London v Salford DITD match report

Salford Red Devil’s made it a hat trick of wins over London Broncos with a ruthless display in the capital. A near perfect first half of rugby league saw the visitors score six tries. The Broncos had no answer to the tempo and intensity of Ian Watson’s side. Mistakes were at a minimum as Salford looked capable of scoring on every set of six.

Krisnan Inu scored the games first try after latching on to a pin point Jackson Hastings kick. Soon after the lead was doubled when Mark Flanagan and Niall Evalds linked up superbly with a lovely exchange of passing. Flanagan finished off the move with Tui Lolohea converting the try, 0-12.

Josh Jones was a handful all afternoon with his powerful running and neat footwork baffling the jaded home sides defence. Jones went over from close range to score Salford’s third try after just sixteen minutes.

The Broncos first points of the match came somewhat against the run of play. Rhys Williams intercepted a wayward Lolohea pass to race ninety meters to score. Kieron Dixon added the goal 6-18.

Lolohea’s response was imminent with a deft kick through for full back Evalds to touch down. The Tongan international is finding his feet now and his hard work was rewarded with an interception try of his own in the thirty first minute.

The shell shocked Broncos struggled to build any sort of momentum as the first half was rounded off with yet another Salford try. Inu strolled in for his second try two minutes before the break after superb ball movement created the space for the Frenchman’s second try.

It didn’t take Salford long to make their mark on the second half. The tireless Hastings ran his blood to water yet again in an all action performance. The young Australian sliced through the fragile Broncos defence before sending Evalds over for his second try.

Kris Welham was next on the score sheet with a try. Welham who signed a contract for next season earlier in the week put in his usual accomplished display. A try in each of his last seven matches for Salford is a tremendous achievement and a run he will be eager to keep going.

London’s hard working forward Luke Yates gave the hosts some light relief with a try from close range to bring the scores to 12-48.

Hastings scored arguably the try of the match when he dropped his shoulder to shoot through a gap and back himself in a foot race to the line. A first class display from a first class player who is surely to stay well in the Man Of Steel Hunt. 

Despite such a dominant display from Salford, Danny Ward’s Broncos refused to throw the towel in and responded with two tries. 

Niall Evalds completed his hat trick five minutes from time as Salford made it ten tries on the day.

Derrell Olpherts was sin binned for a professional foul in the closing stages and on the back of that the hosts gave their supporters a crumb of comfort with the final try of the match from Robert Butler.

Speaking after the match Salford coach Ian Watson was delighted with his sides attitude and approach to the match. The twenty eight points conceded perhaps a slight concern but to score fifty eight away from home with a thirty point winning margin adds to Salford’s good points difference on the League table.

The Red Devil’s are back in action next Sunday when Huddersfield Giants visit The AJ Bell Stadium. It may be an old cliche again but Watson and his side will continue to focus on one game at a time. With seven wins on the road this season Salford continue to punch above their weight and their top five ambitions look alive and well. 

London Broncos 28 Salford 58.

Paul Whiteside.

Pictures by Steve McCormick 

Wigan v Salford DITD match report

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 

Wigan v Salford Big Match preview DITD

If you were to travel south of Cheshire to any part of the country and asked people to name a rugby league team I’d guess that Wigan would be a fairly popular answer. Wigan RL is an institution, so much history and tradition. Since the mid 80s they have lead the way in the sport with so much success.

Over the years the town of Wigan with its many amateur clubs has produced so many players that have gone on to represent all the different clubs in different divisions. Take Salford for example, we’ve had so many good Wigan born players over the years. That is something to be admired and respected. 

The Wigan fixture is one I always look out for at the start of the season. I suppose a comparison could be Manchester United in football. They are a significant scalp if you manage to beat them and no matter how much rival fans don’t like them they certainly can’t be ignored.

Wigan notched up an incredible eight consecutive Challenge Cup Titles between 1988 and 1995. Ironically it was Salford that brought that winning running to an end on a monumental day at The Willows in February 1996.

Although Wigan’s dominance in the summer era has been more modest, they have still managed three Challenge Cup wins, five Super League Titles and were World Club Champions In 2017.

After coach Shaun Wanes departure at the end of last season along with several key players leaving Wigan have struggled to build any momentum. Form has been patchy but over the last month or so results have gone in their favour after some battling performances. Going in to Friday nights clash The Warriors sit one place below Salford level on 18 points. The Red Devils have a superior points difference. 

Their still seems to be an uncertainty over who will be Wigan coach for next season. It’s going to be interesting to see what unfolds over the next few months.

Both sides have it all to play for and are capable of mounting an assault on the Top Five. 

Super League away record.

Wigan 19

Draws 0

Salford 2

1997 Wigan 14 Salford 21

1998 Wigan 34 Salford 6

1999 Wigan 64 Salford 2

2000 Wigan 52 Salford 20

2001 Wigan 70 Salford 4

2002 Wigan 32 Salford 0

2004 Wigan 20 Salford 10

2005 Wigan 40 Salford 12

2006 Wigan 20 Salford 12

2007 Wigan 40 Salford 16

2009 Wigan 34 Salford 18

2010 Wigan 60 Salford 10

2011 Wigan 52 Salford 18

2012 Wigan 38 Salford 6

2013 Wigan 46 Salford 6

2014 Wigan 45 Salford 4

2015 Wigan 19 Salford 12

2016 Wigan 20 Salford 16

2017 Wigan 16 Salford 31

2017 Wigan 42 Salford ( Super eights)

2018 Wigan 

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, Peter Smethurst, Stephen Wild and Phil Ford.

A match to remember Friday 5th May 2017.

Wigan 16 Salford 31.

2017 was a real rollercoaster season for Salford and their supporters. A fourth place finish after the regular season and an excellent run to The Challenge cup semi final. 

At the start of May The Red Devils were bang in form and turned up for this fixture full of confidence. Our last victory away at Wigan had come Twenty years early at Central Park 14-21 in the 1997 season. 

Wigan’s new stadium hadn’t been a happy hunting ground for Salford over the last couple of decades with some real heavy defeats and hapless performances. This night in May 2017 was a night to be proud of. Ian Watson’s side had some real young talent that took their opportunity giving the loyal away following a night to remember 

A blistering first half performance saw Salford take their chances really well. They were clinical and punished Wigan at crucial times. Tries came from Niall Evalds, Kris Welham and Ben Murdoch Masila. 

Michael Dobson orchestrated his side superbly, organising and barking instructions out. His half back partner Robert Lui was also at his best. Unpredictable and very deceptive Lui was a constant attacking threat.

Leading 0-16 at half time The Red Devils had played a near perfect forty minutes.

Salford looked like cruising to victory with two quick-fire second-half tries from Evalds and Greg Johnson as the Champions looked shell shocked. Although Wigan scores from Tom Davies, Ryan Sutton and Lewis Tierney made the score respectable, the night belonged to the visitors.

Gareth O'Brien was taken out as he dropped a goal, the one-pointer counted and the former Warrington man also slotted over the penalty to seal the win.

The month of May turned into a special month with four victories following the Wigan win. Hull Kr were beaten in The Challenge Cup, Leigh we’re put to the sword in the Magic Weekend clash at Newcastle, fifty points were put on Catalans before a bank holiday masterclass away at Warrington!

The teams that night were,

Wigan, Tierney, Davies, Forsyth, Burgess, Marshall, Woods, Powell, Nu’uausala,

Ganson, Sutton, Isa, Farrell, J. Tomkins.

Subs, Tautai, Gregson, Bretherton, Navarrette.

Salford, Evalds, Johnson, Welham, Jones, Bibby, Lui, Dobson, Tasi, L. Tomkins,

Walne, Lannon, Murdoch-Masila, Krasniqi.

Subs, Kopzack, Brining, Murray, O Brien.

Referee, Chris Campbell.

Attendance, 11,861.

Friday’s Match.

Both sides come into Friday’s match on winning form. Salford have won their last two matches at home to Wakefield and Castleford respectively.

Hosts Wigan have won their last three games and they’ve all been away from home.

Over the past week transfer speculation has been intensified, with Robert Lui a target for Leeds. As I write this nothing has yet been confirmed. 

One player moving on next year is Jake Bibby. Jake will join his home town club Wigan for the 2020 season. He will be looking to impress in this fixture and has been among the tries recently with five in the last three matches.

Chris Hankinson has impressed recently for the Warriors with some big performances at centre. His goal kicking has caught the eye and last weekend at Huddersfield he scored a try and kicked seven goals. The rest of Wigan’s three quarter line is also impressive. With Joe Burgess, Oliver Gildart and Liam Marshall providing plenty of pace. Zak Hardacker at fullback is a world class player on his day and with a fierce pack that don’t take any prisoners Salford need to be at their best.

Joe Greenwood is a very dangerous player when he receives the ball out wide or close to the line and with star stand-off George Williams providing the openings and opportunities Wigan’s left edge will be a big threat. 

Veteran Sean O’Loughlin has been back to form in recent weeks. The Warriors captain is now 36 with well over 400 appearances behind him since making his debut in 2002.

Salford coach Ian Watson will be looking for another big performance from his pack, particularly in defence. Prop Gil Dudson has been outstanding playing big minutes. 

Tyrone McCarthy has grasped his opportunity over the last couple of matches putting in some tremendous performances.

Captain Lee Mossop hobbled off injured after a big effort last Friday against Castleford and could be a doubt.

Jackson Hastings has been one of Salford’s most consistent performers this year, with an unbelievable work rate and attitude, his commitment to the cause is heart warming for the supporters to see which makes him a huge fans favourite.

An away fixture at Wigan is what I like to call the big stage. A real chance to showcase your skills and show the rugby league world what your all about.

Ian Watson and his side have continued to prove people wrong all season and victory in this match would be a huge boost to Salford’s ambitions for 2019.

A good start is imperative, the forward battle will be bruising and exciting to watch. This match has all the qualities to make it an absolute cracker.

Safe travels and enjoy the game everyone.

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 

DITD Hull KR v Salford Red Devils Magic Preview

Salford v Hull Kingston Rovers.

Salford’s first few adventures at the Magic Weekend saw some disappointing defeats. Two drubbings in Edinburgh against Warrington in 2007 and 2010 were followed by a shocking performance in Cardiff against Celtic Crusaders in 2011. 

I suppose their are pros and cons with the whole event but speaking as a Salford supporter I always treat the match as another two points the same as a regular season home or away match. It’s certainly a chance to play on a big stage in front of a sizeable crowd. For the past four years the Magic Weekend has been held in Newcastle which many fans have enjoyed. St James’s Park is right in the heart of the City Centre which added to the carnival atmosphere.

This year sees the weekend move to Anfield stadium in Liverpool.

After a thrilling encounter last weekend away at St Helens in a match that you will struggle to top for the rest of the season, certainly for shear excitement and end to end action. Agonisingly Ian Watson’s side came up just short but the amount of positives that can be taken from that match will surely stand The Red Devils in good stead for the rest of the campaign.

Salford have proved this year that when they get things right they can beat anyone and with the eyes of Rugby League on them this Sunday the players will want to impress. 

Super League Magic Weekend Record.

Won 4

Draws 0

Lost 7

2007, Salford 18  Warrington 50   Murrayfield, Edinburgh 

2009, Salford 16  Harlequins 24   Murrayfield, Edinburgh 

2010, Salford 16  Warrington 68   Murrayfield, Edinburgh 

2011, Salford 12  Celtic Crusaders 42  millennium stadium, Cardiff

2012, Salford 38  Huddersfield 34   Etihad Stadium, Manchester 

2013, Salford 28  Widnes 22  Etihad Stadium, Manchester 

2014, Salford 24  Widnes 30  Etihad Stadium, Manchester 

2015, Salford 16  Widnes 38 St James’s Park, Newcastle 

2016, Salford 18  Widnes 12  St James’s Park, Newcastle 

2017, Salford 36  Leigh 22  St James’s Park, Newcastle 

2018, Salford 12  Catalans Dragons 26 St James’s Park, Newcastle 

They played for both 

Here are a selection of players to have represented The Robins and The Red Devils,

Greg Austin, Colin Dixon, Greg Burke, Chris Charles, Michael Dobson, Sean Gleeson, Darrell Goulding, David Hodgson, Lee Jewitt, Justin Carney, Jordan Walne, Phil Joseph, Tommy Lee, Tyrone McCarthy, Craig Murdock, Cory Paterson, Gareth Price, Scott Taylor, Tony Puletua, Richard Smith, Iain Thornley, Kris Welham and Todd Carney.

A match to remember Sunday 27th May 2012.

Salford 38 Huddersfield 34.

After four straight miserable defeats at Magic this was a day to remember for Salford and their supporters. Long trips to Edinburgh and Cardiff had been huge let downs with heavy defeats. This match in 2012 was played a little closer to home at The Etihad Stadium, the home of Manchester City.

It was a lovely, warm and sunny afternoon with glorious temperatures, particularly at pitch side. 

Salford had gone six matches without a victory and went in to the match as under dogs. The Giants were a big, athletic team with plenty of power and pace in the backs. With talisman Danny Brough guiding them Huddersfield were a tough team to beat. 

Salford made the early running and Australian centre Joel Moon made that pressure count when he touched down following Jodie Broughton's unorthodox palm back of the ball. 

Kevin Brown and Luke George responded with tries for The Giants.

Salford then worked the ball from right to left through the halves and Luke Patten slipped the ball to Moon unopposed for his second score.

The Reds extended the lead with a nice try from centre Sean Gleason.

Speedster Broughton squeezed in for another Salford try just before the break to send Phil Veivers side in leading 16-22 at half time.

Leroy Cudjoe had a try chalked off by referee Tim Roby but this only seem to hand the momentum to Huddersfield. Two tries from the enormous Eorl Crabtree edged the Yorkshire side in to the lead.

Salford kept persevering and were rewarded with a try for their honest endeavour when Moon maintained his balance under pressure and offloaded to Broughton who raced in for his second to bring the scores within two as Holdsworth fluffed his conversion attempt.

Adam Sidlow powered over from a neat Stuart Howarth which saw the lead change hands in to Salford’s favour again. 

Huddersfield yet again showed their quality when a dummy half break from Jason Chan put Brough in under the posts and he stepped up to convert.

It was end to end nail biting action. The match balanced on a knife edge.

Salford's seventh try restored the lead yet again. Sidlow, who crossed for a second time to again open up the four-point gap with three minutes to play.

The big forward smashing his way to the line showing tremendous strength.

The Giants spurned late chances with Salford hanging on to win a super match 38-34.

The teams that day;

Huddersfield: Eden, McGillvary, Cudjoe, Wardle, George, Grix, Brough, Mason, Moore,Ferguson, Lawrence, Chan, Brown.

Replacements: Crabtree, Robinson, Fa'alogo, Faiumu.

Salford: Patten, Broughton, Moon, Gleeson, Williams, Holdsworth, Smith, Jewitt, Howarth, Sidlow, Ashurst, Nero, Wild.

Replacements: Owen, Anderson, Paleaaesina, McPherson.

Referee: Tim Roby 

Sunday’s match.

The two sides met just a few weeks ago in The Challenge Cup with Hull Kingston Rovers progressing to the Quarter Finals. Salford’s performance was poor particularly in the second half where a 16-6 lead was surrendered.

With London Broncos picking up a victory last weekend The Robins are dangerously hovering near the relegation zone. London, Leeds and Hull Kr all have eight points and with the Rhinos meeting the Broncos this very weekend, Super League could have a new team rooted to the foot of the table.

The two sides will kick off day two with the action getting under way at 1pm.

Victory for Salford puts them in real contention for a top half finish in the League table. With the Super eights from last season now a top five playoff only the most consistent sides will make the cut.

The Magic Weekend is a real feast of Rugby League and after last weekend’s Summer Bash proving a real success at Blackpool for The clubs in the Championship, The Super League now takes centre stage. 

Safe travels and enjoy the game everyone.

Paul Whiteside.

Pictures by Steve McCormick 

Salford 18 Wakefield 43 Match Report

Salford Suffered another painful defeat last night against Wakefield. Read all about it here as Paul Whiteside takes you through the action.

After the break for the Challenge cup final Salford returned to super eight action desperate for a win at home to Wakefield Trinity. 

The sides had already met three times this season with trinity victorious in two league encounters, while Salford won convincingly in the cup quarter final. 

The Red Devil's on the back of a seven game losing run  were in last chance saloon knowing defeat would probably be the end of any top four ambitions. A win how ever would see them right back in the hunt. 

Visitors Wakefield also having a excellent season came in to the match in fourth position. There form of late has been patchy but a super home drubbing of Leeds just a few weeks ago shows the danger they can possess tonight. Salford and there supporters were rocked this week with the news that Michael Dobson has played his last game for the club. The star scrum half will return to Australia at the end of the season. Unfortunately he can't play again this year due to a thumb injury leaving coach Ian Watson with more injuries to deal with. 

The two sides have met on seven previous occasions at the AJ bell stadium, Salford with five wins and Wakefield with two.

The action got under way with Salford scoring the opening try from Craig kopzack after a powerful run. Todd Carney kicked the goal 6-0.

Wakefield hit back after a real mess in the in goal area perhaps a touch of fortune about this one as Jake Miller touched down. Liam Finn converted 6-6.

Another Salford mistake as Gareth O Brien and Manu Vatuvei hesitated under a high kick. Trinity regathering and floating the ball out wide for Joe Arundel to score. Finn converted 6-12. 

Manu Vatuvei came close to scoring in the corner before Greg Johnson scored on the opposite side from a set scrum soaring through a huge gap. Todd Carney kicked off the touch line 12-12.

Moments later Wakefield were back in front when two Salford players went for the same ball gifting the visitors possession. Miller grabbed his second try with Finn converting 12-18. Finn added two penalty goals in the last three minutes of the half both from very similar positions. 12-22 half time.

Manu Vatuvei came up with a big error at the start of the second half fumbling the ball dead. From the drop out the trinity attacked, received a penalty and Finn obliged by taking the two. 12-24. Another Vatuvei mistake deep in his own half cost Salford more points when Tyler Randall raced through from a set scrum. Finn again added the goal 12-30, trinity were in complete control. Bill Tupou then scored after another thrilling attack. Finn converted off the touch line 12-36.

Tyler Randall grabbed his second try on the 58th minute, Finn faultless with the boot made it 9/9! 12-42 with 20 minutes remaining, it certainly was a tough night for the Salford supporters. 

Tyrone McCarthy collected his own clever kick in the closing stages to score. Carney converted 18-42. The scoring was rounded off by the excellent trinity half back Jacob miller with a drop goal. 

Another very disappointing night for Salford. Ian Watson was far from happy after the game with his teams performance. Chris Chester head coach of Wakefield said his side dominated for 65 minutes of the match and that was probably a fair assessment on another night to forget for Salford. It's going to be a tough long week for the Red Devil's who take on Huddersfield Giants next Saturday.

Pictures by Steve McCormick 

Hull FC 32 Salford 18 match report

Salford kicked off there super 8s campaign with a tough trip up the M62 to Hull. The Airlie birds were on a high after a terrific semi final display to dispatch Leeds. 

The Red Devil's made a bright start Manu Vatuvei taking a high kick and racing down the pitch. He then won a penalty and with some good work from Jake Bibby Vatuvei scores in the corner. With Michael Dobson not playing Todd Carney took on the goal kicking. His first attempt missed 0-4.

Todd Carney then came up with an error which allowed Hull the field position. Moments later after some poor defence Albert Kelly raced in to level the scores. Jake Connor added the goal 6-4. Hull then made it back to back tries Carlos Tuimavave going in after Salford were carved up through the middle. Connor added the goal 12-4.

Robert Lui then finds a bit of magic, his pass puts Niall Evalds through who races 60 yards to the line turning Hull full back Jamie Shaul inside out. Carney fails with the conversation attempt 12-8. 

Rob Lui starts to make a mark on the game with another super kick this time a high bomb is lost in the air by Hull winger Mahe Fonua. From a set scrum ten yards from the line Lui powers over to level the scores. Salford decide to change goal kickers and Lui kicks off the touch line to nudge the Red Devil's ahead 12-14.

Right on the hooter Salford are penalised and hull wisely take the two points on offer to level the score 14-14 half time.

Tyrone McCarthy comes close to opening the scoring at the start of the second half just missing a Lui kick into the in goal area. Shortly after another try goes begging when the busy Lui puts George Griffin through a big gap his pass finds Evalds before the ball goes to ground. 

The game then seem to change momentum wise on the next set when hull find a 40-20 kick from Danny Haughton. A high kick follows but no Salford player seems to jump allowing Fetuli Talanoa to score, Connor makes it 4/4 with the boot 20-14. Jake Connor continued to have a huge say in the game scoring a try after throwing a dummy to ease past some very ordinary Salford defence. His goal stretched the lead to 26-14.

Hulls off load was doing a lot of damage at times the Red Devil's defence looked all over the place. Tuimavave grabbed his second try with Connor converting to put the game out of Salford's reach 32-14. With 15 minutes to go Vatuvei scored his second try. The big kiwi making his mark on the night with a solid display. Another big performance from Niall Evalds at full back with Logan Tomkins playing 80 minutes in a brave display. 

Salford definitely missed Dobson's organisation, with Sau, Tasi, Mossop, Brining and Flanagan missing it was a tough night. Ian Watson was again disappointed at the end of the game with Castleford visiting the AJ bell stadium next Friday Salford are desperate to get a win to boost confidence. Manu Vatuvei is slotting in well and is only going to get better as the weeks go by. His go forward and meter making tonight were fantastic. Defence definitely needs work and the intensity that was there early in the season is missing at the moment. 

Final score Hull 32 Salford 18.

Report by Paul Whiteside 

Pictures by steve McCormick 

Salford 36 Huddersfield 20 match report

Salford got back to winning ways with a convincing win 36-20 against Huddersfield. Read all about it here as Paul Whiteside takes you through the action.

Salford returned to league action at the AJ Bell Stadium with the visit of in form and ever improving Huddersfield. The Giants had won four and drawn one of there last six games running up some big scores. The visitors boast a good record at Salford since we left the willows having won four out of there six visits. A win for the Red Devil's would see us back second in the table and after three league defeats on the trot Ian Watson and the team knew this game was vital. 

It wasn't the best start for Salford with Gareth O Briens kick off going out on the full. Shortly after Ben Murdoch Masila and Logan Tomkins picked up head injuries leaving the field for assessments. Leroy Cudjoe got the opening score for the visitors on the back of a mistake a few plays earlier from O Brien. Danny Brough added the goal 0-6.

Kris Brining then left the field with a nasty cut to the head, Ian Watson had to shuffle things around best he could. Michael Dobson was back in the halves with Robert Lui and it was luis teasing kick that forced a drop out. Superb ball movement and quick hands saw Junior Sau score his 8th try of the season. Dobson's kick levelled the scores 6-6.

Five minutes later Lui weaved his magic yet again stepping his way to the line showing great strength to touch down. Dobson's kick again was good 12-6.

On the very next set things got even better for Salford with a try right out of the top drawer. Good work from the hard working Josh Jones followed by a swashbuckling run from Masila. The big man sets Greg Johnson away who then sends a peach of a pass to Kris Welham who races under the posts for one of the tries of the year! Dobson tags the two points on 18-6. 

The Giants hit back with an excellent 40/20 kick from Brough and on the next play they have the numbers for Aaron Murphy to touch down in the corner. Brough missing the kick 18-10. 

Two minutes before half time Salford opt to kick for goal from a penalty well within Dobson's range, but it drifts wide.

18-10 half time.

Salford start the second half with real purpose blitzing the Giants with four tries in 11 minutes. Gareth O Brien showing a touch of class to ghost over Dobson kick missing. On the next set Junior Sau powered over for his second this time Dobson's kick hit the very top of the post which is probably quite hard to do and very rare. Greg Johnson then strolled in from a Murdoch Masila pass before Big Ben himself crashed over on the back over another Dobson 40-20 his second of the match. Dobson's goal kicking being a bit patchy this afternoon.

 Salford were now turning on the style though having opened up a 36-10 lead. The Giants didn't throw the towel scoring two tries themselves in the final 14 minutes from kruise leeming and Darnell McIntosh. This how ever was Salford's day a real solid display and the victory takes them to second in the super league table. 

Assistant coach Willie Poaching was delighted after the match with the spirit and hard work of the side. Logan Tomkins and Mark Flanagan picked up injuries and will be assessed tomorrow. It's all about recovery now for the Red Devil's with a huge game against third placed Leeds at the AJ bell stadium next Sunday. The games and coming thick and fast but this group of players that Salford RLFC have are thriving on it. How far can these lads go who knows?? It's going to be a very exciting ride to find out! 

Pictures by Steve McCormick 

Salford Red Devils v Huddesfield Giants Big Match preview

Salford Red Devil's take on Huddersfield Giants on Sunday at the AJ Bell Stadium. It's a big game for both sides. Check out Paul Parkins big match preview here for all the build up.

Now this could be a real significant moment for both teams season. For Salford it has to be a must win if we’re to achieve a top 4 finish. After slipping to 3 consecutive league losses the chasing pack is closing in and we now sit only just 2 points ahead of fifth placed Wakefield and with only 2 home games remaining. Watto will be keen to end the regular season well. As for the Giants they’ve been on a pretty impressive run of form taking 9 points out of a possible 12 over the past 6 matches scoring 187 points and only conceding only 89. However its not all good news for them after losing in form full back Jake Mamo to injury. As far as we’re aware (at the time of writing) Salford have no fresh injury concerns.

I fancy we’re in for a cracker.

Battle 1 Michael Dobson v Danny Brough

Possibly THE key battle in the story of this match. These two maestros have the potential to craft out a win for their respective sides. Dobson was a sorely missed component in last weeks heart-breaking defeat to Saints, with him on the park you have to feel his leadership and mastery would have stabilised our ship when the pressure came. As for Brough what can we say that hasn’t already been said a thousand times, a complete maverick, genius one minute a brain explosion the next, unpredictable to say the least but when on form easily one of the best around.

Battle 2 Ben Murdoch-Masila v Sebastine Ikahihfo

Two massive men up against each other here, both will give their sides plenty of go forward and the opposition a heap of problems. BMM has been unbelievable this season but last week St Helens did a real job in stopping him and he’ll have a huge point to prove. As for Auckland born Ikahihfo is an absolute wrecking ball of a runner often scuttling players left right and centre. These two will be exciting to watch unless you’re the one they’re running at!

Battle 3 Josh Jones v Leroy Cudjoe

Two players that need no introduction. Josh uncompromising running style often causes teams problems and I’m sure he’ll be geared up for this confrontation against the experienced Cudjoe, the guy has been there and see it and is a huge influence on his troops. A huge threat going forward and with a very dangerous offload that can create space and opportunities for his wing man.

Head to Head

Form guide

St Helens 25 Salford 24 Match Report

 

Last night Salford suffered late heartbreak as Ex Red Matty Smith prouduced a stunning late drop goal to snatch the points for the Saints. Paul Whiteside looks back at the late drama which unfolded at the Totally Wicked Stadium.

The last time Salford won away at St Helens The pretenders were number one in the charts, a pint of beer was 33 pence  and US president Jimmy Carter was about to announce his country's boycott of the Olympic Games! January 1980 a Kevin Ashcroft drop goal the difference in a 17-18 victory at Knowsley road.

 37 year later Salford are riding high in the table and in their first cup semi final since 1998 they took on a St. Helens side who have there own desires to make the top four. 

The opening ten minutes were tight with defences on top. Salford got the first points from Todd Carneys penalty goal. 0-2. Shortly after Mark Flanagan hits a crash ball only to be denied a try by superb saints defence. 

The home side took the lead in the 24th minute when Matty Smith opened the Red Devil's defence with a smart dummy. Mark Percival adding the goal 6-2. 5 minutes later saints stretch the lead with a penalty after Kris Welham was penalised for a high tackle. 8-2. 

 

Saints first half defence is almost faultless until the hooter sounds then a speculative Carney kick is fumbled allowing Niall Evalds to pounce under the posts. Carneys kick levels the scores at half time. 8-8.

Whatever Ian Watson said to his players at half time had a great effect. Salford coming out with renewed energy and gusto, Josh Jones following up his own kick to trap Saints in goal forcing a drop out. Lui and Evalds combine to send Greg Johnson over for a super Salford try in the corner. Carney hits the post with the conversation attempt 8-12. 

The Red Devil's continue to work hard in defence with some good solid sets. Carneys kicking game pinning the saints back in there own half. The Australian really starts to take control of the game. 

 

The excellent Kris Brining with a rip roaring run provides the stage for Lui to work some magic dancing his way over the line to open up a gap for Salford. Carneys goal is good 8-18.

Saints first real chance of the second half is snuffed out by Lui who's excellent tackle denies young Regan Grace a try. 

Salford's next try comes after 3 successive drops out grind saints down. Niall Evalds finishes superbly off Todd Carneys pin point kick. Carneys goal is tagged on 8-24.

As the game approaches the final ten minutes the Red Devil's seem on course for a famous win. James Roby comes up with a quick fire score which Percival converts 14-24. 

Moments later Theo Fages forces a drop. The pressure starts to build as Saints throw caution to the wind. Grace spins out of Johnsons tackle to crash over in the corner. Percival can't convert 18-24. With just two minutes remaining saints break again with Matty smith. Johnny lomax completes a famous comeback with a try under the posts. Percival converts to level the scores 24-24 with a minute remaining. 

Salford defend a set from the kick off as a draw seems the likely result. As the hooter sounds Robert Lui puts a kick through in a crazy situation.  Matty Smith comes up with possession to drop a goal from 40 yards out as a great escape is completed with Salford snatching defeat from the jaws of victory. 

 

Ian Watson was bitterly disappointed after the game with the last ten minutes of the match. Salford need to learn to close games like this down especially as the business end of the season will soon be on us. After a pulsating roller coaster second half the long wait continues for Salford. Final score 

St. Helens 25 Salford 24.

Your listening to this weeks Devil in the Detail. All the latest Salford Red Devil's news and chat. Ryan Wilkinson joins us to talk about the latest challenge cup ticket news, BBC radio Manchester's Phil Kinsella on the next step for Salford and lots more Salford chat. Tune in here