Salford's penultimate game of the Super 8s was a trip to Headingley, where our record is one of the worst in rugby league. Our last three wins there came in 1959, 1977 and Easter Monday 2009, and many Salford hearts have been broken there over the years in countless cup competitions and league encounters. Last night was no exception.
After a confidence boosting demolition of Huddersfield Giants last Saturday, the Red Devils were looking to finish on a high. Leeds came in to the game after last week's defeat at Castleford, but, with two wins in the last three games, they sat safely in second place and couldn't finish any lower. As ever the Salford faithful arrived in hope.
The Red Devils bagged the first early points from Gareth O'Brien as he slotted over a penalty goal: 0-2. Salford had quite a lot of possession in the early stages but couldn't break down a resilient Leeds defence. The Rhinos then struck with back to back tries from Liam Sutcliffe and Danny McGuire to establish a 12-2 lead.
Just after the half hour mark Salford's best move of the match saw Jake Bibby over in the corner but the try was ruled out for a forward pass. Moments later Tom Briscoe raced round Junior Sau to touch down. Kallum Watkins failed to convert this time. Half time: 16-2.
For the first ten minutes of the second half, Salford again had the majority of possession and territory. Yet again, though, they failed to post any points, and when the Rhinos got their chance they took it; a simple run-around move that the classy Matt Parcell finished off. Watkins' goal was good: 22-2.
The game was over just before the hour mark with two quick fire tries, Adam Cuthbertson and Parcell going over: 32-2. Anthony Mullally and Brett Ferres scored back to back tries to round of a good night for the hosts and compile Salford's Headingley misery. Final score: Leeds 44 Salford 2.
Speaking to Ian Watson after the match he was disappointed with the result and knows his small squad are quite busted at this stage of the season. Recruitment is going to play a major part in the close season.
Ian was pleased with Niall Evalds' performance. The young full back was solid all night under the high ball and was Salford's biggest threat going forward. The Red Devil's will look to finish the season on a high next Thursday at home to top four outsiders St Helens.
Report by Paul Whiteside , Devil in The Detail.
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