Salford v warrington Match report

As the Challenge Cup dust settled it was straight back to business for the victorious Warrington Wolves. Taking St Helens out of the equation, the playoff places are so tight, each side knowing a defeat at this stage of the season could prove costly.

Prior to kick off Salford sat 2 points behind second place Warrington knowing a victory would take them level on points with just two regular season matches remaining. A lot has been made recently about the bottom end of the Super League table and the fight to avoid relegation. The playoff race though is equally as fascinating and with Salford’s terrific form of late their supporters arrived in fantastic spirits, believing perhaps something special could still be achieved in 2019.

The Wolves made a couple of changes to their side with Matty Smith coming back in. The well travelled half back had been cup tied for the Wembley final.

A dry fine evening welcomed both teams to the field. The pitch as ever in immaculate condition.

Early Salford pressure along with Tui Lolohea’s smart kicking game caught Warrington on the back foot. A penalty followed with the home side opting to kick the goal. 2-0.

Both sides were excellent in defence particularly on their own goal line. Frustration seemed to get the better of Lama Tasi when he tangled with Tyrone McCarthy and the game turned slightly scrappy. 

Salford kept plugging away with Lolohea and his excellent short kicking game. 

A tense but entertaining first half ended 2-0 in Salford’s favour.

The Red Devils shot out of the blocks at the start of the second half as they upped the intensity. Niall Evalds came close to scoring but was held up just short. Warrington finally cracked in the 49th minute though, Lolohea’s spiralling kick caused panic for the Wolves. The ball was spilled and Ken Sio swooped to grab the games first try. Krisnan Inu hit the post with his touch line conversion.

Salford are the second highest point scorers in Super League this year and that point was re-emphasised on another wonderful attacking move. The ball was kept alive before Kris Welham produced a brilliant piece of centre play to gift wrap Sio’s second try. 

Confidence was now flowing through the Red Devils and roared on by their magnificent home support they responded. Joey Lussick tore through a jaded Wolves defence before finding Jackson Hastings in support. Hastings kept a cool head to send Jake Bibby over for another fine try that took some scoring from the young winger. Inu converted to give Salford a 16-0 lead.

To their credit Warrington kept battling launching a desperate attack. A wayward pass was picked off by Sio who raced the full length of the field to score his hat trick try to seal another victory for the home side.

Young Warrington hooker Danny Walker scored a last gasp try to get his side on the score sheet. 

Speaking after the match Salford coach Ian Watson was pleased to get the victory, “we spoke about putting them under the pump and going set for set with them and if we had to win it on the back of kick chase game that’s what we was willing to do. We had to be professional and have the right mind set which we did.”

Salford have now won six games on the trot and travel to Headingley next Friday to face Leeds. Three victories there in the last 60 years (1959,1977 and 2009) make Leeds a bit of a graveyard for Salford sides of the past. Watson knows this is another important game for his side. “We want this one, no qualms about that.”

Just how far can this Salford side go in 2019? It’s going to be a very exciting few weeks ahead. 

Salford 22 Warrington 6.

Paul Whiteside.

Pictures by Steve McCormick 

Wigan v Salford Match report Sportszone

It had certainly been a busy week for Salford and their coach Ian Watson.

The former Welsh International was announced as Great Britain assistant to Wayne Bennett at the start of the week. Fantastic news that just shows Ian’s good work at Salford is being well noticed throughout the sport as his reputation continues to grow. 

Another huge story over the past seven days has been Robert Lui and his move to Leeds. Salford’s ‘Star Man’ was a huge fans favourite at the club with over a hundred appearances under his belt. As part of the deal Tongan international Tui Lolohea has joined the Red Devil’s and he went straight into the starting line up in place of Lui at stand off for last nights clash at Wigan.

Lee Mossop and George Griffin missed out through injury. Adam Walker was also absent as he serves a two match suspension.

Ben Nakubuwai returned to the starting line up, Ryan Lannon kept his place and Ken Sio was on the bench after recovering from injury.

Their was a bitter blow for Wigan in the opening minutes when captain Sean O’Loughlin left the field with an injury. The veteran forward went straight down the tunnel and didn’t return to action all evening. 

Krisnan Inu kicked Salford in front from a penalty goal before Niall Evalds came up with a wonderful try saving tackle to stop Wigan forward Tony Clubb. 

The home side levelled the scores mid way through the first half from Chris Hankinson’s penalty goal 2-2.

Salford were struggling to find a rhythm, with errors creeping into the play and a poor completion rate Wigan took control. Derrell Olpherts knocked on deep in his on half and from the resulting scrum the pressure told when Wigan winger Liam Marshall scored the games opening try. The lead was stretched further when Joe Greenwood followed up a perfectly timed kick from George Williams to just about ground the ball before the dead ball line.

Salford got back into the game just before the break. Lolohea’s high kick caused panic from the Warriors as two players collided going the ball. From the scrum Jackson Hastings wonderful pass put Olpherts over right on the half time hooter. 10-6.

Wigan cut loose at the start of the second half with two quick tries. A break right through the middle of the Salford defence allowed Jarrod Sammut to kick through for Zak Hardacker who touched down under the posts. Shortly after Marshall grabbed his second try of the match which Hankinson converted to give the Warriors a comfortable 22-6 lead.

The Marshall try certainly came at a cost for Salford, moments earlier Lolohea had a try turned down by referee Chris Kendal for a knock on which seemed a real 50/50 call.

Wigan were very methodical, completing their sets while not being too adventurous. On the other hand Salford looked lost on attack at times, with no real fluidity or cohesion. 

Gil Dudson and Romain Navarrette we’re sin binned with ten minutes to go after a heated exchange and a few punches were thrown. 

The hard working Hastings put Kris Welham over for a try with another super pass, his vision and speed of thought at times is remarkable.

Salford then threatened a grand stand come back but were denied a try as Hastings was called back for a forward pass.

The last word went to The Warriors, young forward Oliver Partington crashing over, Hankinson converting. 28-12.

A disappointment Ian Watson speaking after the match was unhappy at his sides error count and completion rate. “To many errors and we ended up losing the energy battle. They were better coming out of yardage than what we were”.

Speaking about new addition Lolohea, Watson said “Tui has come in today and Tui has done great. Everything we’ve asked of him he’s done. Obviously we were a bit disjointed in our attack, we need to fix that up.”

Salford are back in action next Thursday when they return to The AJ Bell Stadium to face Huddersfield Giants.

Paul Whiteside.

Pictures by Steve McCormick 

Salford Red Devils v Castleford Tigers Match report DITD

Another week has raced by in the World of Rugby League and yet again the Super League table is more compact than ever. Most teams have a couple of wins separating them from a playoff spot or a relegation battle.

London Broncos made it three wins on the spin last night in a classic match against Hull kr. The Robins are now bottom of the table.

St. Helens continue to set the pace at the top playing some fantastic rugby and look like they will take some stopping.

Salford are just four points above bottom place but a win tonight would see them into the playoff places. Tonight was probably the biggest game so far this season for The Red Devils who were looking to make it back to back wins after last Sunday’s much improved performance against Wakefield.

George Griffin missed out through injury with Ryan Lannon starting in the second row following his loan move from Hull kr.

Both sides traded sets early on with Salford matching Castleford’s big aggressive pack. The Red Devils were beginning to dominate with Jackson Hastings and Robert Lui working behind the platform laid by their pack.

Gil Dudson was unstoppable at times running his blood to water.

Good work from centre Krisnan Inu set up Niall Evalds to score the opening try of the match. The Salford fullback in the right place at the right time as usual.

Shortly after The Red Devils doubled their lead when Hastings sent Lee Mossop crashing over off a superbly timed pass.

Despite Salford’s dominance, individual errors kept Castleford in the hunt. Jake Bibby’s error deep in his own half gifted The Tigers good field position and a try followed from Daniel Smith.

Hastings hard work was rewarded with a try when the Australian showed wonderful determination to smash his way through the Castleford defence leaving Liam Watts in a heap. Hastings copped a high shot for his troubles but the sheer determination of the man continues to delight the Salford supporters.

It wasn’t the best half of rugby league for Salford’s wingers Derrell Olpherts and Jake Bibby. Poor ball handling a knocks on led to another try for the visitors. Greg Minikin touching down to reduce the deficit 18-10 three minutes from the break.

To round off the first half a real bizarre patch of play unfolded. As the hooter sounded Salford decided to take the two points on offer from a penalty they were awarded. Inu’s goal kick attempt hit the post with The Tigers regathering possession. A fumble from the visitors handed the ball back to Salford and surely they would take the tackle? Instead The Red Devils played panic rugby as if they were chasing the game. A real comedy of errors followed which led to a Castleford try from Cheyse Blair. A passage of play that would go down well on A Question Of Sports ‘what happened next’ round!

If Salford ever needed a forty minute performance now was the time. Ian Watson’s men produced exactly that, a half of grit, determination, courageous defence and superb game management.

Robert Lui came close to extending Salford’s lead but was tackled just short.

It wasn’t until the hour mark that the next points were scored. Joey Lussick with a thrilling break, then on the next play neat work from Kris Welham put Olpherts over for a vital try. Inu’s conversion extended the lead to 24-16 and Salford were certainly good value for it.

Castleford continued to press throwing a lot in attack but Salford’s resilience was admirable. The whole team worked for each other desperately covering and scrambling in defence.

Salford were seeking a knock out punch as the clock counted down. It never quite came but a monumental second half effort in defence had won a huge two competition points.

Inu landed a penalty goal as the hooter sounded for full time.

Salford coach Ian Watson was in good spirits after the game and rightly so.

His side move into fifth position with a trip to sixth place Wigan next Friday.

Watson saluted man of the match Gil Dudson and was very pleased with Ryan Lannon on his return to Salford.

The Red Devils are building momentum and growing in confidence at a crucial time in the season.

It’s all to play for in Super League for every single club. Who knows how far this Salford side can go in 2019! One things for sure it’s going to be an exciting journey to find out.

Final score Salford 26 Castleford 16.

Paul Whiteside.

Pictures by Steve McCormick 

Salford Red Devils v Wakefield Match report

After yesterday’s surprise results in Super League just six points separated the play off positions and bottom place. Danny Ward’s London Broncos were superb to thump Catalans in Perpignan and new Hull Kingston Rovers boss Tony Smith shocked his old club Warrington. This heaped even more pressure on Salford and Wakefield with both sides desperate not to get sucked in to the relegation dog fight.

The Red Devils and Trinity had lost their last four matches. Something had to give today. Salford coach Ian Watson made some changes, Daniel Murray and Adam Walker missed out. Lee Mossop returned along with Mark Flanagan, Logan Tomkins started at hooker. Ken Sio injured last week at Hull was replaced by Derrell Olpherts.

Salford scored the games first points after Robert Lui set up Jake Bibby with a super pass to allow the winger to squeeze in at the corner.

Tensions were high and tempers flared in the opening stages with the referee struggling to control the two sides.

Jacob Miller levelled the scores after Bibby failed to deal with a high kick. Danny Brough edged Trinity ahead with the conversion 4-6.

The visitors lead didn’t last long, Lui’s clever reverse kick found Niall Evalds who raced in to score. Salford made it back to back tries when the re start was kicked out on the full. Lui and Evalds combined to put Bibby in again.

The introduction of Joey Lussick offered a new attacking dimension for Ian Watson’s side and the young Australian hooker scored one of his trade mark tries before the break to give Salford a commanding 20-6 lead.

A poor start to the second half allowed Trinity to get their foot in the door. 

The Red Devils were half asleep as the kick off was allowed to go over the dead ball line. Wakefield built pressure with three sets camped on Salford’s line.

Ben Jones Bishop grabbed the try 20-12.

At times Lui looked unplayable with his creative edge and was constant attacking threat. Salford’s number six was rewarded with a try after he followed up his own kick.

Wakefield wouldn’t go away and hit back through Millers second try. A mistake at the back from Evalds allowing a simple score for the Wakefield stand off.

Holding a ten point advantage going in to the final quarter nerves were eased when Jackson Hastings set up Kris Welham with a delightful kick which completely fooled The Trinity defence.

Jones Bishop grabbed his second try twelve minutes from time but that was as good as it got for Wakefield.

Salford finished strongly with Lui provider again this time throwing an outrageous dummy before setting up Evalds for his second try and that try was his 100th career try. 

Shortly after Josh Jones and Hastings linked up well to send Evalds over for his hat trick. A wonderful support player who always seems to be there backing up bagging a well deserved treble to cap off a much needed victory.

A relieved Salford coach Ian Watson was in positive mood after the match.

“ I thought we controlled the whole tempo of the game on the front foot.

We needed a real focus on our start to the game and we made a few changes to get that.”

One blow for Salford was an injury to George Griffin. The all action second row man had is arm in a sling and may have torn a bicep.

The Red Devil’s leap frogged Wigan and Wakefield to go sixth in the table. 

Victory at home to Castleford next Friday will see Salford move in to fifth place. That is a game not to be missed and gets under way at The AJ Bell Stadium At 7:45pm

Final score Salford 44 Wakefield 20.

Paul Whiteside.

Pictures by Steve McCormick 

Salford Red Devils v Wakefield Match report

After yesterday’s surprise results in Super League just six points separated the play off positions and bottom place. Danny Ward’s London Broncos were superb to thump Catalans in Perpignan and new Hull Kingston Rovers boss Tony Smith shocked his old club Warrington. This heaped even more pressure on Salford and Wakefield with both sides desperate not to get sucked in to the relegation dog fight.

The Red Devils and Trinity had lost their last four matches. Something had to give today. Salford coach Ian Watson made some changes, Daniel Murray and Adam Walker missed out. Lee Mossop returned along with Mark Flanagan, Logan Tomkins started at hooker. Ken Sio injured last week at Hull was replaced by Derrell Olpherts.

Salford scored the games first points after Robert Lui set up Jake Bibby with a super pass to allow the winger to squeeze in at the corner.

Tensions were high and tempers flared in the opening stages with the referee struggling to control the two sides.

Jacob Miller levelled the scores after Bibby failed to deal with a high kick. Danny Brough edged Trinity ahead with the conversion 4-6.

The visitors lead didn’t last long, Lui’s clever reverse kick found Niall Evalds who raced in to score. Salford made it back to back tries when the re start was kicked out on the full. Lui and Evalds combined to put Bibby in again.

The introduction of Joey Lussick offered a new attacking dimension for Ian Watson’s side and the young Australian hooker scored one of his trade mark tries before the break to give Salford a commanding 20-6 lead.

A poor start to the second half allowed Trinity to get their foot in the door. 

The Red Devils were half asleep as the kick off was allowed to go over the dead ball line. Wakefield built pressure with three sets camped on Salford’s line.

Ben Jones Bishop grabbed the try 20-12.

At times Lui looked unplayable with his creative edge and was constant attacking threat. Salford’s number six was rewarded with a try after he followed up his own kick.

Wakefield wouldn’t go away and hit back through Millers second try. A mistake at the back from Evalds allowing a simple score for the Wakefield stand off.

Holding a ten point advantage going in to the final quarter nerves were eased when Jackson Hastings set up Kris Welham with a delightful kick which completely fooled The Trinity defence.

Jones Bishop grabbed his second try twelve minutes from time but that was as good as it got for Wakefield.

Salford finished strongly with Lui provider again this time throwing an outrageous dummy before setting up Evalds for his second try and that try was his 100th career try. 

Shortly after Josh Jones and Hastings linked up well to send Evalds over for his hat trick. A wonderful support player who always seems to be there backing up bagging a well deserved treble to cap off a much needed victory.

A relieved Salford coach Ian Watson was in positive mood after the match.

“ I thought we controlled the whole tempo of the game on the front foot.

We needed a real focus on our start to the game and we made a few changes to get that.”

One blow for Salford was an injury to George Griffin. The all action second row man had is arm in a sling and may have torn a bicep.

The Red Devil’s leap frogged Wigan and Wakefield to go sixth in the table. 

Victory at home to Castleford next Friday will see Salford move in to fifth place. That is a game not to be missed and gets under way at The AJ Bell Stadium At 7:45pm

Final score Salford 44 Wakefield 20.

Paul Whiteside.

Pictures by Steve McCormick 

DITD St Helens v Salford Red Devils match report

A week is a long time in Rugby League. So much can change, teams can be on a huge high one week and seven days later can hit a real low. 

Salford know that only too well this season having posted some breath taking victories so far but struggled to back them up. Consistency is definitely the key in Super League.

You have to go back to January 1980 for Salford’s last victory at St Helens. Ian Watson’s men were definitely under dogs going in to this clash knowing that every player needed to be on their game. The travelling Salford supporters have already seen two very unexpected and convincing wins at Catalans and Warrington in recent months so could tonight see yet another Watson master piece?

Early Salford pressure was sniffed out by Saints  before a thrilling break from Regan Grace turned Salford’s defence inside out. Lachlan Coote backs up to score the opening try of the match.

Shortly after the lead was doubled when Theo Fages neat kick bounced kindly for Coote to touch down for his second try. Coote’s second conversion giving Saints a very strong start. 12-0 after ten minutes.

On the very next set another try follows. Fages drops his shoulder to ghost through the gap feeding Tommy Mackinson to score.

Robert Lui produced a wonderful forty twenty kick to give Salford some light relief and a try came through an unlikely scorer in Gil Dudson. 

Krisnan Inu converting 16-6.

Derrell Olpherts came close but his squeeze in the corner was denied by the video referee.

With Saints on the attack smelling blood Salford managed to hold their line. Inu with a very brave but sensational offload sent Niall Evalds racing eighty yards to score 16-12.

The hosts launch another torrid attack but Salford’s defence holds firm before they cross the try line at the other end to the delight of the travelling supporters. The video referee was again called upon and this time Olpherts is not denied. Inu converting to give Salford a half time lead after a remarkable comeback.

Both sides began to trade sets at the start of the second half and Salford were certainly holding their own. Huge back rower Pauli Pauli adding real size to the pack on his debut looking quite a useful acquisition to the squad.

The first points of the second half went to Salford, Robert Lui powering through the defence showing great strength, with Evalds in support . Inu’s conversation extending the lead to 16-24.

Salford’s confidence continued to grow with them trying offloads and neat play they perhaps wouldn’t in normal circumstances.

Inu came close after some individual brilliance but from the resulting scrum Lui grabbed a well deserved try. Thirty unanswered point from Ian Watson’s side giving them a 16-30 lead. Salford were great value for their lead as well. Playing some outstanding attacking rugby.

Saints continued to attack throwing everything they had at a Salford side who defended so bravely at times.

The hosts grabbed a huge slice of luck when Coote scored his hat trick and on the very next set Tommy Mackinson burst through showing all the power and pace a world class winger should possess to touch down. 26-30.

As this fantastic match reached a climax in the final few minutes Saints received a penalty which put them in a great attacking position. Salford and their supporters knew this was the set they had to defend. James Bentley crashed over but looked to have lost the ball. The video referee was called upon for a match deciding decision. Heart wrenching for Salford the decision went the way of St. Helens and the try was awarded to tie the scores at 30-30.

Coote kicked the goal to snatch the victory.

After a fantastic effort from his team Salford coach Ian Watson couldn’t hide his disappointment after the match but knew their were so many positives his side can take from the match. “That’s the effort and the attitude we need to have every week. We’ve got a lot of good players in that group and we just want them to believe”.

Salford head to Liverpool next Sunday for a clash with Hull Kingston Rovers at the magic weekend.

St. Helens 32 Salford 30.

Paul Whiteside.

Pictures by Steve McCormick 

St Helens v Salford Red Devils Match report

A week is a long time in Rugby League. So much can change, teams can be on a huge high one week and seven days later can hit a real low. 

Salford know that only too well this season having posted some breath taking victories so far but struggled to back them up. Consistency is definitely the key in Super League.

You have to go back to January 1980 for Salford’s last victory at St Helens. Ian Watson’s men were definitely under dogs going in to this clash knowing that every player needed to be on their game. The travelling Salford supporters have already seen two very unexpected and convincing wins at Catalans and Warrington in recent months so could tonight see yet another Watson master piece?

Early Salford pressure was sniffed out by Saints  before a thrilling break from Regan Grace turned Salford’s defence inside out. Lachlan Coote backs up to score the opening try of the match.

Shortly after the lead was doubled when Theo Fages neat kick bounced kindly for Coote to touch down for his second try. Coote’s second conversion giving Saints a very strong start. 12-0 after ten minutes.

On the very next set another try follows. Fages drops his shoulder to ghost through the gap feeding Tommy Mackinson to score.

Robert Lui produced a wonderful forty twenty kick to give Salford some light relief and a try came through an unlikely scorer in Gil Dudson. 

Krisnan Inu converting 16-6.

Derrell Olpherts came close but his squeeze in the corner was denied by the video referee.

With Saints on the attack smelling blood Salford managed to hold their line. Inu with a very brave but sensational offload sent Niall Evalds racing eighty yards to score 16-12.

The hosts launch another torrid attack but Salford’s defence holds firm before they cross the try line at the other end to the delight of the travelling supporters. The video referee was again called upon and this time Olpherts is not denied. Inu converting to give Salford a half time lead after a remarkable comeback.

Both sides began to trade sets at the start of the second half and Salford were certainly holding their own. Huge back rower Pauli Pauli adding real size to the pack on his debut looking quite a useful acquisition to the squad.

The first points of the second half went to Salford, Robert Lui powering through the defence showing great strength, with Evalds in support . Inu’s conversation extending the lead to 16-24.

Salford’s confidence continued to grow with them trying offloads and neat play they perhaps wouldn’t in normal circumstances.

Inu came close after some individual brilliance but from the resulting scrum Lui grabbed a well deserved try. Thirty unanswered point from Ian Watson’s side giving them a 16-30 lead. Salford were great value for their lead as well. Playing some outstanding attacking rugby.

Saints continued to attack throwing everything they had at a Salford side who defended so bravely at times.

The hosts grabbed a huge slice of luck when Coote scored his hat trick and on the very next set Tommy Mackinson burst through showing all the power and pace a world class winger should possess to touch down. 26-30.

As this fantastic match reached a climax in the final few minutes Saints received a penalty which put them in a great attacking position. Salford and their supporters knew this was the set they had to defend. James Bentley crashed over but looked to have lost the ball. The video referee was called upon for a match deciding decision. Heart wrenching for Salford the decision went the way of St. Helens and the try was awarded to tie the scores at 30-30.

Coote kicked the goal to snatch the victory.

After a fantastic effort from his team Salford coach Ian Watson couldn’t hide his disappointment after the match but knew their were so many positives his side can take from the match. “That’s the effort and the attitude we need to have every week. We’ve got a lot of good players in that group and we just want them to believe”.

Salford head to Liverpool next Sunday for a clash with Hull Kingston Rovers at the magic weekend.

St. Helens 32 Salford 30.

Paul Whiteside.

Pictures by Steve McCormick 

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 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 

Catalan v Salford Match Report

Catalans Dragons continued there march to Super League safety and the Super Eights with a comfortable victory over struggling Salford.

Fouad Yaha scores the games opening try after a thrilling Dragon’s break.

Josh Drinkwater extended the hosts lead with a penalty goal.

Some neat off loads and support play then bust Salford down the middle, Drinkwater was backing up to score. His conversion made it 12-0.

A mistake from the kick off gifted Salford possession and they moved the  ball well. Derrell Olpherts scoring in the corner, Ed Chamberlain’s goal attempt was off target 12-4.

From the kick off Catalans put the ball out on the full to hand Salford a penalty in a good attacking position. Tyrone McCarthy’s knock on let the Dragons off the hook.

For the remainder of the first half the home side really upped the ante. Four consecutive goal line drop outs were forced. Salford’s defence stood firm but on the fourth set Jason Baitieri some how got the ball down to score.

Moments later The Dragons were in again, this time Drinkwater’s high kick caught Jake Bibby out. Kenny Edwards took advantage to score. 

Drinkwater’s kicking game was outstanding, the Australian has made a huge impact since moving to the South of France. It was yet another kick this time Olpherts couldn’t take it and the ball went from one side of the pitch to the other before Yaha squeezed in at the corner.

Leading 28-4 at half time Catalans put the game to bed in the early stages of the second half. A lovely tip on pass from Brayden Williame provided a hat trick for Yaha. Shortly after Yaha grabbed his fourth try, Drinkwater kicked off the touch line 38-4.

On a brighter note for coach Ian Watson and Salford was the return of Niall Evalds who came off the bench and looked sharp with some nice touches. Evalds will be a key man for the Red Devils in the middle eights. 

The hard working Josh Wood was rewarded with a try for Salford which Chamberlain converted 38-10

Catalans had the final say as kenny Edwards went over for second try on the back of yet another drop out. 

Josh Drinkwater could prove to be one of the signings of the season as the Dragons face St Helens in a Challenge cup semi final and will now prepare for an assault on the top eight. 

Salford’s final regular season game is at home to Leeds next Friday before the Middle Eights and a tough battle for top flight survival.

Final score Catalans 44 Salford 10

Paul Whiteside.

Pictures by Steve McCormick 

Salford in the 8 after Giant Win

With both sides at the wrong end of the Super League table a victory really did seem vital today for Salford. Just three minutes in Robert Lui kicked a fantastic 40/20 to get the Red Devil’s on the front foot.  The wet conditions were hampering both sides in the early stages with mistakes a plenty.

Mark Flanagan grabbed Salford’s first points powering over from close range. Lui converted 0-6. On the very next set Salford received a penalty and made the field position count. Three forwards combined to come up with a lovely move. Lee Mossop’s short pass to Flanagan who’s tap on pass found Ben Nakabuwia. Ben charged under the posts with Lui’s conversion doubling the lead to 0-12.

The Red Devil’s were now very much on top, Niall Evalds came close to scoring on his return from injury only to be denied by Giants wing man Aaron Murphy. 

Huddersfield got back into the match against the run of play. Logan Tomkins giving away a needless penalty when in possession by pushing at the play the ball right in front of his own sticks. Danny Brough’s long pass finding young winger Innes Senior who kept calm to finish superbly in the corner. Brough’s conversation dragging the Giants very much in to the contest. 6-12.

Salford’s defence had to stand firm for the later stages of the first half with the hosts enjoying plenty of possession and territory.

Robert Lui continued to cause havoc for the Giants slicing through there defence on another thrilling break. Jordan Rankin saves a certain try darting out of the defensive line to intercept the ball.

Three minutes in to the second half Salford edged further ahead from Lui’s penalty goal. Huddersfield conceding a real soft penalty for an incorrect play the ball. 6-14.

Weller Hauraki charged over for a well worked try after neat work from Lui and Littlejohn. This try really gave Salford some breathing space after lui tagged the conversion on 6-20.

For the next 15 minutes The Red Devil’s had plenty of defending to do with Giants half back pairing of Brough and Lee Gaskell throwing everything in to there attacks. Gaskell’s short pass to Oliver Roberts sent the strong forward crashing over to give the Giants hope 12-20.

With 8 minutes remaining Flanagan was taken out off the ball in a strong challenge. Lui wisely opting to take the two points on offer from the penalty . 

Danny Brough was then shown the red card by referee James Child for what appeared to be something that was said to the touch judge. Salford made the extra man count with Jake Bibby crossing for two tries in the final four minutes. Lui failing to convert both of them unfortunately hitting the post off the touch line with the final one.

A much needed victory for Ian Watson’s Salford side, the only real worry being a nasty looking injury to Josh Jones and Lee Mossop coming off after a head injury.

Speaking to Ian Watson after the game he was delighted with the result, 

“Away from home you’ve got to stick in and be tough we were pretty resilient defensively which got us the rewards at the back end of the game”.

Robert Lui and Weller Hauraki really were stand out performers for Salford who now turn there attention to Wakefield Trinity at the AJ Bell Stadium on Friday night.

Final score Huddersfield 12 Salford 30.

Paul Whiteside.

Pictures by Steve McCormick 

Widnes 24 Salford 16 match report

Widnes 24 Salford 16.

Ian Watson described it as a weird feeling at the final hooter. He was obviously disappointed with the score line but in a game Salford dominated for long periods they still managed to self destruct in the second half.

Derrell Olpherts made his debut and it was a good start for the Red Devil’s who were on the front foot in the opening exchanges asking all the questions.

Wing man Olpherts finished off a slick Salford move to squeeze in at the corner. Referee Ben Thaler checked with the video referee after calling a try as his on field decision. After a good few minutes the try was turned down.

Moments later though Robert Lui’s high kick was allowed to bounce, Josh Jones is alert and kept a cool head to send Craig Kopzack in for the opening try. Lui adds the goal 0-6.

Widnes were then denied a try from the video referee before scoring on the very next play. Chris Dean slicing through a gap in Salford’s defence. With the conversion the scores were level.

Robert Lui added two penalty goals in the closing stages of the first half to edge Salford in front 6-10 at half time.

Widnes seemed to up the tempo at the start of the second half. Lama Tasi was sin binned after just four minutes for a high tackle. The Vikings made the extra man count and it was good hands from half back Joe Mellor that put Christian Inu over. Inu added the conversion off the touch line to put the hosts in front 12-10.

Weller Hauraki grabbed a try to restore the lead for Salford, the video referee this time giving the Red Devil’s the nod. 

With just over 15 minutes to go the match hung in the balance with the Vikings trailing 12-14. Lui added another penalty after a widnes drop out failed to go ten meters 12-16.

The last ten minutes the game turned around completely. Back to back penalties got the Vikings on the front foot before Greg Burke crashed over from close range to level the scores. Inu had a simple conversion 18-16.

In the final few minutes Niall Evalds who had been a star performer all night for Salford couldn’t prevent the busy Aaron Heremaia scoring the game clinching try. It was a really tough on young Niall who had took every high ball as safe as houses and looked really sharp.

Ian Watson felt there were some harsh penalties that went against his side in what was a frustrating night for Salford. Widnes with a near faultless second half completion rate just did enough to take the points.

Catalan Dragons visit The AJ Bell Stadium on Good Friday with a 12pm kick off.

Paul Whiteside.

Pictures by Steve McCormick 📸