Warrington 26 Salford 10 Match report

Salford rounded off their pre season with a trip to the Halliwell Jones Stadium to face Warrington in Mike Cooper’s Testimonial match.

Both teams had strong sides on show as the count down to the new Super League season edged ever closer. In many ways this match felt like a dress rehearsal. 

The Red Devils struck first, Kevin Brown fired out a super pass to centre Dan Sarginson who powered over to score. 

The Wolves hit back when Toby King picked Ken Sio’s pocket, Warrington’s star centre pinched the ball after a tricky high kick. Stefan Ratchford’s conversion edged the home side in front 6-4.

Some strong running from Joe Philbin and Mike Cooper began to cause Salford problems and classy hooker Daryl Clark was his usually nippy self around the ruck.

The stand out performer was Warrington fullback Matty Ashton. After a fantastic season in 2019 with Swinton Lions the youngster was doing everything right. He looked very dangerous with ball in hand, his pace was frightening and defensively he looked very accomplished.

A lovely Salford move brought the game to life when Connor Jones put Niall Evalds through a gap. On the next play clinical handling and a real strong finish saw Sarginson score his second try to restore Salford’s lead. 6-10.

The Wolves seemed to be losing their way and became frustrated. The Red Devils pack we’re really muscling up in what was an impressive first half.

Stefan Ratchford surprisingly kicked a penalty goal two minutes before the break to reduce the deficit to 8-10.

After the entertaining arm wrestle of the first half the game seemed to open up in the second. Salford coach Ian Watson made plenty of substitutions in order to look at certain scenarios and combinations. This probably unsettled the rhythm of his side slightly. 

The first action of the second half saw Blake Austin kick a neat Forty Twenty. The Wolves built pressure with back to back sets before a Ben Murdoch Masila error let Salford off the hook temporarily.

Ashton glided through showing his lighting pace only to be brought down via a last ditch ankle tap. This only delayed the inevitable though with Anthony Gelling scoring on the next play as Ratchford kicked for him in space wide out.

Ken Sio spilled the ball under pressure which allowed Warrington to camp on Salford’s line with repeat sets. Brilliant scrambling defence helped the Red Devils repel this onslaught as the Wolves slightly over played their attack.

Former Rugby Union star Luther Burrell raced in to score a try before Tom Lineham sliced through a jaded Salford defence to round off the scoring.

Speaking after the match Salford coach Ian Watson was pleased with his sides progress in the pre season “ we wanted to really focus on how we started the game and the first forty to fifty minutes were the key to that. I thought we dominated for certain periods.” Speaking about Kevin Brown, Watson knows he has a player of real quality in the ranks “ people have wrote him off saying his old or he’s not good enough, he would of definitely partnered Blake Austin at Warrington last year if it wasn’t for the injury and to be fair would their season have been completely different with them two in the halves? Probably!”

Looking ahead to next weeks match at champions St. Helens “ we’ve ticked all the boxes in pre season, it’s the big one for us going there and testing ourselves.

Warrington 26 Salford 10.

Paul Whiteside.

Pictures by Steve McCormick 

Salford v Hull KR Match report DITD

End of season matches can sometimes been quite disappointing with nothing really on the line. This one though had everything to play for with both sides at different ends of the table. A win for Salford would guarantee fourth place but depending on the Warrington result The Red Devil’s could even snatch third from the Wolves. Hull Kr were one of four teams level on twenty points desperately fighting to avoid relegation. For the final round of the regular Super League season their were still so many permutations to how the final table would look.

Gil Dudson was missing for Salford after an injury picked up last Friday at Headingley. The Welshman has been ever present this season so far, becoming a huge favourite with the supporters. Hopefully he will be back in action for the playoffs. 

Dudson’s absence paved the way for Josh Johnson to return to a side bristling with confidence. It’s well over forty years since Salford won seven top flight games on the spin. Looking back over those matches most of them haven’t just been won, they’ve have been emphatic, with Ian Watson’s men taking their opponents apart!

It’s hard to describe how on loan Salford prop Daniel Murray was feeling prior to kick off. Murray lined up for the Robins against his parent club. On the flip side Ryan Lannon started on the bench for Salford on loan from Hull kr. To their credit both have been thoroughly professional about the situation and deserve huge praise for their performances in this match.

The opening stages were very cagey, Rovers played the percentage game trying not to show their hand. Jackson Hastings came close but was held up over the line by some stout defence.

The first points went to the visitors, Josh Drinkwater raced in after Salford were bust up down the middle. Ryan Shaw converted 0-6.

The Red Devil’s finally crossed for a try in the 32nd minute. Danny McGuire was sin binned for a professional foul as Hastings and Niall Evalds broke clear. McGuire held Evalds back from an offside position.

On the next set Hastings produced a wonderful pass to set Jake Bibby up to touch down out wide. Krisnan Inu dragged his conversion slightly wide, 4-6.

On the stroke of half time Shaw added a penalty goal from around 35 yards out to edge Rovers further in front at 4-8.

The Robins fully deserved the lead having battled hard in defence and chanced their arm in attack.

Salford struck first at the start of the second half. Tui Lolohea scoring a nice try close to the posts. Inu made a porridge of what looked a fairly simple conversion. 5 minutes later Inu confidently booted home a penalty goal from 40 yards out to give Salford the lead for the first time in the match.

Rovers wouldn’t lie down though and it was former Salford forward Weller Hauraki who’s neat flick pass produced another thrilling break. This time centre Kane Linnett raced to the line to score with Shaw again accurate as ever with the kick, 10-14.

With ten minutes remaining Shaw added another penalty goal that looked to have finally sunk Salford. Moments later Rovers went for a drop goal to make the game safe but somehow it was charged down.

After a modest and somewhat mediocre 70 minutes Salford started to spring into life. The pressure mounted on the visitors with repeat sets. Clinging on for their Super League lives Rovers did everything possible to repel the onslaught.

With just forty seconds remaining Joey Lussick charged at a very weary defence to crash over. The south stand roof almost came off with the huge roar and frantic scenes of celebration. Inu had to kick to draw the scores level and he made no mistake, 16-16.

Golden point extra time followed, two halves of five minutes with first team to score winning the match. The first five minutes were a stalemate. Both sides keeping a poker face. As the clock counted down in the second period of extra time Inu calmly slotted over Salford’s first drop goal of the season to snatch the victory 17-16.

Eight wins on the trot now for the Red Devil’s and a regular season league position of third place. Our highest league finish since the 1975/76 championship winning year. A remarkable achievement for such a small squad.

Salford will now visit Wigan Warriors in the playoffs next week. A fixture that coach Ian Watson is relishing. “ We need to be tough next week, it won’t be for the faint hearted put it that way”. Speaking about the first half Watson said, “we were flat, they were first to everything, their last plays were better than ours, their kick chase was better and all the little effort areas. Keeping it simple in the second half the boys turned the tide and got the result.”

Wigan Away next Friday promises to be another fantastic away trip with Salford supporters sure to be travelling in big numbers, another match not to be missed in this wonderful season.

Salford 17 Hull kr 16

Paul Whiteside.

Pictures by Steve McCormick 

Hull v salford big match preview ditd

Hull v Salford

The Airlie Birds of Hull may have missed out on a trip to Wembley but Lee Radford and his side are very much in the Super League race. 

Coming in to Saturday’s fixture both sides are in good form. Salford have won their last four matches. Hull have won three out of their last four with a 14-15 home defeat to Wigan being a slight disappointment.

The two sides have met twice this season already. Hull won on both occasions with the match at The KCOM back in June being a particularly exciting game. Salford roared back scoring three tries in the final ten minutes coming up just short in a 35-32 defeat. 

With just four matches of the regular season remaining so much could still happen to the Super League Table. St. Helens have already guaranteed themselves top spot and The League Leaders shield. Warrington and Hull have 32 points, Wigan sit fourth on 28 with Salford fifth on 26. Just outside the playoff spots ready to pounce are Castleford and Catalans.

The picture could change again this weekend at both ends of the table with the relegation battle equally as compelling.

Hull’s unpredictability has let them down at times this season but their is no doubting the quality of their squad. Marc Sneyd, Jake Connor and Albert Kelly provide the craft, Danny Houghton is one of the most reliable hookers in the country and the danger in the three quarter line provides a real threat. 

Veteran forward Gareth Ellis continues to impress at the age of 38 since coming out of retirement. With twenty seasons behind him and over 400 career appearances. Ellis is a modern day great having earned so much respect from supporters, players, coaches and the media both in England and Australia. Captaining Hull to Challenge Cup wins in 2016 and 2017 has made him a hero and fans favourite in Humberside.

Historically Salford’s record on the West Side of Hull is nothing to shout about. 

Since Hull’s move from the Boulevard to the KCOM Salford have managed just one victory with twenty defeats in the league. Two very thrilling cup ties have been won by Salford though a very late try in 2009 and a thrilling golden point drop goal a few years later. Some of those league defeats have been very heavy and made painful viewing for the supporters. The one victory we did get was most certainly a memorable one 18-54 in 2017. A fantastic performance and a Watson coaching Masterclass!

Super League away record.

Hull 20

Draws 0

Salford 1

1998 Hull 32 Salford 0

1999 Hull 18 Salford 12

2000 Hull 26 Salford 22

2001 Hull 40 Salford 8

2002 Hull 28 Salford 8

2002 Hull 60 Salford 16

2004 Hull 82 Salford 6

2005 Hull 20 Salford 6

2006 Hull 11 Salford 10

2007 Hull 48 Salford 26

2009 Hull 14 Salford 12

2010 Hull 34 Salford 12

2011 Hull 52 Salford 16

2012 Hull 34 Salford 26

2013 Hull 18 Salford 13

2014 Hull 30 Salford 8

2015 Hull 24 Salford 20

2016 Hull 42 Salford 20

2017 Hull 18 Salford 54

2017 Hull 32 Salford 18 (Super Eights)

2018 Hull 45 Salford 14

2019 Hull 35 Salford 32

They played for both 

Paul Fletcher, Richie Barnett, Brian Blacker, Jodie Broughton, Craig Coleman, Josh Griffin, Brad Hepi, Mark Johnson, Daniel Holdsworth, Alan Hunte, Stuart Howarth, Warren Jowitt, Tommy Lee, Ryan Mcgoldrick, Craig Murdock, Iafeta Paleaaesina, Tommy Saxton, Scott Taylor, Jordan Turner, Martin Gleeson and Marc Sneyd.

A match to remember Friday 7th April 2017.

Hull 18 Salford 54.

Sometimes in sport everything clicks, everything comes off and everything falls into place. On this special night two seasons ago Salford and their supporters at the KCOM stadium were in absolute dreamland. On a ground that had dished out so much pain to Salford and many heavy defeats.

Hull took the lead through winger Shaun Michaels before The Red Devils ran riot. Seven first half tries blew the hosts apart. Every time Salford we’re in possession anything seemed possible. Michael Dobson and Robert Lui worked their magic and a magnificent effort from the pack got the rampaging Red Devils well on the front foot. 

Greg Johnson and Craig Kopczak both crossed twice, while Robert Lui, Junior Sa'u and Justin Carney also went over before the break.

Whatever Hull coach Lee Radford said to his players at half time seemed to fire them up for a fight. The home side threatened a comeback with a couple of quick tries but Salford clicked back into gear. Michael Dobson and George Griffin touched down before Ben Murdoch Masila went on a swashbuckling charge to crash over right in front of the delighted travelling Salford supporters.

One or two ghosts were laid to rest that night. Ian Watson remained grounded and humble speaking after the match but had a slight twinkle in his eye!

Hull FC: Shaul; Michaels, Fonua, Griffin, Talanoa; Connor, Sneyd; Bowden, Washbrook, Watts, Manu, Minichiello, Thompson.

Replacements: Green, Turgut, Fash, Litten.

Sin-Bin: Sneyd (35), Shaul (67).

Salford Red Devils : O'Brien; Carney, Sa'u, Welham, Johnson; Lui, Dobson; Mossop, Tomkins, Tasi, Murdoch-Masila, Jones, Flanagan.

Replacements: Kopczak, Griffin, Walne, Carney.

Sin-Bin: Carney (59).

Attendance: 11,016

Referee: Gareth Hewer.

Saturday’s match.

Ian Watson and his Salford side have defied the odds all season. Written off most weeks by certain sections of the media and rugby league pundits seems to fuel the desire of Watson and his players. 

With such a small squad and limited resources to be sitting in fifth place with four matches remaining is nothing short of remarkable. 

The Red Devil’s have signed players over the last 12 months that have been cast aside by other clubs. Chances have been taken and faith has been restored, Watson has a habit of improving players not only on the pitch but as people off the pitch as well. 

With a fantastic togetherness and team spirit perhaps their are still some exciting times ahead for everyone at Salford this season. 2019 has been one heck of an adventure so far.

Both Hull and Salford play an entertaining brand of Rugby League. Salford are the second highest point scorers in Super League behind St. Helens which again is an unbelievable statistic.

With Jackson Hastings right up their in The Albert Goldthorpe medal and Man of steel ratings and not to forget Niall Evalds Super League’s leading try scorer the wider Rugby League community are beginning to take note.

Saturday’s match has all the hallmarks of a classic match. Two sides going flat out for the top five with just four points between them in the table.

The action gets under way at 5pm.

Safe journey everyone and enjoy the game.

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 

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 

Hull FC v Salford Red Devils match report

Hull v Salford 

It certainly didn’t feel like the month of June as both sides marched out for kick off. Heavy rain most of the day and a howling wind off the North Sea made Bovril perhaps the fitting drink for the evening. With both sides in and around the playoffs another crucial two points were on offer. 

On a very slippery pitch Kris Welham came close to opening the scoring off Robert Lui’s neat kick. The Hull defence just about clearing the danger.

On the very next set Hull scored from a near identical situation. Marc Sneyd with a pin point kick for Albert Kelly. 

The home side doubled their lead on the next set busting Salford down the middle with Jake Connor racing over. The dependable Sneyd made it 12-0.

Hull then scored another try to make it three from consecutive sets. Fantastic support play with Mark Minichiello crossing the white wash. 

A Hull knock on in centre field gave Salford some light relief and the Red Devils took advantage as Pauli Pauli crashed over reaching out superbly to score.

Hull continued to dominate with a slick off load game. Kelly scored his second try of the match weaving his way through a shell shocked Salford defence.

Jake Bibby returning to action on the wing finished a fine move with an acrobatic dive to just avoid the touch line. Krisnan Inu with a touch line conversion dragging the Red Devils back in to the contest at 24-12.

Five minutes before half time Hull landed another significant blow when Jamie Shaul ran Salford’s defence ragged before diving over for a well worked try.

Trailing 28-12 at half time Ian Watson’s men needed a good solid start to the second half and when Robert Lui forced his way over in the early stages the deficit was reduced to 28-16.

As the second half progressed Hull started to take fewer risks. Marc Sneyd’s safety first approach in poor conditions looked the sensible way to play. 

Sneyd’s deep kicking frustrating Salford and when Hull’s talisman scrum half dropped a goal with seventeen minutes remaining it looked a long road back.

Ratu Naulago looked to have put the game to bed bursting through deep in his own half and racing eighty yards to score. 

Hull almost made it back to back tries again with another swashbuckling attack. Jackson Hastings with some tremendous last ditch defending snuffed the chance out. 

Then a quite remarkable last six minutes.

Chris Green and Adam Walker we’re both sin binned in the final stages before Josh Griffin was shown the red card for a dangerous tackle on Inu.

Jake Bibby and Niall Evalds both poached tries to set up a grand stand finish.

Trailing by just three points Salford would get one last set of six but Marc Sneyd came up with a real awkward kick from the restart and the hesitant Salford players fumbled the ball in the in goal area gifting Hull possession. Sneyd booted the ball high in to the stand to the huge relief of the home supporters as the final hooter sounded.

Salford coach Ian Watson didn’t hide his anger speaking after the match, “their was people today who didn’t have that effort and that attitude to go and attack it in the first half. We all knew what was coming, it’s like we left our game plan at home.”

Salford are back in action next weekend when they host Wakefield Trinity.

Final score Hull 35 Salford 32.

Paul Whiteside.

Pictures by Steve McCormick 

Sportszone Hull Kr V Salford Red Devils Magic Weekend

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 

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 

DITD St Helens v Salford Red Devils Big match preview

St Helens v Salford 

Saturday 12th January 1980 seems a life time ago. So much has changed in sport and society in general but that’s how far you have to go back since Salford won this fixture. 

The Rubix cube had just made its debut at The International Toy Fair. New Romantics were taking over the pop charts and The British Steel Corporation had started a nationwide strike. 

Times were changing and so was the sport of Rugby League. Since Salford victory that day good performances in this fixture have certainly been hard to come by. 2007 and ten years later in 2017 were both heartbreaking for Salford and their supporters. Matty Smith kicking the decisive drop goals in both matches 27-26 and 25-24.

The 2017 match was a real bitter pill to swallow after Salford had lead 8-24 going in to the closing stages. It’s hard for me to say it but it was a remarkable comeback from a club that never seem to give in. “Never write off The Saints” as people say! 

Surly runs can’t go on forever can they? One things for certain Ian Watson’s men will have to be on the top of their game to have any chance in this fixture. This season has been a strange one so far for The Red Devils who have shown when then click in to gear they can beat anyone as we saw in Perpignan in March and at Warrington on Good Friday.

Super League away record.

St. Helens 22

Draws 0

Salford 0

1997  St. Helens 19 Salford 12

1998  St. Helens 48 Salford 12

1999  St. Helens 48 Salford 0

2000  St. Helens 46 Salford 22

2000  St. Helens 50 Salford 28

2001  St. Helens 66 Salford 16

2002  St. Helens 34 Salford 2

2004  St. Helens 40 Salford 4

2005  St. Helens 46 Salford 12

2006  St. Helens 28 Salford 6

2007  St. Helens 48 Salford 4

2007  St. Helens 27 Salford 26

2009  St. Helens 38 Salford 12

2010  St. Helens 58 Salford 34

2011  St. Helens 31 Salford 6 (played at Widnes)

2012  St. Helens 38 Salford 10

2013  St. Helens 14 Salford 10

2014  St. Helens 32 Salford 12

2015  St. Helens 32 Salford 12

2016  St. Helens 34 Salford 20

2017  St. Helens 25 Salford 24

2018  St. Helens 32 Salford 2

They played for both 

Over the years there has been so much player movement between the two clubs. The town of St Helens is a real hot bed of the game with some fantastic amateur set ups including Thatto Heath, Blackbrook and Clock Face. In the Super League era Matty Smith, Jordan Turner, Lama Tasi, Tommy Lee and Theo Fages have all moved to Saints from Salford. Willie Talu, Tony Puletua, Francis Meli, Mark Edmondson, Matty Ashurst, Andrew Dixon, Danny Arnold, Alan Hunte, Josh Jones, Bobbie Goulding, Lee Gaskell ,Paul Forber, Mark Lee, Jake Emmitt and Anthony Stewart to name a few in recent years to represent both sides.

Eric Prescott, Paul Groves, Paul Brownbill, John Mantle, Ken Gwilliam, George Nicholls and Darren Bloor played for both clubs in the pre super League era. The list could certainly go on as there are many more. Alex Murphy and Shaun McRae have coached both sides.

A match to remember 12th January 1980

St. Helens 17 Salford 18

After a successful period for Salford in the 1970s as the decade ended cracks were starting to appear. Players were moving on and some getting older but their was still some stalwarts at the club with Mike Coulman, Colin Dixon, Keith Fielding, Kenny Gill, Alan Grice, Steve Nash, Eric Prescott and Maurice Richards all on the playing roster. Between them they had tons of big game experience and hundreds of matches under their belts.

The 1979/80 season would go on to be modestly successful for Salford with a final league position of fourth. Top of the table at Christmas time and unbeaten in the league for the first few months of the season the supporters were dreaming of good times again. 

December 79 was a tough month and three defeats against three of the top sides of that period Bradford, Widnes and Hull Kr were a slight set back.

With young star hooker Paul O’Neil on international duty playing for Great Britain under 24s changes were made. Kevin Ashcroft came in at hooker for O’Neil and Sammy Turnbull played right centre. 

Scrum halves Dave Harris and Steve Nash were both injured so new signing John McAtee made his debut. 

Eric Prescott tackled everything putting in an all action display in the pack.

Mike Coulman ran the ball hard all afternoon against a very tough St. Helens pack that included terrific ball playing forward George Nicholls and big Powerful Eric Chisnall.

The game was nip and tuck all the way. Salford’s three tries came from Coulman, Prescott and Colin Whitfield. Goal kicking full back Steve Rule booted four conversions but the unlikely match winner was veteran hooker Kevin Ashcroft. His drop goal snatched it for Salford in what was a thrilling afternoon at Knowsley Road. 

The teams that day;

St. Helens, Brian Parkes, Les Jones, Clive Griffiths, Derek Noonan, Roy Mathias, 

Steve Peters, Johnny Smith, Mel James, Graham Liptrot, Eric Chisnall, Chris Seldon, Peter Gorley, George Nicholls. 

Subs, Denis Litherland and Roy Haggerty.

Salford, Steve Rule, Keith Fielding, Sam Turnbull, Colin Whitfield, Maurice Richards, Frank Wilson, John McAtee, Mike Coulman, Kevin Ashcroft, Tony Gourley, Chris Mcgreal, Stuart Williams, Eric Prescott.

Attendance, 4,111

Referee, Mr J.E. Smith. (Halifax) .

Friday’s match.

St. Helens have looked a step above the rest of the sides in Super League so far in 2019. Just one defeat in the south of France against Catalans Dragons is the only set back Justin Holbrook’s men have suffered. After a fantastic Easter Saints have eased up slightly in recent weeks. After a hard fought win at Hull Kr last Sunday’s Challenge Cup victory at Huddersfield was in the balance right until the final hooter.

One player who has really stood out for Saints in 2019 is star centre Kevin Naiqama. In his debut season he’s looked outstanding, with a superb off load and brilliant finishing ability. His lightning pace adds a little more quality to what is a frightening back line. Tommy Mackinson and Regan Grace are two of the most prolific wingers in the league.

The pack is quick, mobile and boasts plenty of size and aggression. 

Half backs Theo Fages and Johnny Lomax have been linking so well this season playing off that dominate pack. The whole team works like a well oiled machine. Efficient, reliable and relentless. St. Helens are going to take some stopping.

Salford’s defeat in The Challenge Cup last Saturday hit the supporters, Staff and players hard. A really disappointing performance, particularly in the second half were they had no answer to Hull Kingston Rovers dominance.

With Salford’s squad being a small one their isn’t many changes Ian Watson can make but it will be interesting to see the 19 man squad later in the week.

Watson continues to punch above his weight with really limited resources. He certainly has plenty to deal with but nothing seems to faze him. Jansin Turgut left the club last week under a cloud leaving the squad another man lighter.

With lots of rumours of players moving on next year and speculation here there and everywhere a positive performance and result on Friday would be very welcome.

Safe travels and enjoy the game everyone.

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 

Salford Red Devils v Leeds big match preview DITD

Salford v Leeds Match Preview.

Speaking after last Saturday’s win at London, Salford coach Ian Watson stated “we owe them one” when referring to Friday’s clash with Leeds. The two sides have met 22 times in the summer era at Salford with Leeds claiming 20 victories to The Red Devils 2. When the two sides met at The AJ Bell Stadium earlier this season The struggling Rhinos clicked into gear blowing Salford away 14-46 on a disappointing afternoon.

Under Coach David Furner Leeds have struggled to find consistency with just four wins so far leaving them in 10th place. Last weekend a healthy lead at home to fellow strugglers Hull Kingston Rovers was almost blown but the Rhinos frantically held on to clinch a 28-24 victory.

Salford will be looking to kick start their home form. With just one victory at home this season Watson and his players are desperate to impress.

Leeds definitely have some talented players in the ranks but for one reason or another haven’t really got going yet in 2019.

This could be a massive psychological hurdle for Salford to get over. Over the years The Loiners have been a huge thorn in the side at the Willows, Headingley, in Cup ties, finals and more recently they have an excellent record at The AJ Bell Stadium. 

With some huge games coming up in the month of May this one could really build some momentum particularly after a very good Easter and a real solid display at London last Saturday.

Watson is looking up the table not down and two points against Leeds keeps Salford in touch with the Super League top five.

Memorable results From Yesteryear.

Over the years their have been some thrilling encounters between the two sides. A Wednesday night fixture on bonfire night in 1958, a bitter rivalry in the 1970s, Leeds having the upper hand since the 80s and who could forget last season’s clash when Jackson Hastings made his Salford debut.

Salford 17 Leeds 22  5th November 1958 played under floodlights at 

Old Trafford.

Salford 27 Leeds 2   17th September 1971.

Salford 61 Leeds 13  17th March 1974.

Salford 7 Leeds 5   20th February 1976.

Salford 24 Leeds 7  21st September 1979.

Salford 16 Leeds 22   29th September 1985.

Salford 30 Leeds 38  12th May 1999

Salford 18 Leeds 19    16th June 2006

Salford 24 Leeds 30   11th September 2009

Salford 14 Leeds 10    9th April 2016.

Salford 38 Leeds 22   27th July 2018.

A match to remember Salford 61 Leeds 13  17th March 1974.

Rewind to just over forty five years ago and the Leeds hoodoo was just as evident as it is now. In the previous season of 1972/73 Leeds had done the league double over Salford and when the two sides had met in a classic match at Fartown in The John Player Trophy final the Loiners yet again had the edge.

Despite a fantastic effort, Colin Dixon’s try and David Watkins two conversions left Salford just short going down 12-7.

When the two sides met at The Willows on St Patrick’s day in 1974 Leeds had already broken Salford hearts knocking us out of the John player Trophy and the Challenge cup. The Challenge cup tie at Headingley had taken place a few weeks earlier in February. Salford were playing some fantastic rugby and the supporters were starting to believe that exciting times weren’t far off. 56 coaches left The Willows bound for Yorkshire. It wasn’t to be with Leeds clinging on for a 10-6 win.

To say Salford owed Leeds one was probably an understatement. A bitter rivalry had developed between the two sides and this particular Sunday afternoon in 1974 was definitely one to remember.

With the genius and creativity of Kenny Gill, the fantastic kicking of David Watkins, the leadership of captain courageous Chris Hesketh, the speed and strength of Colin Dixon the points kept coming much to the delight of the home crowd. Salford’s side had quality in every position, Paul Charlton one of the fittest players to grace the sport. A tremendously brave defender and sublime in attack. Ellis Devlin a hooker well ahead of his time and not to forget a back line that oozed pace and a slickness that many supporters admired.

Tries from Watkins 2, Devlin 2, Maurice Richards 2, Dixon 2, Charlton 2, Hesketh, Keith Fielding and Kenny Gill blew Leeds apart.

It’s fair to say this victory was a catalyst to drive Salford on for the remaining four weeks of the season where the fixtures came thick and fast. 

After victory at Wigan 12-21 Salford were crowned Champions of 73/74!

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, Richie Myler and David Young.

Friday’s match.

Salford will be looking to get out of the blocks early on Friday night. A good start is essential. Despite Leeds poor start to the season they have players who can cause damage and some exciting youngsters in their ranks.

Adam Cuthbertson is a strong forward who has one of the best off loads in the Super League. Hookers Brad Dwyer and Matt Parcell have impressed in recent weeks but the Rhinos conundrum remains their half back pairing. Last time out against Hull Kingston Rovers Tui Lolohea partnered Richie Myler. Lolohea has received plenty of criticism this season so the question is will coach David Furner keep faith with the pair on Friday.

 

Young fullback Jack Walker had a fantastic game when the two sides met earlier in the year and is as brave as they come. 

Jackson Hastings and Robert Lui will be looking to dominate for Salford and a young mobile pack has really impressed over the Easter fixtures. Daniel Murray continues to grow in confidence and is blossoming in to a very accomplished player. The all action Joey Lussick has been amongst the tries three games running and Josh Jones is one of the most consistent performers at the club.

Adam Walker failed a late fitness test last Saturday at London. His return would be a timely one, his size and aggression would certainly pose Leeds a big threat. 

This promises to be a fascinating encounter and one I am really excited for.

The race for the top five in 2019 is wide open and with a little consistency this Salford side is capable of upsetting the odds.

Safe travels and enjoy the game everyone.

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