leigh v Salford big match preview

Salford Red Devil's take on Leigh Centurions in the final game of the regular super league season, a win for Salford would give them confidence ahead of the big challenge cup semi final next week. Paul Parkin looks at the facts, stats and who might be the match winners in this fascinating encounter.

So, we’re down to our final match of the “regular” season before the big split, which for the first time since this concept was introduced we’re on the right side of. Now the question is can we save our spot in the top 4 which in all honesty we deserve?, a feat not achieved since the 1979/80 season and possible finish where we start this round in 3rd which is even more of an effort and would only be the 15th time we’ve finished in the top 3 in our Rugby League playing history.

 As for Leigh, it’s been a struggle at times as the season has worn on, they started strongly but soon came to terms that Super League can be a real slog. However, they will be keen to do all they can not to sit bottom going in to the horrible matter of the middle eights, a win over the Red Devils and a Widnes defeat and they’ll manage it. 

The rivalry between the two clubs is long and colourful and you can add both club owners into that. Both sides coming of defeats, Salford away at Castleford and Leigh also in Yorkshire at Huddersfield. Leigh also have had the much-expected news of Jamie Acton who will now sit out most of the rest of the season.

Battle 1: Niall Evalds & Jake Bibby v Matty Dawson & Adam Higson

If last week told us anything it’s our defence on the flanks is, well let’s say in need of improvement… it became a little alarming at times how easily we were beaten out wide and I’m sure this is something the coach Ian Watson has put plenty of focus on this week in training and I’m also sure that Neil Dukes has looked at as a week spot in our armour and will be instruct his team to attack the wings as often as possible and with Dawson and Higson facing up against two non-wingers in Bibby and Evalds this will be a real test.

Battle 2: Logan Tomkins v Micky Higham & Eloi Pelissier

It may appear to be a bit unfair pairing up the Leigh combo against Logan but that’s the situation we have, Leigh have two out and out quality hookers in their squad for the match and both can cause plenty of damage from acting half. Salford on the other hand are missing Kris Brining who has been excellent for us this year and is a huge loss so responsibility rests with Tomkins who has been outstanding, his work rate is second to none, he’ll probably be rotated with Rob Lui who did well in that position last week but its unnatural for him to defend in that role which can be crucial so I expect Logan to do plenty of minutes.

Battle 3: Lama Tazi v Gareth Hock

Two big uncompromising men who will give no quarter, I’m looking forward to these two facing off against each other both strong runners and powerful defenders and both can be a little hot headed in the heat of the battle. We’ve seen what Hock can produce in his punctuated time with the Reds and Lama is in the form of his life putting in big minutes as well as big hits, if these two get stuck into each other stay out of the way!!

Head to head

Form

Check out our new show here for all the latest Salford Red Devil's news and chat. We are joined by The Daily Mirrors Rugby League correspondent Gareth Walker who give us his views on a whole range of rugby league topics, we look back at the Castleford defeat with Dan Murray and Rob Lui, reaction to the Tyrone McCarthy signing and loads more. Check it out here.

Castleford 38 Salford 14 Match report

Salford were beaten at high flying Castleford last night. Check out Paul Whiteside's match report here.

For the penultimate match of the regular season Salford faced a tough task away at Castleford. The Tigers were unbeaten at home going into the game and looking quite formidable. 

Niall Evalds came up with a mistake on the first set taking a tricky Luke Gale kick over the touch line. Castleford made it a repeat set with a penalty and Gales wide pass found top try scorer Greg Eden who touched down in the corner. Gale couldn't add the kick 4-0.

Salford hit back though when Michael Dobson's caught Eden out. Gareth O Brien came up with a lovely dummy to stride over. Dobson missed the kick 4-4.

Young Daniel Murray then came up with a fantastic try saving tackle as cas chanced there arm. 

The Tigers really were dominating the first quarter possession and territory wise. The pressure eventually told when Ben Roberts scored from a set scrum. Gale adding the kick 10-4

The Tigers then came up with some real quick flowing rugby and fast hands. Greg Eden again over in the corner. Video referee was called on and the try was awarded. Gales goal was good 16-4.

Salford showed grit and determination to fight back Niall Evalds raced 60yards on a thrilling break, Zak hardacker coming up with an important tackle to stop him. 

The Tigers then kicked a penalty goal to stretch there lead to 18-4.

Robert Lui playing at hooker skipped through the Castleford defence finding Kris Welham who went over. Dobson's goal got Salford back in the game 5 minutes before half time at 18-10.

Three minutes in to the second half came a real crucial moment. Fantastic ball movement from Salford Jake Bibby squeezed in at the corner only to be denied by the video referee. The Red Devil's were being punished heavily in the penalty count and another soft one  carried the Tigers down the short pitch. Michael Shenton put Joel Monaghan over to take the wind out of Salford's resistance. Gales goal extended the lead to 24-10. 

Zak Hardacker then raced over after a huge punch up started on the half way line. 30-10 after Gales goal.

Jake Bibby came up with an exceptional finish in the corner to lift the Red Devil's supporters spirits! Dobson's goal missed 30-14.

Niall Evalds was then denied a try by the video referee after the on field decision was in his favour. Another very harsh call on Salford to add to a frustrating night. Yet another penalty taking the count to 13-4 in Castlefords favour. Gale popped the goal over 38-14.

Weller Hauraki was sin binned in the closing stages as Luke Gale carried on assisting the referee as he had done all night. Some real solid displays in the forwards from young Murray and Jordon Walne have Ian Watson much to be positive about. Salford may have lost this battle but there is still a lot of exciting opportunities ahead of them this season! Next up is Leigh away next Friday.

 Final score at Wheldon Road Castleford 38 Salford 14.

Pictures by Steve McCormick 

Castleford Tigers v Salford Red Devils Big match preview

Salford Red Devil's travel to Castleford Tigers on Friday in a top of the table clash. Check out Paul Parkin's big match preview below.

Michal Dobson V Luke Gale

This will no doubt be the key battle and both players are the organisers of their teams. Both similar in there game styles it will be interesting who will come out on top with Dobson's kicking game being vital to the Devils and Gale's general attacking play for the Tigers. For me this battle will be the one to watch.

Mike Mckeenen V BMM

Big Ben had a really strong game last week and we will need him to be at his best against a very strong Tigers pack 

McMeeken has been an outstanding player for the Tigers since his arrival from the London Broncos. His performances this season show that he will be one player we need to target if we are to get the 2 points.

Gaz Obrien v Zak Hardaker 

Both dynamic fullbacks they are a very important attacking weapon and like to loop round their the field to create some magic out wide. Obrien after a brief period out of the side has been re positioned to Fullback and will be looking to make a impression. Hardaker is a game winner and will be looking to put in another 10/10 performance from fullback to keep the tigers form going.

Head to Head

Form guide

Salford v Leeds match report

Salford suffered a heavy defeat to Leeds Rhinos on a warm Sunday afternoon at the AJ Bell Stadium. Paul Whiteside takes you through the action.

On a red hot day a mouth watering clash of rugby league was on the menu at the AJ Bell Stadium with second place Salford taking on third placed Leeds. The Rhinos were in good form with four wins in there last five games in all competitions. 

The Red Devil's were without the inspirational Mark Flanagan and Logan Tomkins, with Josh Wood coming in at hooker. 

It was young Wood who got the first try following a mistake from Leeds full back Jack Walker  Michael Dobson converted 6-0 after just three minutes. 

Carl Ablett came close for the visitors but his try was ruled out for a double movement. Ryan Hall powered his way to the line shortly after with Kalum Watkins converting to level the scores at 6-6. Leeds started to really up the anti forcing drop outs and building pressure. Junior Sau came up with a try saving tackle on Tom Briscoe after Niall Evalds had shot out of the line looking for the interception. 

Dobson's knock on centre field gave the Rhinos good field position and quick hands to Briscoe for a try. Watkins kick from the touch line hit the post 6-10.

It was now all one way traffic Leeds busting Salford down the middle with the Red Devil's having now answer to there power and pace. Watkins went over on the very next set this time adding the goal to open up a ten point lead. 6-16.

Five minutes later and Salford are carved up all to easy again this time Matt Parcell crossing the line, Watkins again adding the goal 6-22. 

Ten minutes before the break Junior Sau was sin binned for a high tackle on Watkins. The Rhinos made the extra man count instantly with Joel Moon grabbing a try. Jordan Lilly missed the kick 6-26. Jamie Jones Buchanan then went over Lilly goal 6-32. There was time for just one more before the interval with Danny McGuire placing a perfect kick behind Salford's defence for Briscoe. Lilly missed the goal but Salford had a huge task ahead of them 6-36 half time! 

Ben Murdoch Masila charged over in the early exchanges of the second half. Dobson's conversation making the score 12-36. Salford then huffed and puffed before Leeds took the sting out of the match on the hour mark when young Lilly kicked a penalty goal 12-38.

 Dobson worked tirelessly all game and was rewarded with a try on 64 minutes which he converted 18-38. The next set of six really summed up Salford's day when O Brien threw a real hospital pass to Lui who couldn't take it in deep in the Red Devil's half. The impressive Anthony mullally crossing for a try which Lilly converted 18-44. 

Murdoch Masila showed great strength to score his second try as he really looks unstoppable in the opponents 20 zone. Dobson added the goal to give the score a bit of respectability 24-44. Dobson then put a lovely weighted kick for Robert Lui who just couldn't gather over the try line. Leeds had the last word scoring on the hooter with jack walker. Lilly bringing up the 50 points with a kick off the touch line to rub salt in the wounds. 

A day to forget for Salford and how many of these have been against Leeds over the years. The two sides will meet again at least once more this year in the super eights. Ian Watson was bitterly disappointed after match with injuries to Kris Brining and Greg Johnson to deal with. An away trip to Castleford awaits next Friday where Ian and the lads will look to put things right. 

Salford 24 Leeds 50.

Pictures by Steve McCormick 

Salford Red Devils v Leeds Rhinos Big Match Preview

Salford Red Devil's take on Leeds Rhinos at the AJ Bell Stadium this Sunday it's a big game Paul Parkin takes a look at both sides and what we have the look forward to on Sunday.

Well I’m not sure how I’m going to put into words how big this match is for both teams. This could be HUGE! For Salford a win in this could be (If tonight’s Wakefield v Cas game goes in our favour) confirmation of virtually a top 4 finish (crikey) with our superior points difference, still plenty of water to pass under the bridge yet mind. For Leeds well a win for them and like Salford could almost secure their finish in the 4. This is HUGE!

Battle 1: Rob Lui v Joel Moon

Two guys are bang in form right here, and both with magic in their hands (and feet). Rob Lui, new contract in pocket (relief for everyone involved) turned out another man of the match performance in last Sundays win over Huddersfield bagging himself a try in doing so, some of the stuff he produces is mesmerising at times especially for opposing defences. As for Moon, well we know only too well of his prowess, the guy is pure class (Except when making up stories of homesickness) quality in either centre or as has been the case recently at stand off his control of the play and chance creation is top drawer and with an eye for the try line with 14 this season. This could be the key battle of the match.

Battle 2: Michael Dobson v Danny McGuire

The two experienced heads in each camp here, both have seen it and done it at the top level for years. Dobbo our commandeering chief controls every aspect of our game , speeding it up or slowing us down when required, his kicking game last week was unbelievable at times popping up with 2 40/20’s. As for Danny McGuire what can be said his career had been packed with highlights and trophies, epic moments and quality tries. After serving a one match ban last week he’ll be more than up for breaking Salford hearts for the umpteenth time.

Battle 3: Junior Sa’u v Kallum Watkins

If life had have worked out differently these two could have been Salford centre partners but sadly for us that never happened. Junior has been in great form of late not only his trademark blockbusting runs but with plenty of four pointers 9 in the league alone so far this season and he made 155 meters last week to get us on the front foot. Kallum Watkins the former Salford ball boy looks back to his best and that’s pretty scary for every other team in Super League.  His speed and size are enough to cause problems but added to that some silky skills he’s a real star.

Form guide

Last 5 Home Super League Matches

Sunday 9th April 2016

Salford 14 Leeds 10

Sunday 12th April 2015

Salford 18 Leeds 28

Friday 25th July 2014

Salford 18 Leeds 22

Friday 9th August 2013

Salford 16 Leeds 42

Friday 16th March 2012

Salford 16 Leeds 56

Squad news

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