Salford v Wigan Match report

All the talk leading up to the match was about how well Wigan were playing and rightly so. The Warriors opened the scoring with a penalty goal from Chris Hankinson after five minutes.

The Red Devils struggled to get over the half way line in the early stages and had plenty of defensive work to do.

Tui Lolohea levelled the scores with a penalty goal but when Ken Sio knocked on from the kick off Salford we’re back under the cosh. Wigan profited from the set scrum as Jackson Hastings dropped his shoulder to score a fine try against his former club.

A clever kick through from Kevin Brown and a nice break from Niall Evalds showed attacking promise but Salford seemed to be unable to build significant pressure. In the closing stages of the half Sam Powell scored a real sucker punch try as a Salford attack collapsed at one end leaving the Wigan hooker to pinch a simple try at the other end. Hankinson missed a penalty goal on the half time hooter to leave the visitors 2-14 up at the break and looking fairly comfortable.

Sebastine Ikahihifo knocked on ten yards from his own line in the first set of the second half. Salford battened down the hatches to defend their line frantically.

It needed something special to put some life back into the game. Niall Evalds was the man to provide it. The hot stepping fullback showed some individual brilliance to fool the Wigan defence. Lolohea’s conversion reduced the deficit to 8-14 with just over twenty minutes left.

The Warriors began to panic, they seemed shell shocked at Salford’s spirt. Ian Watson’s men had renewed confidence, they were fighting for each other in what was a monumental effort.

Looking to kill off Salford’s resistance the Warriors went on the attack. A dangerous kick through was picked up clean by Evalds close to his own line. He shot through the gap and went the full length of the field much to the delight of the home supporters. Lolohea levelled the scores at 14-14 with just over ten minutes remaining.

Another thrilling Salford break was cut short by referee James Child who adjudged a pass to be forward. By now it was end to end action and one tremendous contest. Live wire Rhys Williams made another swashbuckling break with his long hair flying in the breeze. From close range their was no stopping Kevin Brown who crashed over to raise the roof on the AJ Bell Stadium. Lolohea missed the goal but Salford hit the front for the first time in the match 18-14. A remarkable turn around!

Wigan came out swinging though in the final minutes and forced a drop out.

Former Warriors centre Dan Sarginson who had been sensational all night came up with the tackle of the match. An absolute bell ringer to force a knock on. A huge roar erupted around the ground. Salford battled out the final minute to take a famous victory and a thoroughly deserved one.

Ian Watson remained grounded after the match but the glint was back in his eye. “It’s got to prove a point this, you play the way you train and your a good team. We’ve got to believe and the proof will no be in the pudding going forward. It’s great getting up for a game against Wigan but we’ve got to back this up.” Watson praised the efforts of Niall Evalds and Dan Sarginson who both put in fantastic performances. After a disappointing few weeks the Salford supporters went home delighted on a famous night for the whole club.

Salford 18 Wigan 14.

Paul Whiteside.

Pictures by Steve McCormick 

Salford v Wigan Big match preview

Salford v Wigan. 

Another tough match ended in defeat last Saturday but Ian Watson will take plenty of positives out of the defeat In Perpignan. 

In a first half with very little chances Salford failed to post points and slipped to an 18-0 deficit. The Dragons were clinical, organised and looked a very capable team. A spirited second half from the Red Devils left the game in the balance with six minutes to go at 20-14. Leaving themselves to much to do in the end a 30-14 defeat perhaps flattered the French side slightly. Niall Evalds was again a shining light for Salford in both attack and defence. Niall looked dangerous every time he was in possession and as usual he was as safe as houses at the back. Elliot Kear made his debut and had a daunting task facing up to Israel Falou. The Welshman had a terrific match containing the huge Australian centre for the majority of the evening. Kear ran the ball well and along with Rhys Williams made a real good impression.

Wigan are the team of the moment in the Super League. With five wins from six matches the Warriors sit top of the early League table. They appear to have their mojo back, playing an exciting brand of rugby in recent weeks. Four excellent performances at home to Toronto, Hull, Hull kr and away at Huddersfield will leave Adrian Lam’s side in a very confident mood. 

Over recent seasons many pundits and supporters have questioned Wigan’s style of play. That ability to grind teams down in a robotic way can be a good thing and get results, however with players like Jackson Hastings and Bevan French the Warriors have that bit of flair to accompany what looks a very exciting back line.

Super League Home record. 

Salford 4

Draws 0

Wigan 19

1997 Salford 14 Wigan 4

1998 Salford 2 Wigan 34

1999 Salford 6 Wigan 46

2000 Salford 18 Wigan 30

2001 Salford 31 Wigan 30

2002 Salford 24 Wigan 46

2004 Salford 16 Wigan 32

2005 Salford 20 Wigan 34

2006 Salford 28 Wigan 10

2007 Salford 6 Wigan 25

2007 Salford 24 Wigan 50

2009 Salford 12 Wigan 38

2010 Salford 4 Wigan 18

2011 Salford 16 Wigan 32

2012 Salford 20 Wigan 40

2013 Salford 0 Wigan 42

2014 Salford 4 Wigan 25

2015 Salford 24 Wigan 18

2016 Salford 20 Wigan 23

2017 Salford 16 Wigan 26

2018 Salford 12 Wigan 40

2019 Salford 22 Wigan 30

2019 Salford 26 Wigan 30

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.

Jackson Hastings, Kevin Brown, Dan Sarginson, James Greenwood and Jake Bibby can now be added to that list to. 

A match to remember  Friday 25th April 1997.

Salford Reds 14 Wigan Warriors 4.

As the 1980s came to a close Wigan were the leading lights in English rugby league. The Challenge Cup dominance continued in to the 1990s and at times they seemed invincible. That cup run came to an end at The Willows in 1996 but today we’re going to look back at the Super League clash from 1997 at Salford.

After two fantastic seasons outside the top flight Salford Reds were promoted to the Super League. It was a fantastic start with victories in our first five games. After the famous cup win this was Wigan’s first visit back to The Willows 14 months later. Reds stand off, former Wigan player Steve Blakeley was inspirational along with half back partner Ian Watson.

Salford Captain Blakeley had been sold by Wigan four years earlier for a bargain fee of £28,000. Another former Wigan legend Andy Gregory made the Warriors suffer as Salford chalked up there 17th successive home win. The home sides work rate and support play was phenomenal with the visitors breaching the water tight defence once all night. The 34 year old David Hulme took the man of the match award.

The Reds playing their best rugby of the season took the lead in the 9th minute when Nathan Mcavoy sent Darren Rogers in at the corner. Daryl Cardiss grabbed a try to put Wigan back in the game. Salford got a crucial try two minutes after the break Blakeley’s grubber kick was hacked on by another ex-Wigan man Scott Naylor and a young fresh faced Ian Watson followed up to score. Blakeley with four goals and a hand in both tries played a huge part in a special night under the lights at The Willows.

Salford came out winners 14-4. We got the double over Wigan in 1997 with an excellent 14-21 victory at Central Park later in the year. When you look back at the job Andy Gregory did at Salford it really is heart warming. Some fantastic wins over some of the best sides around at the time. Friday 25th April 1997 is a night I’ll certainly never forget.

Watching Salford Reds in the mid 90s was pretty special. The club was on the up, a really exciting era in our history.

Referee, Russell Smith

Attendance, 6,626.

Friday’s match .

Salford haven’t been far off the last four matches but naturally supporters have become frustrated. This match is another huge test as Wigan have plenty of strike power having scored 130 points in their last four games. Defence is likely to hold the key to the outcome on Friday. In Tui Lolohea and Kevin Brown Salford have two very capable half backs. We saw one or two flashes last weekend but both players will be looking for a dominant performance, particularly with Jackson Hastings playing the leading roll for the Warriors.

Hastings orchestrated Salford brilliantly last season but if anyone knows how to shut his threat down it’s Watson and his former team mates. 

Another player returning to the AJ Bell Stadium will be Jake Bibby. The very likeable three quarter has made an excellent start to life with his home town club and he will be one to keep an eye on. Wigan have a very physical and powerful pack, Salford’s forwards will have to be on their game to match them. In the recent home games against Leeds and Wakefield the Red Devils we’re busted down the middle far to easy. This is the arm wrestle you have to compete in to stay in the contest. Oliver Partington and Morgan Smithies are two of the exciting young forwards in the Wigan pack. Both extremely tough competitors with good engines who can play big minutes. One player in tremendous form is Liam Farrell. The back rower will be 30 this summer and already has well over 250 appearances under his belt. 

Victories over Wigan have been quite rare in the summer era and on current form this looks a big ask. During his time at Salford Ian Watson has masterminded some outstanding wins and performances. The last time these two sides met was one of those occasions that the Red Devils supporters will remember and talk about for years to come. 

With the right attitude and maybe a slice of good fortune along the way Friday night might be a lot closer than many are predicting.

The action gets under way at 7:45pm.

Safe travels and enjoy the match everyone. 

Paul Whiteside

Pictures by Steve McCormick 

Catalan v Salford Match Report

After three successive defeats a trip to the South of France was Salford’s next mission of 2020. The Dragons were starting to find their feet after an excellent away at Hull Last weekend. Despite playing two games less than Salford, Catalans had scored twenty points more than the Red Devils coming in to this fixture.

Salford welcomed back half back Kevin Brown from a two match suspension. Brown’s leadership and organisational skills had certainly been missed over the past fortnight.

After the miserable weather in North West England recently, fine and dry conditions awaited both sides at the kick off. A blustery wind swirled around the Gilbert Brutus Stadium.

Elliot Kear came in to the Red Devils starting line up for the injured Dan Sarginson. Kear joined fellow Welshman Rhys Williams on the left wing.

Tyrone McCarthy returned on the substitute bench.

The Dragons started the game on the front foot. With three successive sets of six on the Salford line the visitors resistance was broken when Michael Mcllorum darted over time score from dummy half.

Salford struggling for field position went further behind in the seventeenth minute, James Maloney kicked a penalty 8-0.

Man of the moment Maloney then created a two nice tries for Matt Whitley from a lovely kick through in to space and a high kick close to the try line. 18-0.

Salford needed a boost in the second half after failing to create anything of substance in the first half.

Niall Evalds coasted through the gap to score a fine try. Sam Tomkins was guilty of a very cynical trip on Evalds as he scored and was sent to the sin bin.

Salford’s star fullback then created a try for a Ken Sio. Sio had to finish it though and he did in some style diving over acrobatically. 18-10.

Maloney nervously nailed a penalty goal to extend the Dragons lead. By this time the French side knew they were in a game as Salford began to fight fire with fire.

A booming Joey Lussick forty twenty attempt was desperately stopped by Tomkins but he spilled the ball. Sio was on hand to scoop up the gift to touch down. Tui Lolohea failed to convert to leave the Red Devils six points adrift going into the final ten minutes.

Catalans finished the stronger as speedster Lewis Tierney broke through. The Salford cover defence was excellent but they were now stretched and Fouad Yaha scored moments later.

Elliot Kear and Rhys Williams had worked tremendously hard all night in attack and defence. They had limited Israel Falou’s threat but the Australian had the final say with a fantastic offload to put Tierney over to round off the scoring.

Salford coach Ian Watson remained upbeat after the match and pleased with the effort and endeavour of his team.

Catalans 30 Salford 14.

Report by Paul Whiteside

Pictures by Steve McCormick 

Catalan v Salford Big Match preview

After three home defeats on the trot a trip to France looks another tricky assignment for Salford. While a break from the miserable weather in England may seem appealing the prospect of a match with Catalans looks quite a daunting prospect. The Dragons have hit a patch of good form in recent weeks. A thrilling victory in Hull last weekend 29-34 has sent a warning to the Super League. They have plenty of quality players in their squad and if things come together they will have a big say on matters in 2020. 

Salford won this fixture 0-46 last season. At this moment in time a similar score line looks unlikely. The Red Devils look low on confidence. Although the last three matches have been fairly close contests their does seem to be something lacking. That determination in defence and belief from last season isn’t quite their. 

Coach Ian Watson was bitterly disappointed after Sunday’s match against Wakefield. He questioned the attitude and enthusiasm of his players. Perhaps some are still living on past reputation and the feel good factor of 2019.

Obviously you’ve got to score points to win Rugby League matches and on average you need eighteen to be in any game. For Salford at the moment though it’s hard work that will get the team moving in the right direction. Back to basics, not clocking off around the ruck, good marker defence and first contact in the tackle needs to be much tougher. We scored three excellent tries last weekend and I believe that this team will get better the more they play together. 

Where does confidence go and where does it come from in the first place? If teams could bottle it up and give it the players it would surely be priceless. 

Salford still have plenty of the personnel that did so well last season. One win can turn everything around.

Expectations were always going to be high after the 2019 season but it’s times like these where everyone has to pull together. This is when the team needs its supporters to stay positive. I am confident as a Salford supporter that we can turn things around. Their is still an awful lot of Rugby League to come this season with many twists and turns along the way. 

Super League Away record.

Catalans 9

Draws 1

Salford 4

2006 Catalans 22 Salford 28

2006 Catalans 26 Salford 6

2007 Catalans 66 Salford 6

2009 Catalans 38 Salford 6

2010 Catalans 14 Salford 22

2011 Catalans 10 Salford 22

2012 Catalans 40 Salford 18

2013 Catalans 40 Salford 6

2014 Catalans 37 Salford 24

2015 Catalans 40 Salford 40

2016 Catalans 42 Salford 32

2017 Catalans 38 Salford 6

2018 Catalans 44 Salford 10

2019 Catalans 0   Salford 46

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.

A match to remember Saturday 25th March 2006.

Catalans 22 Salford City Reds 28.

More than 500 Salford supporters took the opportunity to see the Reds play abroad for the first time in 10 years.

And they were treated to a superb see-saw contest which was jam-packed with turning points and controversial refereeing decisions.

An excellent start to the 2006 campaign had seen Salford playing some fantastic rugby built on the solid foundations of there hard working mean defence. There was a steel about Karl Harrison’s boys. Something that had been gradually built up, 2003 saw promotion after a superb and near faultless season in the National League one, 2004 and 2005 were all about stability. One of the key ingredients to the side of 2006 was the acquisition of Andrew Dunemann. The clever Australian a brilliant organiser on the pitch who was bang in form for this trip to the South of France.

Most teams would have buckled after conceding 16 points without reply in the lion’s den that is the Aime Giral stadium.

Karl Harrison’s side we’re well drilled, very determined in defence and also had plenty of attacking panache. 

The Reds looked dead on their feet in the second half and they were unable to rotate players from the bench due to a host of injury problems.

Full back Karl Fitzpatrick was the hero of the hour as far as Salford fans were concerned.

He scored a brilliant first half brace of tries and prevented Catalans from pinching a point at the death with a sensational try-saving tackle on Bruno Verges.

Salford’s other tries came from Aaron Moule 2, Andy Coley and Simon Finnigan.

The only real concern was the goal kicking with just two conversions from six attempts between David Hodgson and Luke Robinson.

The Reds were flying high in the league after this result with five wins from there opening seven matches. It’s fair to say the atmosphere in Perpignan after the game was tremendous. The travelling Salford supporters enjoying a special time and a team to be proud of.

A final league position of 5th place in 2006 was our best since our 4th place in 1979/80 season.

Catalans Dragons: Bosc, Murphy, Wilson, Hughes, Verges, Rudder, Dobson, Chan, Rinaldi, Guisset, Fakir, Hindmarsh, Mounis.

Subs; Beattie, Berthezene, Fellous, Teixido.

Salford: Fitzpatrick, Hodgson, Littler, Moule, Wilshere, Dunemann, Robinson, Baldwin, Alker, Highton, Coley, Brocklehurst, Finnigan. 

Subs; Langi,Haggerty, Clough, Clayton.

Att: 6,547

Ref: P Bentham (Warrington). 

Saturday’s match .

After that glorious Wembley win against Warrington in 2018 Catalans flattered to deceive last season and to put it bluntly they under achieved. The Dragons finished 7th in the League four points behind the Playoffs. A 51-8 defeat at Hull in the Challenge cup was quite a weak defence of the trophy.

Coach Steve McNamara has been busy on the recruitment front for this season. James Maloney has joined for Penrith Panthers. The Australian half back has been a revelation in the NRL over the last ten years. His quality has earned him international honours with the Kangaroos and also State of Origin call ups for New South Wales. 

Tom Davies has arrived from Wigan. The young winger had an excellent try record with the Warriors. Another former Wigan player Joel Tomkins has joined his brother Sam at the Dragons. A tall powerful forward who can also fill in at centre. Josh Drinkwater has also returned after spending last year with Hull Kingston Rovers. Josh was part of the Catalans side that lifted the Challenge cup in 2018.

Perhaps the most high profile signing in Rugby League in recent times is that of Israel Folau. Whatever your opinion is of him their is no doubt about the class this man possesses on the pitch. A sensational try scorer in Australia for Melbourne Storm and Brisbane Broncos, he has spent the best part of the last decade in Rugby Union. In the other code he has scored tries for fun both domestically and on the international stage. If Folau can produce this form in Super League he will be one to watch this season. 

With all the above mentioned and the rest of the quality players the Dragons have at their disposal Salford could have quite a task on this Saturday. 

One boost for Ian Watson is the availability of experienced half back Kevin Brown. Watson will be looking for a big display from his pack who got seriously out muscled and out gunned last weekend against Wakefield. The Dragons have plenty of size in their pack and if your not on your game they can steam roller teams down the middle. 

One player who has stood out for me in recent weeks is Mark Flanagan. At 32 Mark is one of the senior players in the squad. As the season kicked off he looked to have lost his place in the side but in recent weeks he’s played his way back in. Flash worked really hard last Sunday and coming off the bench his influence was a positive one. An accomplished defender with the ability to throw out try scoring passes Salford need him on the pitch doing what he does best. 

As we await Watson’s squad selection will their be any changes? This was certainly mentioned in my interview with him post match on Sunday. 

Safe travels and enjoy the match everyone. 

Paul Whiteside

Pictures by Mike Inkley

Salford Red Devils v Wakefield Match report

The word on the street billed this match as ‘a must win game’. Another very blustery afternoon would go on to hamper the kicking games of both teams who got more cautious as the match went on.

It was Wakefield who started the brighter of the two sides. Salford handed the visitors early attacking opportunities but Trinity failed to capitalise. Despite being under the cosh Ken Sio and Tui Lolohea combined brilliantly after some good work from Pauli Pauli. Lolohea scored the try but failed to convert. 4-0 after fourteen minutes.

Rhys Williams and Dan Sarginson worked hard for Salford returning the ball with a steely determination. Niall Evalds put in another accomplished display at fullback. 

It was the home sides pack that was struggling though as Wakefield began to dominate up the middle. Another defensive clock off allowed Trinity half back Max Jowitt to burst through and level the scores.

Jowitt converted to put the visitors into a deserved lead. Another break threatened to extend the advantage but Salford breathed a huge sigh of relief when Alex Walker knocked on.  4-6 at half time the game was in the balance.

Substitute Mark Flanagan tried his best to stamp his authority on the game and it was his pass that helped work a nice try for Ken Sio. This nudged Salford back in front, Lolohea missed the conversion. 8-6.

The Red Devils lead didn’t last long. More mistakes allowed Trinity to get back on the front foot. After keeping the ball alive with some enterprising play winger Tom Johnstone crossed to score. Jowitt’s conversion edged Wakefield ahead again at 8-12.

Jacob Miller and Jowitt were bossing the game and pulling the strings. After forcing a drop out Reece Lynne set up the next try with a superb offload for Bill Tupou.

Salford’s contact in defence seemed soft at times and the next Trinity try certainly highlighted that. Kelepi Tanginoa walked through some shoddy tackling to put daylight between the teams.

Ken Sio scored his second try with eight minutes remaining but that’s as good as it got for Salford. Another disappointing performance left coach Ian Watson very down beat at full time. “We lacked it straight from the off, we looked flat. That’s not good enough.” 

Looking ahead to next week Watson spoke of making changes, “some people are still believing the hype from last year. At the moment I think people are lacking. Their has got to be changes on the back of that because we can’t keep rolling with that group.”

Salford travel to France next weekend when they face Catalans Dragons next Saturday.

Salford 12 Wakefield 22.

Paul Whiteside.

Pictures by Mike Inkley

View from the commentary box - Salford Red Devil’s

Salford sufferer home defeat against Leeds Rhinos at the AJ Bell Stadium. Salfords lack of fit bodies available after losing 3 interchanges to injury and some indifferent refereeing decitions left coach Ian Watson frustrated.

Injuries and suspensions will have a big effect on any team and Salford are doing it tough at the moment.

I am sure that Ian Watson and the players will draw on the experience of last seasons heroics to guide themselves thought the current choppy waters.

With Salfords run of home games coming to an end against Wakefield they now face a tough few weeks with trips to Catalan Dragons and Hull FC to come.

Salford have worked hard in the community over the last few weeks with engagement with schools in the area and local rugby clubs helping to build the clubs profile in the city.

The Castleford Tigers game on the 20th March is another opportunity for the local schools, Colleges, Universities and community group to attend the game for free. With over 900 child attending last time the offer was available it shows there is a demand and a hunger to watch Rugby league in community.

This is a fantastic offer to potential new fans and will give the organisations great exposure on a match day.

The Supporters Trust are involved in running supporters buses to the game which allows fans to get to the game if they don’t have a car themselves or can’t use pubic transport.

The Supporters Trust hosted a Mowtown and Soul night in the Bluebell this Friday, it was a success with Ed Chamberlain and Krisnan Inu in attendance.

Ex player Paul Southern and Reserve Team coach Danny Barton recieved their Salford Red Devil’s heritage numbers too, this celebration shows that us supporters celebrate our rich history as well as look forward to the future.

The club are reaily engaging with the community to help grow its fan base, with a increase in season ticket holders for 2020 the tactic seems to be working which is good news.

 Salford Red Devil’s this week announced season ticket holders can save 10% across food and drink at the AJBell_Stadium concourse kiosks on matchdays

This is not including confectionery items, the marquee, the Seven Brothers beer pumps and the lounges around the stadium.

Any savings on a match day are welcomed by match going Reds.

Wakefield Trinity visit the AJ Bell Stadium on Sunday afternoon and Ian Watson will be looking to get back to winning ways.

After missing the defeat against Leeds Rhinos last week Lee Mossop and Dan Sarginson return to the squad, this is a boost ahead of this crutial fixture.

If Salford can record a victory it will boost confidence ahead of a trip to Catalan next week, it will not be a easy game Wakefield have quality all over the field so Salford will need to be on their game to record the win

Pictures by Steve McCormick 

Blog by Rob Parkinson

Salford Red Devil’s v Wakefield Big match preview

It’s over twenty years now since Wakefield gained promotion back to the top flight of Rugby League. Trinity won a glorious Division one Grand Final victory over Featherstone Rovers back in September 1998 in front of a crowd of 8,224. Since then they’ve managed to survive some mighty dog fights at the bottom of the table as well as some really solid seasons where they have competed in the playoffs. It’s fair to say for a club their size Wakefield have punched above their weight. Many of the elite teams in the Super League have been put to the sword at the famous old Belle Vue Stadium. 

Perhaps it’s looking a little tired these days but it remains a traditional ground of the sport. A place that has seen many greats of the game play over the years including the legendary Neil Fox, David Topliss and Derek Turner. Between the three of them they played over 1200 games for the Dreadnoughts. The club were the team to beat in the 1960s. Lifting two Championships in 1967 and 1968. They also triumphed at Wembley three times in 1960, 1962 and 1963.

After a really positive start to the 2019 season injuries took their toll on coach Chris Chester’s squad. Trinity had to fight for survival in a real thrilling relegation dog fight that involved four other clubs. On the final round of the season London, Wakefield, Hull Kingston Rovers and Huddersfield knew what they had to do to stay up. Either one could of fell through the trap door to the Championship. A nervy 19-10 victory over London saw Trinity survive and condemned the valiant Broncos to the drop.

Tom Johnstone is one of the hottest properties in the Super League. The lighting fast winger suffered an ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) injury last year. He’s back in 2020 and started the season in fine form. In the close season coach Chris Chester was extremely busy on the recruitment front. London duo Alex Walker and Jay Pitts have moved to West Yorkshire and former Salford hooker Josh Wood is re building his career with Trinity after an injury ravaged 2019. Two very experienced players have signed in Ryan Atkins and Joe Westerman. Atkins begins his second spell with the club having made over 100 appearances between 2006 and 2009.

Super League Home Record.

Salford 15

Draws 1

Wakefield 9

1999 Salford 28 Wakefield 14

2000 Salford 14 Wakefield 22

2001 Salford 26 Wakefield 16

2001 Salford 24 Wakefield 32

2002 Salford 42 Wakefield 18

2002 Salford 22 Wakefield 22

2004 Salford 20 Wakefield 27

2005 Salford 16 Wakefield 14

2005 Salford 37 Wakefield 0

2006 Salford 48 Wakefield 10

2006 Salford 26 Wakefield 12

2007 Salford 18 Wakefield 35

2009 Salford 24 Wakefield 30

2010 Salford 16 Wakefield 12

2011 Salford 34 Wakefield 12

2012 Salford 34 Wakefield 42 (played at Leigh)

2013 Salford 10 Wakefield 46

2014 Salford 18 Wakefield 14

2015 Salford 24 Wakefield 18

2015 Salford 34 Wakefield 26 (middle eights)

2016 Salford 38 Wakefield 8

2017 Salford 24 Wakefield 34

2017 Salford 18 Wakefield 43 (Super 8s)

2018 Salford 38 Wakefield 4

2019 Salford 44 Wakefield 20

They played for both.

Here are a few players who represented both clubs:

Ben Jones Bishop, Mason Caton Brown, Tim Smith, Kevin Locke, Matty Ashurst, Ged Byrne, Garen Casey, Shane Kenward, Jason Critchley, Ashley Gibson, Sean Gleeson, Bobbie Goulding, Josh Griffin, George Griffin, Darrell Griffin, Phil Hassan, James Hasson, Stuart Howarth, Alan Hunte, Greg Johnson, Warren Jowitt, Andy Kirk, Tommy Lee, Francis Maloney, Martin Moana, Kris Tassell, Jason Walton, Jeremy Smith and Craig Kopzack.

A match to remember Saturday 17th August 2002.

Salford 22 Wakefield 22

With both sides battling at the wrong end of the table the two points on offer here we’re priceless. Salford we’re having a miserable season. Big defeats away from home and at The Willows we’re becoming far to frequent. 

Wakefield went ahead in the sixth minute with a penalty from Ian Knott before a Steve Blakeley try and two Graham Holroyd goals put Salford 8-2 up.

Wakefield drew level when Andrew Frew collected Deon Bird's pass to go over and Knott landed a penalty after a high tackle by Andy Coley on Paul Jackson.

The teams went in level at half time 8-8.

Early in the second half, the impressive Brad Davis added a drop goal.

The Australian half back was a constant threat with his organisational skills.

Danny Arnold put Salford back in front on the hour with a well taken try before Wakefield took a commanding ten point lead. 

Andrew Frew touched down from a kick through, Davis added the conversion and then booted his second drop goal before capping a fine display by finishing off Deon Bird's break for a try, which he then converted.

Salford now staring down the barrel of another defeat needed something special and they certainly got it. 

Arnold squeezed in at the corner for his second try before sub Ian Watson darted over and Graham Holroyd coolly landed the conversion to level the match. After a frantic finale both sides had to settle for a point in a 22-22 draw.

The relegation battle when right down to the wire. Salford had to beat Castleford on the final day of the season at The Willows to survive. Sadly another poor performance and a 10-20 defeat resulted in relegation to National League one. 

The club re grouped under coach Karl Harrison and a terrific season in 2003 saw Salford back in the big time after promotion. 

The teams that day; 

Salford: Gibson, Reardon, Maloney, Hunte, Arnold, Holroyd, Blakeley, Baynes, Alker, Highton, Ebrill, Treacey, Wainwright. Subs: Southern, Price, Coley, Watson.

Wakefield: Holland, Sovatabua, Tassell, Bird, Frew, Moana, Davis, Jackson, Vowles, Feather, Slattery, Field, Knott. Subs: Broadbent, March, Handforth, Ellis.

Referee: Russell Smith (Castleford)

Attendance: 3,217.

 Sundays match .

Both sides will be looking for improvement to their recent form. Salford have lost back to back home matches against Huddersfield and Leeds. Perhaps the most concerning thing at the moment for Ian Watson is some early season injury problems. Krisnan Inu hobbled off early on last week, Luke Yates failed a head assessment, Dan Sarginson and Lee Mossop are both injured.

 Kevin Brown will also miss this match through suspension. Wakefield have won one match so far. Trinity surprised Warrington with an excellent victory at Belle Vue sending the Wolves packing 18-8. A disappointing defeat in the opening round at Hull Kingston Rovers and a 32-15 derby defeat at Castleford last week leave both sides desperate to kick start their season. 

Talking of injury problems Wakefield have been hit by two big blows with Joe Arundel and Ryan Hampshire both suffering injuries last Friday. Arundel will miss the rest of the season with a knee injury while Hampshire is out for six weeks with a broken jaw.

Trinity have plenty of ex Salford players in their squad which will definitely add to what looks an intriguing encounter. 

The action gets under way at 3pm. 

Safe travels and enjoy the match everyone. 

Paul Whiteside

Pictures by Steve McCormick 

Salford Red Devils v Leeds Rhinos Match report

Another blustery afternoon awaited both teams at kick off. Leeds arrived on the back of a good victory last weekend as Salford looked to get back on track. 

A booming kick to start the match caught the Rhinos off guard. The swirling wind pulled the ball away from Luke Gale giving the Red Devils an early attacking opportunity. Two more errors hampered the visitors but Salford’s attack seemed slightly predictable. With Kevin Brown suspended Chris Atkin made his debut partnering Tui Lolohea at half back.

Krisnan Inu returned for the injured Dan Sarginson but sadly Inu left the field in the early stages with what looked like a lower limb injury as he hobbled off. Ian Watson shuffled his side round with Ryan Lannon moving into the centres.

The first points of the match came in the twentieth minute as the dead lock was broken with a fine Salford try. Lolohea with a neat pass to Niall Evalds who sliced through the Leeds defence like a knife through hot butter.

Sebastine Ikahihifo began to put himself about with some tremendous carries and Kris Welham looked solid in defence. 

Salford doubled the lead when former Leeds player Lolohea ran the ball on the last tackle showing great strength to crash over. The try was a sweet moment for the Tongan who showed his delight.

The Red Devils had certainly upped the pace and were now bossing the match.

A kick charge down from new signing Oliver Roberts gave Leeds a sniff. Brad Dwyer shot through a gap before sending Gale away to score right on the half time hooter. Gale’s conversion made it 8-6 at the break. 

Salford started the second half on the front foot with a huge Joey Lussick forty twenty kick. Again the chance went begging with another error to let Leeds off the hook. 

Richie Myler’s introduction seemed to speed to Rhinos up particularly around the ruck. 

The match seemed to turn on a controversial call from referee Marcus Griffiths. Niall Evalds took a high ball with real bravery, however he looked to be tackled in the air. The penalty didn’t come, instead Salford were forced to drop out.

Leeds moved the ball well and winger Luke Briscoe finished acrobatically in the corner. Gale missed the conversion but the visitors nudged in front for the first time at 8-10.

Salford were low on numbers with a Luke Yates failing a head assessment and Tyrone McCarthy struggling. Leeds scored again with a simple try from forward Mikolaj Oledzki. Gale stretched the lead to eight points with the conversion and shortly after booted over a penalty goal 8-18.

The Red Devils never really looked a threat in the second half. The frustration of the home supporters was their for all to see. Plenty of dubious and questionable penalty decisions seem to only go one way.

A desperate late Salford attack went wrong when Lannon’s off load went astray. A counter attack ended in a fourth Leeds try. Young fullback Jack Walker  rounding off the scoring.

Salford coach Ian Watson was left furious after the match. Speaking about the tackle in the air on Evalds, “ it’s a massive turning point, it’s ridiculous to be fair.

It’s a dead set penalty and that turns the game. Ganson (the controller of referees) needs to contact us, we kept contacting him myself personally. He’s not come back to us. We’re not popular, we’re not Wigan or St. Helens, it’s like we’re not important so they just ignore us and send referees like that.”

Watson’s passion for Salford is very commendable and he will be working his socks off with his players to get the victory next Sunday when they host Wakefield Trinity.

Salford 8 Leeds 22.

Paul Whiteside.

Pictures by Ollie Roberts

View from the Commentary box - Manchester United

Salford Red Devils v Leeds Rhinos big match preview

Salford v Leeds.

For supporters of a certain vintage this match is always eagerly anticipated when the fixtures are released. A bitter rivalry through the 1970s and one of the worst records in Rugby League over the past forty years add to the importance for Salford. Since Super League began in 1996 The Red Devils have won just three home games with Leeds and those three wins have all come fairly recently. Even pre Super league through the 70s, 80s and 90s victories over Leeds were a very rare and savoured occasion. 

Over the past fifteen years the Rhinos have created a Rugby League dynasty at Headingley. With their Golden Generation of players the trophies came thick and fast.

Over the past few years that group of players that brought eight Super League Titles and Three World Club Championships to West Yorkshire have one by one retired or left the club. 

By Leeds standards the last two seasons have been disappointing. A club in transition some say. That may well be but the Rhinos infrastructure is arguably the strongest in the country. A magnificent stadium with facilities that many football clubs would be proud. 

Salford will be looking to kick start their season after a tough contest with Huddersfield last Friday ended in a 10-12 defeat. The Red Devils will need to be on their guard as the Rhinos put fifty points past Tony Smith’s Hull kr last time out.

To add a bit of spice Robert Lui returns to the AJ Bell Stadium and Tui Lolohea will be looking to get one over the club that dumped him last season.

Super League Home Record.

Salford 3

Draws 0

Leeds 20

1997 Salford 20 Leeds 33

1998 Salford 6 Leeds 40

1999 Salford 30 Leeds 38

2000 Salford 26 Leeds 34

2001 Salford 14 Leeds 19

2002 Salford 16 Leeds 48

2004 Salford 0 Leeds 44

2005 Salford 12 Leeds 30

2006 Salford 18 Leeds 24

2006 Salford 18 Leeds 19

2007 Salford 26 Leeds 30

2009 Salford 24 Leeds 30

2010 Salford 22 Leeds 31

2011 Salford 22 Leeds 30

2012 Salford 16 Leeds 56

2013 Salford 16 Leeds 42

2014 Salford 18 Leeds 22

2015 Salford 18 Leeds 28

2016 Salford 14 Leeds 10

2017 Salford 24 Leeds 50

2018 Salford 38 Leeds 22

2019 Salford 14 Leeds 46

2019 Salford 28 Leeds 16

They played for both.

Here are a few players to wear the red of Salford and the blue and amber of Leeds.

Luke Burgess, Joel Moon, Mark Brooke-Cowden, Andrew Duneman, Ensene Famailo, Phil Ford, Ashley Gibson, Phil Hassan, Weller Hauraki, Ben Jones Bishop, Andy Kirk, Francis Maloney, Robert Lui, Richie Myler and David Young.

A match to remember Sunday 11th February 2007. 

Salford 26 Leeds 30. 

This was the opening match of the 2007 season. After Salford’s heroics of the previous season finishing 5th in the Super League coach Karl Harrison made some very exciting signings to strengthen his squad. Power house forward Mark Edmondson joined along with the exciting back Luke Dorn. Michael Korkidas had been a real fans favourite at his previous clubs and his signing made Salford’s pack quite a significant size! 

On a chilly afternoon at The Willows a bumper crowd of over 8,000 packed the terraces creating a terrific atmosphere at kick off.

The Rhinos started at a blistering pace leaving Salford shell shocked. 

New signing Brent Webb scored a brace of tries with Danny McGuire and Rob Burrow also going over in a thunderous first half display. John Wilshere raced over off a nice Aaron Moule pass to get Salford on the scoreboard.

6-22 down at halftime Wilshere grabbed his second try shortly after the break.

After Clinton Toopi had been penalised for a flop Salford moved the ball down field and Moule scored from dummy half from short range after Alker had gone close. Luke Robinson added the conversion to make it 16-22 after 49 minutes.

The Willows faithful were roaring their side on who had showed great character to rattle the Rhinos.

Leeds kicked a crucial penalty goal to post their first points of the second half.

The visitors then had a large slice of luck land their way after 69 minutes when Wilshere lost control of the ball after taking a cross field bomb by McGuire and Jordan Tansey was on hand to touch the ball down. 16-30.

Salford wouldn’t go away and kept the ball moving with a renewed urgency. This time it was Gareth Haggerty who got the try after a driving run from close range. Robinson added the conversion to make it 22-30.

There was even more drama when Aaron Moule created the extra man out wide to score after a flowing move across the entire width of the pitch. Robinson could not add the conversion though but the Rhinos lead was cut to just four points at 26-30. This set up a real frantic, grandstand finish. Unfortunately Salford couldn’t get the heroic last gasp try they deserved.

Both sides seasons couldn’t have ended in more contrasting circumstances.

Leeds finished second in the table and went through the playoffs to the Grand Final at Old Trafford. A memorable 33-6 thumping of St Helens saw them crowned champions. 

Salford finished bottom with just 13 points, 7 points

adrift of Hull Kingston Rovers. Relegation to National League one was a bitter pill to swallow. 

The teams that day;

Salford, Hodgson; Halliwell, McGuinness, Moule, Wilshere; Dorn, Robinson; Coley, Alker, Jewitt, Edmondson, Littler, Finnigan. Subs used: Korkidas, Haggerty, Adamson, Brocklehurst. Tries: Wilshere (2), Moule (2), Haggerty. Goals: Robinson (3).

Leeds, Webb, Donald, Toopi, Senior, Gibson, McGuire, Burrow, Bailey, Diskin, Leuluai, Lauiti’iti, Ellis, Sinfield. Subs used: Sructon, Jones Buchanan, Tansey, Thackray. Tries: Webb (2), Burrow, McGuire, Tansey.

Attendance: 8,071.

Referee, Ian Smith.

Saturdays match .

Looking ahead to Saturday you get the feeling that this match could be won in the battle of the packs. Against Huddersfield in round three Salford lacked their usual grunt upfront. Gil Dudson missed out through illness, Sebastine Ikahihifo couldn’t play due to his loan agreement and Adam Walker is still unavailable.

Coach Ian Watson will be hoping to get Dudson back in the front row with Lee Mossop.

Watson will also be sweating on half back Kevin Brown. Brown was sin binned after an ugly and perhaps clumsy clash with Jordan Turner in the closing stages last Friday. Tui Lolohea shouldn’t need any motivation for the fixture and will be looking to impress.

As well as Robert Lui the Rhinos possess another quality half back in Luke Gale. The former Castleford Tigers talisman signed in the close season after five seasons at Wheldon Road. If these two can click in 2020 Leeds could make a big impact.

Rhinos head coach Richard Agar as an exciting crop of young players awaiting their chance as well as over seas stars Conrad Hurrell, Adam Cuthbertson and Matt Prior to call on. It’s an impressive looking squad and Salford will need to be at their best defensively to combat the pace and power Leeds will throw at them.

Salford have plenty of attacking weapons of their own. Dan Sarginson has really caught the eye so far this season. Wingers Ken Sio and Rhys Williams provide pace and can both finish when provided a chance.

Joey Lussick had a fantastic match the last time the two sides met. Salford won at Headingley 12-20 last year and Lussick with his pace from dummy half caused Leeds a raft of trouble all match. 

The Red Devils could be forced to make changes as Kevin Brown awaits his fate this week. With Chris Atkin patiently waiting for his opportunity he could be the man to fill in if needed.

This promises to be an explosive encounter and a match not to be missed. 

The action gets under way at 2pm. 

Safe travels and enjoy the match everyone. 

Paul Whiteside

Pictures by Steve McCormick 

View from the commentary box - Salford Red Devils

Salford Red Devil’s suffered a home defeat last week against Huddersfield Giants. It was a close game with tries from Ken Sio and Dan Sarginson making it a 10 all score line going into the final stage of the game.

Unfortunately for Salford Tui Lolahea missed a chance of a drop goal and to make things worse experienced half back Kevin Brown was sent to the sin bin for a head butt in a tackle on Jordan Turner.

I feel this was a harsh decision for Kevin and Salford,  there was contact between Kevin’s head and Jordan Turner but I refuse to believe it was a deliberate act to injure or hurt Jordan Turner. 

With Kevin brown off the field Huddersfield had a opportunity to win the game which they eventually did from a penalty under the posts, Ian Watson refused to hit the panic button after the game. Defeat against Huddersfield at home in previous years may have caused a panic situation to grow but under Ian Watson’s stewardship their is a sense of confidence that the players brought in will help improve the team for 2020 so another good season is on the horizon.

A new face arrived at the AJ Bell Stadium this week with Oliver Roberts moving to Salford from Huddersfield on loan for the 2020 season.

The 6,4 forward who was selected to be in the England Knight squad in 2019 and a full Irish international,  he has the size and experience to add that extra quality to Ian Watson’s squad.

Roberts who is 25 played for Salfords youth teams upto 2013 before signing for Bradford will be looking to play well to either gain a contract at the AJ Bell next year or for Huddersfield to make him part of their plans again.

Another Salford rugby league player who has made the headlines is local player Jonny Openshaw, a product of Folly Lane he has been selected to train with the England      Community Lions  ahead of their European Championships later in the year. Openshaw has potential to go a long way in the game and this will help his development. One day he could be pulling on the famous red jersey at the AJ Bell Stadium.

The sad news this week is Salford prop Adam Walker has left the club, a real rough tough forward who gave the pack that nastiness will be missed. Walkers appearance from the subs bench in the Grandfinal gave Salford a 2nd wind which put them back in contention going into half time. It’s safe to say that with 26 appearances and 4 tries will be remembered.

Adam has been out of favour this season so far and a change in his circumstances has resulted in his release. The club has released a statement to say that it will help Adam with this transition, I wish him well in the future.

Salford face Leeds Rhinos at the AJ Bell Stadium on Saturday. Leeds last week put a big score on Hull KR as Salford lost narrowly to Huddersfield both sides will be looking for the win.

With Salford currently enjoying a run of home games it is important this is taken advantage of and Salford pick up points.

Leeds have quality in their squad with ex Man of Steel Luke Gale and ex Salford favourite Rob Lui they have players who can cause Salford real problems.

Salford are a team who are developing, during our run to the Super League Grand Final we faced many challenges which we overcame.

I feel that the extra pressure on us this year going into games like this one will have a positive effect. The players reached great heights in consistency under pressure last season and it will help when playing big games like this one on Saturday.

New faces have come in and given us a extra dimension to our play and it will be exciting to see this squad and team develop over the weeks and months to come.

Pictures by Steve McCormick 

Blog by Rob Parkinson

View from the Commentary box - Manchester United

Manchester United are currently enjoying their winter break in Valencia, without a game for two weeks it gives the players a break from the rough and tumble of Premier League football and allows them to regain fitness or rest.

The question is it good for the game and the league that there is a two week break in the middle of the season?

In many European countries a winter break is in place. Many players and managers sing the praises of the process saying it allows them quality training sessions and helps them refocus for the rest of the season.

The Winter break has arrived in the Premier League and so far all clubs have used this time to rest and recuperate but how long will this last?

With money hungry clubs wanting to open new markets and revenue streams will clubs he looking to incorporate a mid season money spinning game to a audience which usually has to wait for a pre season or post season tour??

Traditionalists like the football around this time of year, snow, heavy rain, cup games all helps fatigue to set in and championships can be won or lost as teams drop off the pace.

Will the winter break now prevent this from happening?.

The positive idea behind the mid season break in the Premier league is that English football will be the same as most of the other clubs in Europe. This means the English players will have that rest period going into international tournaments which might give them extra boost might help secure a international trophy.

The other big news of the week is the announcement that Manchester United are investigating these possibility of rail seats being installed at Old Trafford.

Since the tragedy of Hillsbrough and Heysel the Football Association and the government banned terraces at the highest level of the game which has created in some cases soaless football grounds with no atmosphere which ultimately hurts the game.

In Most European countries including our neighbors Scotland have already installed rail seats and allows people to stand at a football match in a orderly fashion and generate a atmosphere.

It remains to be seen if Manchester United and the rest of the premier league agree between themselves to allow rail seats into the premier league. Money is a big factor I feel in this situation, can clubs sell seats to supporters who want to going to the game if it’s not going be used?? 

Manchester United are back in action on Monday against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge

Manchester United are currently 6 points adrift of the 4th place Chelsea and with games starting to run out is so important United try and close the gap. 

A win early in the season against Chelsea gave Ole and the fans confidence at the time that  Man Utd were on the right track, since then it’s been a bit inconsistent for Manchester United but I think Ole is confident he can get another result.

New signings Bruno Fernandes and Odion Ighalo will feature and Ole Gunna Solskjaer will be looking for a instant impact from both on Monday night to keep the confidence growing with the challenges that lay ahead of Manchester’s Red Devil’s.

Pictures from Man Utd social media

Blog by Rob Parkinson

Salford Red Devils v Huddesfield Giants Match report

After a miserable few days on the weather front the rain held off at the AJ Bell Stadium for Salford’s clash with Huddersfield. 

The Giants match with Leeds had been postponed last weekend but after an excellent away victory in round one at Catalans in Perpignan, Simon Woolford’s team were looking for two more points on the road. 

Salford started the game on the front foot forcing drop outs to test the visitors defence. Kris Welham came up with a piece of centre play right out of the top drawer to put Ken Sio in with a shout of a try but he was marginally in touch. 

The video referee was called in to action in the thirteenth minute as Sio again looked to squeeze in at the corner. Referee James Child awarded a try on the field but this was over turned after checking the various replays.

Huddersfield took the lead with a try from Adam O Brien. The busy Giants hooker snatching a try from close range. Aidan Sezer converted 0-6.

Ken Sio then made it third time lucky after slick passing from Niall Evalds and Kevin Brown put him over to score. Tui Lolohea’s goal attempt fell well short, 4-6.

It’s fair to say the first half had become a real arm wrestle. Neither side getting on top and not much fluidity in attack. 

The first action of the second half saw Tyrone McCarthy kick through for Evalds who desperately tried to pinch the try. The video referee was again called in to action and the try was denied.

Salford kept the pressure on and moments later they were rewarded when all action centre Dan Sarginson crashed over to nudge the Red Devils in front. Lolohea booted the goal of the touch line to put his side ahead 10-6.

Former Canberra Raiders star Sezer began to pull the strings for the Giants. Some of his kicks were slightly off kilter but his wonderful cut out pass found young winger Louis Senior who touched down to level the scores at 10-10.

Huddersfield took the ascendancy and began to play with a renewed energy. Jordan Turner forced a drop out as the pressure ramped up an extra few notches. To Salford’s credit their defence was up to the task.

Hard working Welham dumped Senior into touch with a crunching tackle as both sides scrapped for field position and territorial advantage.

As the match entered the closing five minutes it looked like a drop goal would be the favoured option for either side to grab the glory. Lolohea had a go but his kicked was dragged well wide of the mark. 

What happened next certainly cost Salford the match. Referee Child looked to have a awarded Salford a penalty within kicking distance. A huge fracas followed with Kevin Brown in the middle of it. The Red Devils scrum half was sent to the sin bin for a challenge on Turner. The Giants were awarded the penalty and moved down the pitch on the attack. Lee Mossop was pinged for off side bang in front of the posts with two minutes remaining. Sezer took the gift penalty goal on offer to wrap up the two points to send the Giants back to West Yorkshire with the narrow win. 

Salford coach Ian Watson took plenty of positives from the match and feels his new look side are improving despite the defeat. “A couple of bad reads meant we conceded two rubbish tries really. We’ll fix them up we just know that theirs certain things that we can be better at and improve at if we are going to be a top team”. 

Salford are at home again next Saturday when they face Leeds Rhinos at the AJ Bell Stadium. 

Final score Salford 10 Huddersfield 12.

Paul Whiteside.

Pictures by Steve McCormick 

Salford Red Devils v Huddesfield Giants Big Match preview

Salford v Huddersfield.

Many pundits don’t think much of the chances of either club in 2020. Perhaps the biggest surprise of round one was the Giants excellent away win at Catalans. The Dragons have made some eye catching signings in the close season to add to their already talented squad. A comprehensive display saw the French side well beaten 12-32 by Huddersfield.

The Giants were due to face Leeds Rhinos in round two but that game was postponed due to very poor weather conditions in West Yorkshire. 

After Salford’s thumping at St. Helens in round one the Red Devils battled to a hard fought win at home to Toronto last weekend.

Kevin Brown and Tui Lolohea are both finding their feet now. Their halfback partnership showed some really good signs. Brown has all the tricks in the book with a lovely accurate passing ability. Lolohea’s kicking game last weekend was superb.

Dan Sarginson picked up the man of the match award against Toronto and it was fully deserved. The former Wigan centre has a tremendous step and its great to see the aggression he plays with. In Sarginson and Kris Welham Salford have two classy centres who can supply plenty of ammunition to their wing partners this season.

2019 was a disappointing season for Huddersfield. A tenth place finish saw them just about survive a huge relegation scare, finishing just two points above bottom side London Broncos. 

The Giants have plenty of potential with an exciting crop of young players on the scene. Ambitious young coach Simon Woolford has made some real smart recruitment in the off season. Australian half back Aidan Sezer  is one of those players that has the X factor. He can lead a team round the pitch and comes to England with an excellent reputation having been a real lynch pin for Gold Coast Titans and Canberra Raiders over the past several years. If he gets it right and has the same effect Jackson Hastings had for Salford last season could the Giants be the surprise package of 2020?

Super League Home Record.

Salford 13

Draws 0

Huddersfield 9

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 (Qualifiers)

2017 Salford 36 Huddersfield 20

2017 Salford 52 Huddersfield 14 (Super Eights)

2018 Salford 16 Huddersfield 24

2019 Salford 18 Huddersfield 36

2019 Salford 32 Huddersfield 12

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, Saturday 9th September 2017.

Salford 52 Huddersfield 14.

After a tremendous adventure in the regular season Salford finished fourth in the League table. This set up our path into the Super Eights. It proved to be a very tough end to the season. Salford were comfortably beaten in their first four fixtures by Hull, Castleford, Wigan and Wakefield. This match gave the Red Devils faithful something to cheer with an emphatic dismantling of Huddersfield.

Salford had won the two regular season meetings, beating the Giants away 20-30 in round two and a 36-20 win at the AJ Bell Stadium.

Ian Watson’s men were definitely low on confidence, a losing streak of eight games on the trot including a Challenge Cup semi final defeat to Wigan had decimated the season. 

The Giants had no answer to the whirlwind that hit them in the first half. Kris Welham scored his 100th try of his career. Tyrone McCarthy and Kiwi winger Manu Vatuvei touched down before hard working centre Welham grabbed his second try.  Niall Evalds scored Salford’s fifth try of the half to put them in complete control at half time. Jermaine McGillvary’s try the Giants only points of the first 40.

Salford continued their onslaught after the break with quick fire tries from Vatuvei and youngster Jake Bibby. 

Some neat work from Robert Lui set up Ben Murdoch Masila to power over and with five minutes remaining the all action second rower Josh Jones touched down to cap off a fine display. 

The teams that day were;

Salford: Evalds, Bibby, Welham, Sa'u, Vatuvei, Lui, O'Brien, Kopczak, Tomkins, Hauraki, Murdoch-Masila, Jones, McCarthy.

Replacements: A. Walne, Brining, Lannon,

J. Walne.

Huddersfield: Rankin, McGillvary, Mellor, Turner, Ormsby, Gaskell, Brough, Ikahihifo, Leeming, Ta'ai, Roberts, Ferguson, Hinchcliffe.

Replacements: O'Brien, Rapira, Lawrence, Clough.

Referee: James Child 

Attendance 1,405.

Friday’s match .

This promises to be another exciting encounter under the lights at The AJ Bell Stadium. In my opinion we have the best pitch in the competition. It looked like at bowling green last Saturday and once again great credit needs to go to the ground staff for their hard work and expertise.

It is very likely Salford coach Ian Watson will keep faith with the players involved in last Saturday’s victory over Toronto. One slight concern will be the goal kicking. Just two successful conversions from the five tries last weekend saw watto change from Lolohea to Joey Lussick towards the end of the game.

Another intriguing battle will be fought between the two packs. Salford have some real grunt up front now with Gil Dudson, Lee Mossop and Sebastine Ikahihifo. Pauli Pauli is a real handful off the bench but the Giants have plenty of size in their squad to combat this. Ukuma Ta'ai is a very powerful player, Matty English impressed me last season and Suaia Matagi will be hard to stop.

As previously mentioned the Giants have a nucleus of young talent, Louis Senior is one to watch and Sam Wood is a real talent in the back line.

Aidan  Sezer will guide the team around the pitch but the Giants have made some other excellent pre season signings. Talented back Ashton Golding has joined from Leeds Rhinos and the versatile Kenny Edwards has arrived from Catalans.

Chester Butler the grandson of Salford RLFC legend and club hero Colin Dixon has moved to Huddersfield from close rivals Halifax.

Another player who always impresses me is Lee Gaskell. He could be set to partner Sezer at half back and along with Jordan Turner, Gaskell is another former Salford player. 

The action gets under way at 7:45pm

Safe travels and enjoy the match everyone. 

Paul Whiteside

Pictures by Steve McCormick 

View from the commentary box - Salford Red Devil’s

Salford Red Devil’s recorded their 1st win of 2020 by beating Toronto Wolfpack at the AJ Bell Stadium 24-16.

It was a hard fought battle between two sides in front of a strong 4500 crowd as Salford came out on top.

The try of the game came from Ryhs Williams, the Welsh Salford winger collected the ball in his own 20 metres threw and dummy and ran fully 80 metres running around Toronto Fullback Gary Wheeler to score to the delight of the Salford faithful.

The other Salford backs were competitive throughout but Dan Sarginson stood out as man of the match for me.

The England Knight centre showed he has the ability to turn a game and was a constant thorn in the Toronto team throughout the game and came up with the crutial score late in the 2nd half to make the game safe for Salford.

The game can be viewed on RDTV in full, the clubs TV channel is becoming very popular and is a must for any fans wanting to get the inside scoop on what is happening at the club.

There were milestones to celebrate to within the squad with Salford prop forward Lee Mossop recording his 200th super league appearance, Niall Evalds scoring on his 150th game for Salford and Pauli Pauli’s 100th career performance which included a disallowed try for the big forward shows this squad is full of experience and quality.

Ian Watson will he happy how the team dealt with Toronto Wolfpack’s Sonny Bill Williams. The big New Zealand forward showed glimpses of class particularly in his 2nd spell on the field but Salford had him wrapped up most of the time.

The most heartwarming part of his performance was after with the crowds boosted by 900 school children from the local area that waited behind after the final hooter for a selfie and autograph. He may be a super star in both codes of the game but he is down to earth enough to realise that fans meeting their hero will create a memory that will live forever.

A youthful reserve team were also in action this weekend, they dodged the storm devouring the county and travelled  to Newcastle to Face the Thunder.

Unfortunately despite two tries from Connor Maccallum Danny Barton’s men went down to defeat 23-16.

It has been reported in the press that with prop Adam Walker taking time out away from the club for personal reasons and Ian Watson is in the market for a player to boost his squad it shows that Ian would like maybe one more player so the squad is ready for the challenges that are ahead. 

Huddersfield Giants are the next team to arrive at the AJ Bell Stadium on Friday night. With their last game against Leeds Rhinos postponed due to Storm Ciara they will have 80 minutes less in their tank which I feel is a disadvantage at this part of the season.

With Jordan Turner, Lee Gaskell and Adam Walne all involved at Huddersfield Giants it might add some extra spice to the contest.

Unfortunately Huddersfield prop forward Sebastian Ikahehefo will not be involved for Salford due to the term of his loan agreement between the two clubs.

It promises to be a facinating encounter. Confidence boosted the Salford Red Devil’s will be looking to make it 2 wins in 3 games in the 2020 season.

Pictures by Mike Inkley and Steve McCormick 

Blog by Rob Parkinson.

Salford V Toronto Match Report

A week can be a long time in Rugby League as we’ve seen so far in round two of the new season. Toronto Wolfpack arrived for this fixture on the back of a defeat to Castleford last Sunday. 

The pressure was slightly on Salford to bounce back from last Friday’s thumping at St Helens. Ian Watson brought Connor Jones in to the starting line up with Joey Lussick on the bench.

The opening stages were fairly edgy with both sides trying to feel their way into the game. Tui Lolohea tested the Wolfpack with some clever kicking. The swirling wind round the AJ Bell Stadium gave Toronto full back Blake Wallace all kinds of problems.

Salford came close to opening the scoring when Kevin Brown offloaded close to the line but referee James Child ruled a knock on.

After a slight delay for a Toronto injury the visitors brought on substitute Gary Wheeler. The former St. Helens and Warrington player scored a try off his first touch of the ball showing great determination to touch down.

Joey Lussick’s introduction in the 25th minute seemed to push Salford through the gears. Another lovely Lolohea kick this time found Kevin Brown who scored a well deserved try much to the delight of the home supporters.

One or two strange decisions took the shine of a really good half of Rugby League. At first Ken Sio intercepted but the referee had already blown for a Toronto obstruction. Salford were awarded the penalty but would much rather have taken the advantage.

Kris Welham was sent to the sin bin for what looked like a 50-50 Challenge with Wheeler off yet another superb Salford attacking kick. Hakim Miloudi was also sin binned after a fracas in the aftermath.

The Red Devils found another level after the break. Some great play from the all action raw boned Dan Sarginson. Lolohea took the try to extend the lead.

It soon became back to back tries, from the re start Rhys Williams pouched the kick off and ran the full length of the field taking the full back on the outside to score a thrilling try. 

At 16-4 down the Wolfpack showed tremendous spirit to keep battling away and they were rewarded when Wheeler touched down for his second try from a neat kick through. Brad Singleton stormed over with ten minutes remaining. Wallace converted to level the scores at 16-16.

Salford though showed great character and punished the Wolfpack with two late tries. Brown put Sarginson over for a well deserved try. The former Wigan centre put in a man of the match display of real quality. Full back Niall Evalds was Johnny on the spot in the right place at the right as usual to put the game to bed with a try three minutes from time.

Speaking after the match Salford coach Ian Watson said, “ I think it’s a really good performance, you’d say not your best in terms of playing style and everything else, getting the wins the most important thing. Today was about starting to build again and stick with those processes going forward. 

Watson was also very happy with the half back partnership that is developing between Lolohea and Brown. “Their starting to figure out each other and starting to learn about where they need to be for each other and at what times.” Speaking about star Welsh winger Rhys Williams’s wonderful try, “dragon is deceptive in the way he looks, he likes his food, he’s very quick, he doesn’t look the quickest but you saw today you put in him space and he’s gone!”

Salford are back in action on Friday in another home match against Huddersfield Giants. This promises to be another intriguing game.

Salford 24 Toronto 16.

Paul Whiteside.

Pictures by Mike Inkley