. Scoring some excellent team tries as well as tackling the wolves to a stand still. The hosts only score came from centre Toa Kohe-Love. 

The Reds bagged seven tries, Darren Rogers two, Dave Bradbury, Gary Broadbent, Paul Forber, Scott Naylor and David Hulme all crossing. 

New signing Martin Crompton kicked four goals and dropped a goal to cap off a remarkable afternoon.

The teams that day were;

Warrington.

Penny, Roach, Kohe-Love, Fawcett, Forster, Doyle, Briers, Fogerty, Farrar, Nutley, McCurrie, Tuuta, Wainwright. Subs, Rudd, Causey, Chambers, Knott.

Salford.

Broadbent, Hassan, Naylor, Mcavoy, Rogers, White, Crompton, Savelio, Edwards, Esene Faimalo , Joe Faimalo, Bradbury, Hulme.

Subs, Martin, Lee, Forber, Southern.

Attendance 5,567

Referee, Robert Connolly.

Friday’s match.

There’s no doubt about the fact that Warrington will start Friday’s match as firm favourites. One thing about Easter though is it does have the tendency to throw up some surprise scores. It does seem a tricky task to win both matches over the weekend and many coaches try and plan, rotate and manage their squads accordingly.

Where does Ian Watson start with preparation for Friday? 

Blake Austin has so far been the go to player for The Wolves. Bossing matches and coming up with match winning plays and contributions. Their is also a fantastic cutting edge in the three quarters to contend with along with a very powerful and robust pack of forwards. 

Defence needs to be top notch and Salford have proved this season that they can defend having nilled London Broncos and Catalans. Chances may be few and far between but when they do come The Red Devils need to be clinical.

One player who will definitely be missing for Salford is winger Ed Chamberlain. This could pave the way for Derrell Olpherts return and will almost certainly hand the goal kicking responsibilities to Krisnan Inu.

Ian Watson has pointed out of the past few weeks that poor starts to matches have cost his side dear so it’s imperative Salford start well on Friday.

Easter is a special time for Rugby League followers. With some mouth watering local Derby matches being televised along with some great radio coverage across the regions. 

Safe travels and enjoy the game everyone.

Paul Whiteside.

Pictures by Steve McCormick 

Sportszone Salford v Wigan Match report

After Salford’s heroics on Good Friday it was back to The AJ Bell Stadium to face Wigan Warriors on Easter Monday.

The Warriors had suffered a derby defeat to local rivals St Helens and were in desperate need of an upturn in form.

Ian Watson made changes at half back with Josh Wood coming in for Robert Lui. Junior Sau replaced Kris Welham at centre and Logan Tomkins started at hooker with Joey Lussick on the bench.

Wigan played a very physical and sometimes very close to the knuckle style of play for the full 80 minutes. They made their intentions known from the kick off as Ben Flower clattered Gil Dudson. Moments later Dudson left the field with a head injury and didn’t return. 

This seemed to unsettle and knock Salford off their game. Joe Burgess scored the games first try on eight minutes.

Krisnan Inu then kicked out on the full from the kick off, this in turn handed more momentum to the Warriors as they piled the pressure on forcing a drop out. Zak Hardacker increased the advantage to 0-8 from a penalty goal.

Again from the kick off Inu kicked out on the full allowing Wigan to attack from yet another good position. The powerful Joe Bullock hit a nice short pass on the burst to crash over. The conversion was good moving The Warriors in to a 0-14.

Referee Ben Thaler continued to blow for penalties as his afternoon got busier.

Three penalties on the trot followed for Salford as the home crowd roared for a team warning from Mr Thaler. 

The Red Devil’s were finally rewarded for their honest endeavour with a try from George Griffin. The hard working second rower put yet another amazing shift in this afternoon working tirelessly in attack and defence.

Wigan eventually received a team warning ten minutes before the break.

George Williams darted through only to knock on over the line to Salford’s relief to round off a hectic first half.

Jackson Hastings clicked in to gear to set up the first points of the second half. Salford’s linchpin soaring through a gap to set up the supporting Niall Evalds to score a well worked try.

Wigan hit back when Joe Greenwood used his height to reach out to score. 

Greenwood’s try came on the back of a real 50/50 call from referee Thaler. A high kick was spilled by The Warriors under intense Red Devil’s pressure. Thaler adjudged Salford as offside.

At 12-20 Watson’s men needed a response quickly and they certainly got one.

Inu with a short kick off set up a thrilling attack. Daniel Murray crashed over but just lost the ball over the line. Moments later though their was no denying Adam Walker as he smashed his way to the line like a freight train. Inu’s conversion left Salford just two points behind 18-20.

Niall Evalds came so close to scoring, deciding to pass to winger Jake Bibby who had just miss timed and over run the ball.

Salford kept prodding and being roared on by the fantastic vocal home supporters took the lead for the first time in the match. Joey Lussick diving over from close range for a try that has become the trade mark of the young Australian. Inu added the conversion and shortly after a penalty goal to nudge his side into a 26-20 lead with just ten minutes remaining.

Derrell Olpherts came up with a huge error knocking the ball on in his own half returning a kick. Wigan attacked against a tired Salford defence and Greenwood grabbed his second try. Hardacker hit the post with his conversion attempt to leave the scores at 26-24 going into the closing minutes of a pulsating match.

George Williams came up with the match winning play piling pressure on Evalds who surrendered possession. The Warriors threw everything into what was a desperate attack. Zak Hardacker going over to break Salford hearts four minutes from time with the match winning score.

Salford coach Ian Watson was bitterly disappointed speaking after the match.

“Their is a load of disappointed people in the changing room at the moment.

We made quite a few errors at the beginning of the game to give them the impetus, got ourselves back into a position to win the game before a couple of individual errors cost us at the back end. Their wasn’t a lack of effort it was silly little dumb plays really.”

Salford are back in action next Saturday when they travel to London Broncos.

Salford 26 Wigan 30.

Paul Whiteside.

Pictures by Steve McCormick 

Sportszone Salford v Wigan preview

Salford v Wigan-Match Preview.

The Easter weekend is always a special time for Rugby League supporters. After Salford’s victory over Warrington on Good Friday the players must be bouncing with confidence ahead of Wigan’s visit to The AJ Bell Stadium on Monday.

I am struggling for a word to describe Friday’s win. Yes we played some great rugby but also the grit and doggedness in defence set the platform for victory.

The attitude of the players was first class, the willingness to fight and chase every cause from minute one to eighty. It just shows in the sport of Rugby League if you enter a match half cooked or complacent your playing a dangerous game. That said the credit must go to Ian Watson, his staff and the players. They didn’t allow Warrington to play, giving the supporters a day to remember.

Wigan suffered their third consecutive defeat on Friday at home to bitter rivals St. Helens. Picking up injuries to Jake Shorrocks and Tom Davies who both had to be stretched off is another blow to the Warriors who are finding it tough to build any sort of momentum in 2019.

Despite the latest injury setbacks Wigan still have a side littered with world class international players. As we found out just less than a month ago in the last meeting between the two sides the pace and power The Warriors have at their disposal can cause any team problems.

Monday promises to be a fascinating encounter, victory for Salford could really build some momentum at a crucial point in the season. The month of May sees The Red Devil’s in some mouth watering league matches including the Magic Weekend clash and Challenge Cup tie with Hull Kingston Rovers.

Ian Watson continues to build his hard working down to earth ethos at Salford.

Ian and his staff have worked wonders on a tight budget over the past few years. The ability to spot players who have perhaps fell out of favour at their respective clubs and bring them to Salford get them in the best shape they can and really improve them is something Watson and his back room team have become experts at.

The home defeat to Wigan on the 24th March was a real disappointment to Ian and the team with Monday giving them a second chance to put things right.

50 years ago on Easter Monday 1969 Salford beat Wigan 37-5 at the Willows.

That was after victories on Good Friday and Easter Saturday. Tries that day came from Billy Burgess 2, Bob Burdell 2, Chris Hesketh, Colin Dixon and Charlie Bott. Hopefully their is a lucky omen in that for us somewhere.

Easter Memories From Yesteryear.

Blackpool Borough 7 Salford 49  Good Friday 1969 

Swinton 3  Salford 19  Easter Saturday 1969

Salford 37 Wigan 5  Easter Monday 1969

Barrow 16 Salford 20 Good Friday 1971

Swinton 20 Salford 23  Easter Saturday 1971

Salford 16 Wigan 7 Easter Monday 1971

Salford 30 Swinton 22 Good Friday 1976

Wigan 15 Salford 24 Easter Monday 1976

Salford 13 Leigh 12 Good Friday 1981

Oldham 18 Salford 18 Easter Monday 1981

Blackpool Borough 4 Salford 30 Good Friday 1985

Salford 5 Swinton 9 Easter Monday 1985

Salford 18 Leigh 11 Good Friday 1991

Swinton 10 Salford 10 Easter Monday 1991

Salford 35 Oldham 26 Good Friday 1997

Salford 27 Paris 26 Easter Monday 1997

Salford 18 Warrington 16 Good Friday 2009

Leeds 20  Salford 30 Easter Monday 2009

Huddersfield 12 Salford 18  Good Friday 2015

Salford 24 Wigan 18 Easter Monday 2015

They played for both.

Over the years there have been plenty of players who’ve been at both clubs at some point in their career. Here are a few of them,

Mal Aspey, Neil Baynes, Steve Blakeley, Gavin Clinch, Andy Coley, Michael Dobson, Mark Flanagan, Martin Gleeson, Sean Gleeson, Wayne Godwin, Bobbie Goulding, Andy Gregory, Steve Hampson, Ged Byrne, Paul O Neil,

Harrison Hansen, Gareth Hock, Nathan Mcavoy, Lee Mossop, Jack Murphy, David Myers, Martin Offiah, Sam Panapa, John Pendlebury, Luke Robinson,

Tim Smith, David Stephenson, Trevor Stockey, Ged Stazicker, Scott Taylor, Logan Tomkins, Colin Whitfield, Stephen Wild and Phil Ford.

Monday’s match.

The big test now for Salford is to be consistent. With such a short turn around from a bruising fixture for both clubs it’s a real tough ask with rest and recovery vital leading up to the match.

The pressure continues to mount on Wigan with eight defeats already from their eleven matches. Add to that the on going saga of next season’s head coach the supporters are becoming frustrated at the uncertainty surrounding their famous club. With international players like Sean O Loughlin, Oliver Gildart, Joe Burgess, George Williams, Thomas Leuluai, Liam Farrell and Zak Hardacker it would be some what naive to write Wigan off just yet. 

The clock is certainly ticking on The Warriors 2019 playoff hopes. If a top five position is to be achieved their slip ups need to be at a minimum.

I firmly believe a victory for Salford on Monday could propel us to the next level in Super League.

Consistency is the key for a side that has proved they can match any team in the league on there day.

An intriguing encounter is definitely on the cards and a game not to be missed.

Safe travels and enjoy the game everyone.

Paul Whiteside.

Pictures by Steve McCormick 

Sportszone Warrington v Salford Preview

Salford v Warrington Wolves.

Warrington Wolves have made another great start to the season. Playing some free flowing expansive Rugby League, Steve Price’s team are looking to go one better in 2019 having missed out to Wigan in last years Grand Final.

Blake Austin has been a revelation at half back and despite losing Kevin Brown to a season ending injury The Wolves have so far filled the gap with the talented Declan Patton playing out of his skin. With Stefan Ratchford at full back and a very powerful and fast back line Price has all the tools in his arsenal to challenge at the very top once again. 

With 8 victories from the first 10 matches last weekend’s thumping at St. Helens raised a few eyebrows. Having said that Saints have again looked mesmerising with just one defeat themselves in Perpignan against Catalans.

Warrington and Salford have met on quite a number of occasions in the Super League era on Good Friday with both sides celebrating success.

The Wolves have certainly had the edge since their move to the new stadium. 

The League Championship is the ultimate goal for Warrington having not been champions since 1955. They’ve come mighty close over the last few years being beaten in the Grand Final’s of 2012, 2013, 2016 and 2018.

Despite these final disappointments the Wolves supporters have had plenty to cheer. Lifting the Challenge Cup at Wembley in 2009, 2010 and 2012.

Since leaving Wilderspool the club has gone from strength to strength. After slow progress at first the challenge cup final and trip to Wembley in 2009 caught the imagination of the supporters, attendances rocketed with the Wolves now one of the leading lights in the sport both on and off the field. 

This looks a tough task for Ian Watson and his Salford side but one they will relish having proved already this season they can be a match for anyone. 

A big crowd and special atmosphere is expected with this being a favourite away trip for many of Salford’s supporters. 

Super League away record.

Warrington 17

Draws 0

Salford 7

1997 Warrington 23 Salford 8

1998 Warrington 4 Salford 37

1999 Warrington 28 Salford 14

2000 Warrington 32 Salford 18

2000 Warrington 38 Salford 10

2001 Warrington 14 Salford 39

2002 Warrington 18 Salford 9

2002 Warrington 2 Salford 22

2004 Warrington 46 Salford 20

2005 Warrington 48 Salford 14

2005 Warrington 32 Salford 22

2006 Warrington 6 Salford 24

2006 Warrington 6 Salford 22

2007 Warrington 42 Salford 6

2009 Warrington 62 Salford 20

2010 Warrington 32 Salford 2

2011 Warrington 16 Salford 18

2012 Warrington 24 Salford 20

2013 Warrington 68 Salford 10

2014 Warrington 36 Salford 20

2015 Warrington 22 Salford 8

2016 Warrington 40 Salford 14

2017 Warrington 12 Salford 38

2018 Warrington 30 Salford 14

They played for both 

Here are a few players to wear the red of Salford and the primrose and blue of Warrington.

Vinny Anderson, Richie Barnett, Steve Blakeley, Martin Crompton, John Duffy, Phil Ford, Martin Gleeson, Andy Gregory, Danny Halliwell, Neil Harmon, Alan Hunte, David Highton, Danny Lima, Lama Tasi, Tyrone McCarthy, Francis Maloney, Adrian Morley, Chris Morley, Ben Murdoch Masila, Richie Myler, Adam Neal, Gareth O Brien, Rob Parker, Stefan Ratchford, Stuart Reardon, Ian Sibbit, Kevin Tamati, Mike Wainwright and John Wilshere.

A match to remember  Friday 10th April 1998.

Warrington 4 Salford 37.

This good Friday fixture was just over 21 years ago. Thinking back it doesn’t seem that long ago at all. Where have all those seasons gone!!

The 1998 season was our second in Super League and after modest success in 1997 under coach Andy Gregory Salford supporters were excited to kick on.

The league campaign had got underway the previous week with a narrow 14-18 home defeat at The Willows against St. Helens. 

The new look Reds had recruited heavily in the build up to the season and expectations were high. 

A very healthy crowd packed the terraces at Wilderspool as the two sides ran out for kick off. The atmosphere at the ‘zoo’ as it was affectionately known was always special as well being quite intimidating for an away supporter. Salford always took a very big, vocal following there and it was probably my favourite away day. 

From minute one Salford dominated in attack and defence. Warrington were shell shocked. The miserable weather conditions didn’t really allow free flowing rugby but Salford wore there opponents down with grit and determination. Scoring some excellent team tries as well as tackling the wolves to a stand still. The hosts only score came from centre Toa Kohe-Love. 

The Reds bagged seven tries, Darren Rogers two, Dave Bradbury, Gary Broadbent, Paul Forber, Scott Naylor and David Hulme all crossing. 

New signing Martin Crompton kicked four goals and dropped a goal to cap off a remarkable afternoon.

The teams that day were;

Warrington.

Penny, Roach, Kohe-Love, Fawcett, Forster, Doyle, Briers, Fogerty, Farrar, Nutley, McCurrie, Tuuta, Wainwright. Subs, Rudd, Causey, Chambers, Knott.

Salford.

Broadbent, Hassan, Naylor, Mcavoy, Rogers, White, Crompton, Savelio, Edwards, Esene Faimalo , Joe Faimalo, Bradbury, Hulme.

Subs, Martin, Lee, Forber, Southern.

Attendance 5,567

Referee, Robert Connolly.

Friday’s match.

There’s no doubt about the fact that Warrington will start Friday’s match as firm favourites. One thing about Easter though is it does have the tendency to throw up some surprise scores. It does seem a tricky task to win both matches over the weekend and many coaches try and plan, rotate and manage their squads accordingly.

Where does Ian Watson start with preparation for Friday? 

Blake Austin has so far been the go to player for The Wolves. Bossing matches and coming up with match winning plays and contributions. Their is also a fantastic cutting edge in the three quarters to contend with along with a very powerful and robust pack of forwards. 

Defence needs to be top notch and Salford have proved this season that they can defend having nilled London Broncos and Catalans. Chances may be few and far between but when they do come The Red Devils need to be clinical.

One player who will definitely be missing for Salford is winger Ed Chamberlain. This could pave the way for Derrell Olpherts return and will almost certainly hand the goal kicking responsibilities to Krisnan Inu.

Ian Watson has pointed out of the past few weeks that poor starts to matches have cost his side dear so it’s imperative Salford start well on Friday.

Easter is a special time for Rugby League followers. With some mouth watering local Derby matches being televised along with some great radio coverage across the regions. 

Safe travels and enjoy the game everyone.

Paul Whiteside.

Pictures by Steve McCormick 

Sportszone Salford v Rochdale challenge cup report

Salford will be in the hat for the last 16 draw of The Challenge Cup after an emphatic victory over a brave Rochdale Hornets side.

The plucky visitors started well, moving the ball from the kick off chancing their arm down Salford’s edge.

The Red Devil’s clicked in to gear early on, Greg Burke with some neat footwork to score the opening try.

Three more tries followed, Niall Evalds danced over. Salford’s star fullback looked razor sharp all night with his burst of pace and hot stepping. 

Pack grafter Gil Dudson powered before over tries from Ed Chamberlain and Logan Tomkins.

Krisnan Inu showed his explosive power playing in the centres and his off load put Evalds in for his second try. Chamberlain with the conversion to put Salford 34-0 up.

Hornets continued to chip away and were rewarded with a try from experienced winger Shaun Ainscough.

Jake Bibby scored Salford’s seventh try of the first half to round off an entertaining forty minutes.

As the second half got under way Josh Wood made his first Salford appearance of the season to the delight of the home supporters. After Josh’s recent injury worries it certainly was a relief to see him back in a red jersey.

One real worry for Salford boss Ian Watson is the injury picked up by Ed Chamberlain. The flying winger had to be helped from the field by the medical staff after suffering what looked like a knee injury.

The first points of the second half came from Bibby who touched down after Burke’s sublime pass.

Niall Evalds added two more tries to take his tally to four for the match before George Griffin and Robert Lui grabbed tries of there own. 

Inu took the goal kicking responsibilities for the second half and nailed them all to take the score to 70-6. He also got on the try scoring list late on showing great strength to skittle the Hornets defence. 

Watson seemed pleased with the intensity his team showed throughout the match with Salford never really easing up. The concern is definitely with Ed Chamberlain who will have a scan in the coming days to reveal the extent of his injury. 

The Red Devil’s now face Warrington on good Friday and Wigan on Easter Monday in what looks a very tough Easter schedule. Watson was relishing the challenge in front of him at what is now a pivotal point in the season.

Rochdale Hornets face big challenges of their own in the quest to survive in The Championship. They face Swinton and Sheffield over Easter.

Salford 76 Rochdale Hornets 6.

Paul Whiteside.

Pictures by Steve McCormick 

Sportszone Salford v Rochdale preview

Salford v Rochdale Hornets.

The birth of The Super League in 1996 saw many teams adjust there names. Bradford Northern became Bulls, Leeds we’re now Rhinos, Oldham became Bears, Wigan added the Warriors and Warrington were now Wolves.

One club outside the razzmatazz of Super League who already had a fantastic name famous were Rochdale Hornets. One of my favourite kits in rugby league there traditional colours are a beautiful sight.

It’s been a good few years since Rochdale’s last season in the top flight but the club has a very deep proud history in the sport.

Challenge Cup Winners in 1922 the clubs real rise to fame came around forty years later. Fiji seems a world away from a smoggy Lancashire mill town, where the cotton trade and canals provided the back drop of working class life.

Rochdale Hornets brought in a Fijian contingent in the early 1960s, starting with Orisi Dawai and Josefa Levula in 1961 and, later Aspia Toga. This has resulted in Rochdale having the largest Fijian community in the UK, outside of London. The town still has huge connections with Fiji and just recently in the Rugby League World Cup of 2013 when Ireland played Fiji at Spotland Stadium the match was a sell out with over 9,000 people packing the ground out.

Rochdale Hornets have one of the largest past players associations. There annual dinner is a fantastic event. I was lucky to be invited to the 2019 event at Rochdale Golf club by my friend Brett Garside who played for Hornets in the 1980s. It was a special night and it was great to see so many legends of the club in attendance including Mike Ratu senior and Emon Ratu along with Tony Gourley, Mick Henighan, Billy Sheffield and Alan Hodkinson who represented Salford in there playing days.

In more recent years Rochdale Hornets have had success with promotions.

Bobbie Goulding arrived as player-coach in December 2003. He was in charge of Rochdale Hornets for two seasons, twice being nominated for coach of the year.

In 2013 Rochdale Hornets appointed Ian Talbot as head coach. He led Hornets to their first trophy in 91 years when they won the Kingstone Press Championship 1 play-off final defeating local rivals Oldham. Ian Talbot stood down as head coach at Hornets at the end of the 2015 season to take up a position at St. Helens.

Talbot's replacement was Alan Kilshaw.

In Alan Kilshaws 1st season (2016) Rochdale Hornets defeated Toulouse Olympique XIII in the promotion final in Toulouse, France to become Kingstone Press League 1 Champions. This was the 1st time Rochdale Hornets had been Champions of a division since 1919, a gap of 97 years.

Rochdale is a very proud town with some wonderful scenery, if you’ve never been to Hollingsworth lake it’s well worth a visit. Just like Salford, Hornets have a whole host of other attractions around Greater Manchester to compete with. 

This community club though has some real stalwart supporters who work there socks off to keep the club going on limited resources.

Home record since 1969/70

Salford 21

Draws 0

Rochdale 3

Salford 41 Rochdale 0  1969/70

Salford 18 Rochdale 9  1970/71

Salford 15 Rochdale 17 1971/72 (floodlit cup)

Salford 46 Rochdale 13 1972/73 (Lancashire cup)

Salford 30 Rochdale 7  1972/73

Salford 10 Rochdale 14 1972/73 (top 16 playoff)

Salford 24 Rochdale 3  1973/74 (Lancashire cup)

Salford 24 Rochdale 16 1973/74

Salford 18 Rochdale 0  1974/75

Salford 33 Rochdale 6  1976/77

Salford 27 Rochdale 8  1977/78 (John player Trophy)

Salford 25 Rochdale 7  1978/79 (John player Trophy)

Salford 4   Rochdale 13 1978/79

Salford 7   Rochdale 2   1981/82

Salford 26 Rochdale 11  1982/83

Salford 36 Rochdale 1   1984/85

Salford 18 Rochdale 12  1985/86 (John player Trophy)

Salford 52 Rochdale 12  1989/90 ( Lancashire cup)

Salford 41 Rochdale 12  1990/91 (Lancashire cup)

Salford 44 Rochdale 4   1995

Salford 36 Rochdale 16  1996

Salford 58 Rochdale 16  2003 ( Rail cup)

Salford 58 Rochdale 18  2003

Salford 68 Rochdale 0  2008  ( rail cup)

They played for both 

Over the years there has been plenty of player movement between the two clubs and the list of players to represent both teams is huge. I’ve listed a few below;

Steve Gibson, Wayne Reid, Bob Marsden, Ian Watson, Tony Gourley, John Butler, Mick Henighan, Simon Baldwin, Greg Austin, Gavin Bennion, Rodney Bowker, Cliff Eccles, David Fell, Carl Forster, Ian Gormley, Andy Gorski, Iain Maccorquodale, Paul Southern, Anthony Stewart, Simon Svabic, Phil Waring, Colin Whitfield, Roy Wiltshire and Mick Worrall.

A match to remember  15th September 1982.

Salford 26 Rochdale Hornets 11.

After the glory years of the 1970s a new look Salford side embarked on the journey of the 80s.

Relegation from the top flight at the end of the 1980/81 season was a disappointment but there was an exciting crop of young talent on show at The Willows. Ged Byrne, Paul Fletcher, Paul Groves, Paul O Neil, Ronnie Smith, Trevor Stockley and Stuart Williams had now all broken through in to the first team. There was still plenty of experience in the squad from the famous 70s side with Mike Coulman, Keith Fielding, Steve Nash and Maurice Richards.

This match at The Willows in September 1982 was another solid performance from Salford. Tries from O Neil, Williams, Byrne and Smith saw a comfortable 25-11 victory.

The good form continued in to the second half of the season in 1983 and promotion back to the First Division was sealed. 

With 24 victories from 32 league matches a third place finish behind Wakefield and champions Fulham capped off a successful campaign.

A league double over local rivals Swinton and a Challenge cup victory over top flight Side Leigh were also memorable matches in the season.

Friday’s match.

The Challenge cup break is just what Salford need after four successive league defeats. Super league is a tough competition where the consistency is needed week in week out. Salford’s cup run of 2017 certainly captured the supporters imagination. A semi final defeat against Wigan denying Salford a place at Wembley. Last season The Red Devil’s were beaten at the first hurdle against Leigh.

Rochdale Hornets have a difficult assignment in 2019 to try and survive in what is a very competitive Championship Division. Toronto and Toulouse have set the pace and newly promoted Bradford and York have also impressed in the opening few months of the season. Leigh, Widnes , Featherstone and Halifax are among the other front runners and so far Sheffield have been a real surprise package.

With one victory from Hornets first seven matches the race is on to avoid relegation.

Salford have lost four games on the trot and will be looking for a morale boosting victory on Friday night. Hornets certainly have nothing to lose and will want to be as competitive as possible. The experienced Scott Moore will be lining up for the visitors and has impressed in recent weeks. Stuart Howarth is a former Salford player along with player coach Carl Forster.

Talented scrum half Dan Abram is a player to keep an eye on and well travelled winger Shaun Ainscough knows where the try line is.

After last Sunday’s disappointing defeat against Hull Ian Watson is poised to make changes in the Salford line up and it will be interesting to see what his Starting thirteen looks like come kick off.

The Challenge Cup and the road to Wembley starts here for Salford. 

Safe travels and enjoy the game everyone.

Paul Whiteside.

Pictures by Steve McCormick