Match report Warrington 40 Salford 14

Salfords hopes of a top 8 finish ended as a mixture of Marwan Koukashs failure to get any points back in Salfords appeal and defeat in Warrington meant Salford now have to plan for another season battling in the middle 8s. Paul Whiteside takes you through the game.

After a real tough day for the faithful Salford made the trip to Warrington. Talking to fans before the game there seemed a spirit and togetherness on the terraces. The game started at a good tempo and Salford grabbed the first points from a great grubber kick from Robert Lui as Junior Sau pounced to score. Gareth o Brien missed the goal kick, 0-4. Salford attack again and a half chance goes begging when Gareth o Brien can't take the pass. The Reds then receive a penalty 40 yards out and cautiously kick for goal. It's wide and the score stays at 0-4. Chris Sandow shows some lovely footwork and Daryl Clark grubber kicks but Craig kopzack is there to clear up the danger close to the Salford line. 21 minutes gone and Warrington look to get away with crossing but on the next play there over the line. The video referee is called upon and the try is awarded to Joe Westerman. Ratchford kicks the goal 6-4.

Gareth o Brien takes a huge bomb brilliantly as Stefan Ratchford follows up with a solid tackle, o Brien manages to escape the in goal area with a wonderful piece of determination. Salford come up with an error 20 yards out and the wolves are on the attack. Junior Sau fails to track his man and Ryan Atkins is in for the second wolves try. Young Declan Patton kicks off the touch line 12-4. Two minutes to the break and poor defending again from Weller Hauraki as Ben Currie splits the defence and Atkins strolls over. Patton kicks another tough conversion 18-4 at half time.

Warrington start the second half with a try from Tom Lineham. Ratchford misses the kick 22-4. Salford begin to fight back and Lui and o Brien combine well to send Josh Griffin over. Rather unluckily at the conversion poor Gareth o Brien slips and misses. 22-8. The Red Devils start to get on top, a great burst from Sau and Shaun Kenny is in support but he knocks on under pressure from the wolves defence going over the line for what looked a certain try.

The next set Sandow takes the pressure of the wolves with a 40-20, they fail to capitalise as Ratchford knocks on. 20 minutes left and Sandow changes the game with a lovely reverse kick which he follows up himself and forces a drop out. Westerman scoots over from dummy half to score a real soft try with Patton adding the goal to take the game away from Salford 28-8. Mason Caton Brown comes up with an error from a wolves kick and Michael Dobson is caught offside. Warrington attack and Patton is over for a try, he also adds the goal 34-8. Sandow is having a special night and puts another 40-20 kick in to really knock the stuffing out of Salford. On the next set his sublime grubber kick sees another try as matty Russell goes over. Patton adds the goal 40-8. Ten minutes to go and Robert Lui from at set scrum shows a glimmer of magic to dummy his way over for a nice try. O Brien adds the goal 40-14.

As the clock counts down the grafting Craig kopzack is pulled back with the line open for a forward pass, he really deserved a try and looked dejected at the decision from the referee joe Cobb. With four minutes remains Greg Johnson seemed certain to score but was denied by the video referee after losing the ball over the line. Over all a disappointing day for Salford. With two games left before the spilt we are now going to be playing in the middle 8s and battling for super league survival. The supporters were awesome again tonight and there loyalty is a great comfort in a difficult time of the season! Final score Warrington 40 Salford 14.

Ian Watson in the press conference after the game said

First half we let them score some soft tries, we had a real dig early doors, but 2nd half we were flat.

we have  a reaily good group, we have spoken about adversity, but emotion only takes you so far. its been a tough day all round.

We spoke at the beginning of the year about being  competitive. We need to finish the year strongly.

We need to finish these next two games and make sure we know that we are a top 6 team.

Big match preview Warrington V Salford

Thursday night Salford take on Warrington Wolves at the Halliwell Jones stadium, it promises to be a epic encounter with both sides looking for a win. Dan Robinson takes you though all the pre match info.

Griffin has been a strong leader in the pack so far this season and like his fellow front rower Kopczak he has done the hard work both in attack and defence. Having been given the number 10 jersey at the start of the year he has really been a valued member of the Red Devils this season so far and will look to continue in good performances on Thursday night.

The big powerful unit of sims will be looking to get on the front foot come Thursday. He does like the tough side of the game and the Reds will need to keep a close eye on him come Thursday. Hopefully the Reds big guns can keep Mr Sims night very quiet.

Both key players for their respective sides. Rob Lui needs to shine on Thursday. A fantastic start to the 2016 campaign but in recent weeks has not been up to the mark. Everyone knows what he is capable of and hopefully this will be seen at the home of the wolves. Sandow has been the main player in the Warrington side this season. He has won some games single handed and none other then the return fixture at the AJ Bell earlier on in the season slotting over the winning drop goal on the hooter. The Red Devils will have to stop the wolves number 7 before he even gets started.

After his man of the match performance against the Tigers on Friday night the Reds utility back will look to repeat this at the home of his former employers. His first return to the Wolves since leaving for the Reds O'Brien will look to show them what they lost and what the Reds gained. I feel his kicking game will be crucial come Thursday.

O'Brien made over 61 appearances for the wolves from 2011-2015 scoring 229 points. Whilst with the wolves he made a variety on loan moves to Saints, Cas Tigers, Widnes and Swinton Lions. He is now a regular fixture in the Devils side.

Ratchford spent 5 years at Salford coming through the academy ranks and making over 78 appearances for the first team in that time scoring 146 points in the process. He moved to the wolves in 2012 and has won the challenge cup with them. Stefan is a crutial cog in the warrington machine and it will be a interesting battle to see who comes out on top.

Stats

 Team news

Salford Red Devils 22 Castleford 18 MATCH REPORT

Salford Red Devils secured a victory against Castleford tigers to keep their top 8 hopes alive at the AJ Bell. Paul Whiteside takes you though the action.

After a weeks break for the challenge cup Salford were back in action at home to Castleford and looking for a first league double over the Tigers since 2004. It was a very tight opening but Castleford got the first points when Jake Webster powered over the line from close range on the back of some harsh penalties from referee James child. Luke Gale added the goal 0-6. Four minutes later and Salford created a magic moment as Robert Lui and Michael Dobson combined to send Gareth O Brien over in the corner. O Brien couldn't manage the kick 4-6.

Tempers flare after 20 minutes and there's an altercation centre field. Salford receive the penalty even though the Tigers were in possession. The Reds make it count with a fantastic Robert Lui grubber kick is pounced on by Michael Dobson. Gas o Brien kicks the goal to edge Salford in front 10-6.

With 30 minutes on the clock and Castleford were over again. Jake Webster gots his second try after some poor Salford defending. Luke Gale kicks the goal and the Tigers lead 12-10.
Salfords new signing Shaun kenny replaced Logan Tomkins to make his Salford debut and gets a great reception from the loyal Salford faithful. O Brien is caught very high by Ben crooks and the incident is put on report. Salford pile the pressure on and force a drop out. Greg Johnson looks to score out wide with an acrobatic finish only to be denied by the video referee. Halt time Salford 10-12

Castleford The Tigers start the second half fast and on the front foot making an early break then forcing a drop out. Luke Dorn goes through a huge gap to waltz in and Luke Gales conversation opens an eight point gap 10-18. The weather changes again and a huge down pour is followed by a rainbow right across the stadium. 20 minutes left and from a tap penalty Salford move the ball tremendously and score a try as good as you will see through Mason Caton Brown. Brown looked very sharp all evening and really seems to have filled out! O Brien kicks off the touch line 16-18.

Salford attack and after a penalty for a high shot on lui the Reds decided to kick for goal and level the scores 18-18 with ten minutes to play. Castlefords discipline lets them down again another high tackle this time on Dobson and from 40 yards out o Brien kicks Salford into the lead 20-18.

The Tigers start to throw everything at Salford in the remains minutes but the Reds defence holds firm. Another high shot and the hooter sounds as Salford receive the penalty. O Brien adds a little salt to Castlefords wounds and sends the Salford supporters home happy and still dreaming of the top eight. Salford found that pot of gold at the end of the huge rainbow that hung over the AJ bell stadium tonight and can go to Warrington still knowing there's a chance to catch the top eight! This wasn't salford's best 80minutes of the season but it was a courageous one and one we really desperately needed! Final score Salford 22 Castleford 18

Big match preview Salford V Castleford

Salford take on Castleford Tigers at the AJ bell on Friday, both teams play attractive rugby at times and this game could be a thriller. Dan Robinson takes you though both teams, the stats and where the game could be wo and lost.

The Battles

Its going to be a huge battle between these two players, both strong both in attack  and defence. Salford and Castleford will be looking to give both players early ball to cause damage.

Both fullbacks are so important to their sides, both slight in stature but both equally as dangerous when givne space in the attacking line. Will be a interesting battle who comes out on top on Friday

Dobson v Gale is a key battle, both players create so much for both sides and are key members of the team.

Salford are full of attacking talent and with Junior Sau

in top form at the moment he will be the dangerman for

Castleford to look out for on Friday night

With Solomona out injured for Castleford

their attacking threat is Jake Webster and Luke Dorn.

Both players are great try scorers and Salford will need to be on form to keep them quiet

 

The meter makers will be important on Friday, with Carney absent Salfords go forward will be the responsibility of Junior SAU and Josh Jones to get Salford on the front foot.
Webster and Mckeenan for Castleford will need to work extra hard with Solomona out for Castleford to produce go forward for the Yorkshire men.

Defence will be a key area on Friday
Salford have Logan Tomkins, Craig Kopzak and George Griffin
who will be looking to secure the Salford defence against this
attacking Castleford line up

Castlefords defence will need to be tight in this game and the
responsibility is in the hands of Milner, McShane and Mcmeeken to
defend well

Match report Salford 30 Huddesfield 31

Salford were beaten in a emotial night  at the AJ Bell stadium by Huddesfield Giants and Rugby league came together to moan the loss of Ronan Costello. Paul takes you through the action

The Giants had sacked there coach Paul Anderson in the week so Andy Kelly was in charge. Salford get of to the perfect start as Craig Kopzack steams on to a pass to charge over against his former club. Gareth o Brien kicked the goal and Salford lead 6-0.

From the kick off Justin Carney comes up with the error to gift the Giants possession. They force a drop out and on the repeat set score in the corner through Jake Connor. Danny Brough misses the goal. 6-4.

Salford start to up the tempo and with a teasing kick out wide from Robert lui Giants spill the ball but Salford can't capitalize . 

Salford start to apply the pressure and get another set when a penalty is awarded for a high tackle on Ben Murdoch Masila. It's frustrating for the Reds as Gareth o Brien knocks on and the chance is gone.

Masila makes an error in his own half and the Giants put Salford on the back foot and a drop out is forced after a clever kick. Ukuma Ta'ai forced his way over from the resulting set showing great strength with plenty of defenders round him. Brough kicks the goal to edge the Giants ahead 6-10.

 From the next set of six Huddersfield break away again after good work from half back Jamie Ellis. Leroy Cudjoe is on the end of it to touch down. Danny Brough adds the goal 6-16 after half an hour. 

Just before the break Salford work the ball really well and Gareth o Brien who could have probably scored himself gives it Daniel Vidot to squeeze in the corner. Fantastic kick off the touch line from O Brien and its 12-16 at half time.

At the start of the second half Salford turn down the opportunity to kick a penalty goal. After 50 minutes Danny brough wins a penalty and from 30 yards out is successful to edge the Giants to 12-18.

Salford then get a lucky break as Justin Carney knocks on a high bomb but receives the penalty to stop the Giants scoring. The Reds make good ground and Josh Jones gets the try and it's well deserved for Josh after another hard working display. O Brien is good with the conversion and it's all level again 18-18.

The Giants hit back as a lovely short pass from architect Brough to Eorl Crabtree and he spins out of the tackles to reach out to score, Brough kicks from under the posts and Huddesfield lead 18-24 with 18 minutes to play.

 On the next set of six another thrilling Giants break after good work from Ellis sees them scorch 60 meters up the pitch with Joe Wardle finishing the move off, Brough kicks the goal and its 18-30 Huddesfield. 

It then gets worse for Salford as Justin Carney gets sin binned for a professional foul and with ten minutes left Danny Brough wisely drops a goal to edge Huddesfield further ahead 18-31.

The Reds hit back on the 74th minute great work again from the hard working Josh Jones who grabs his second try o Brien again kicks off the touch line 24-31.

Salford aren't finished yet as good quick hands sets Vidot up for his second try with three minutes left! O Brien faultless with the boot kicks again off the touch line. 30-31. 

It's set for a big finish but the Reds come up with a knock on as Huddersfield get a vital win. 

Another poor display from Salford who didn't deserve the win tonight. It's going to be tough to make the top 8 now with only 4 games remaining. There is now game next weekend due to the challenge cup. Next action is friday the first of July at home to Castleford. On a disappointing night it finished Salford 30 Huddersfield 31.

Big Match preview Salford v Huddesfield

Salford Red Devils take on the Huddesfield Giants on Friday night at the AJ Bell. Dan Robinson takes you through the potential match winners and stats for the game.

Battles

Battle 1

Lui V Brough

Rob Lui has been the main play maker for the Red Devils this season so far and can turn a game in an instant. Friday's game will be a good game for Lui to show the Home support how vital he is for the team.

We're all aware what Danny Brough can do for the Giants and with him in the side the Giants are going to looking to try and make the top 8. If the Red Devils can limit his actions in the game and keep him busy in defence then they have every chance of getting the double over the visitors.

Battle 2

Carney V Mcgillvary

The thing on the wing will look to try and out strength his rival this weekend. The top metre maker for the Reds and in super league has been a great strength in the side and has been missed when he has been out of the team. If the backs can get the ball to him im sure he will look to make the points count come Friday

With 14 try's to his name on 2016 Mcgillvary has been a light in a dark tunnel for the Giants this season. He also likes to come in from the wing and make some good ground up the middle as does Carney. This for me will be a great battle to watch and one that both players will be looking forward to.

Battle 3

Kopczak V Crabtree

2 ex teams mates come head to head for the second time this season. Kopczak has been a stand out for the home side in 2016 and has really lead from the front. His no nonsense runs and defence had been the reason why the Devils have won the battle upfront in most home games this season. Hopefully he can get one over again on his former employers.

Crabtree is a big powerful front rower and brings a whole new meaning to a Giant from Huddersfield. For me this seasons he hasn't been as good for the visitors then he has been in recent seasons and hasn't reached his potential and capabilities in 2016. Hopefully the Reds big pack with the likes of Masilla, Kopczak and Hauraki can all be a Jack the giant slayer at the AJ Bell on Friday.

stats

Defence will be key area for Salford on Friday, George Griffin has been outstanding in defence this season and with Logan Tomkins and Craig Kopczak the fans are hoping for another solid performance from the team.

Salford have lots of try scorers in the team, Top try scorer Junior Sau will be looking to add to his total this season and with Nial Evalds and Justin Carney Salford have plenty of tries in their team.

Justin Carney is a dangerous try scorer but also a great metre maker for Salford, with Junior Sau and Josh Jones making big metres go forward will be important

Huddesfield

Jamaine McGuillary is Huddesfields top try scorer and will be a danger to Salford.

Michael Lawrence is Huddesfields main defensive unit, Salford will need to work him hard

Huddesfield have players who can make good go forward and will need to be policed on Friday

Salford v Huddersfield form guide. 

In super era played 35 with 17 wins each.

Last 4 home games

2012 lost 20-30

2013 won 21-20

2014 lost 22-42

2015 lost 0-19

19 Man Squad to face @Giantsrl JakeBibby Justin Carney Michael Dobson  Mark Flanagan George Griffin Wella Hauraki  Josh Jones Phil Joseph Craig Kopczak Oli Krasniqi Ryan Lannon  Rob Lui Ben Murdoch Murdoch

 Gaz O’Brien  Junior S'au Logan Tomkins Daniel Vidot Jordan Walne Ryan Williams - There you have this week's 19.

Huddesfield 19

Scott Grix, Jemaine Mcgillvary, Leroy Cudjoe, Joe Wardle, Danny Brough, Jamie Ellis, Eorl Crabtree, Tom Symonds, Michael Lawrence, Kyle wood, Sam Rapira, Ukuma Tai, Jake Connor, Josh Johnson, Kruise leeming, Nathan Mason, Oliver Roberts, Tyler Dickinson, Ryan Brierley

Match report Leeds Rhinos 8 Salford Red Devils 0

Salford suffered defeat against Leeds Rhinos at a Soggy Headingley  Paul Whiteside takes you though the action in a frustrating night for Salford and us fans.

Salford travelled to Leeds in good spirits after last weeks great effort looking for a first league double over Leeds since 1946. The Rhinos were very low on confidence and looked a shadow of the Grand Final winning side of last year! It was a nervous opening with Danny McGuire kicking the ball out on the full at the end of the first set. The pitch was in excellent condition but the rain  started and the pitch got slippy and the ball was fizzing around from kicks.  After 5 minutes Leeds attack from a penalty a last tackle kick form McGuire out wide it's palmed on to Luke Briscoe who scores the games opening try. Liam sutcliffe misses the kick 4-0.

From the kick off Salford pressure Leeds with some good defence and the Rhinos come up with the error. Michael Dobson puts a lovely slide rule kick through but Jake Bibby just can't ground the ball and its agonisingly close for the Salford support at the scoreboard end of the ground. The error count started to mount as the rain got worse! Rob burrow makes a break and rips through the heart of the Salford defence but his pass is poor and ends up in touch. Both sides force drop outs and repeat sets. A very tight first half ends 4-0.

It's not the best start to the second half as Salford knock on first set of six. Leeds though are not the fluent attacking force they were and fail to make it count. Michael Dobson comes up with a 40/20 kick and the reds have a great opportunity to post points. Yet again they come up with the error. 52 minutes gone and Liam sutcliffe kicks a penalty to edge Leeds to 6-0. Gareth o Brien good under the high ball fields a kick but the decides to throw a suicide pass in front of his own posts, Daniel visot some how manages to clean up the mess but concedes a drop out. 15 minutes remaining and Leeds are penalised deep in there own half for obstruction giving Salford a golden opportunity to attack.

Yet again Salford come up with a knock on. The chances keep coming as Leeds errors start to mount! Salford just can't get that try they desperately need. Gareth o Brien attempts a 40/20 but the ball sails out on the full. As the clock counts down Leeds are awarded a penalty and Sutcliffe kicks the goal as the hooter sounds. 8-0.

A very disappointing night for Salford as the headingly hoodoo continues. Leeds kept handing Salford opportunities through their mistakes but the chances were wasted. The Rhinos defended well tonight and were very difficult to break down. Salford however had the effort but sometimes a little bit more quality was needed and that was lacking tonight.   Leeds ended a 7 match losing run as once again Salford were the fall guys. Huddersfield visit the AJ Bell stadium next Friday were hopefully we can put things right. From a very wet headingly it finished Leeds 8 Salford 0