Lam tips Hastings to battle
ADRIAN LAM is not expecting any favours from 2020 recruit Jackson Hastings when he takes Salford to Wigan on Friday.
The Aussie scrum-half, 23, is among the front runners for the Steve Prescott Man of Steel after a stellar season which has helped steer the Red Devils into the play-offs.
Next year he will join his ex-Sydney Roosters junior coach Lam at the Warriors as a marquee player.
The pair are in touch several times a week but the friendship will count for nothing this weekend.
Lam said: “I’ve known Jackson for a long time and he’s close mates with my oldest son Lachlan. I text him three or four times a week and there has been a bit of cheekiness going backwards and forwards.
“He understands his position at Salford, he’s enjoyed his time there, loves the fans and doesn’t want to let them down. He’ll certainly be leading the way.
“He’s been outstanding this year, he steadies the ship for them and pops up all over the field. We need to prepare well for him and nullify his options.
“He’s going to be an asset for us next year and we just need to make sure we don’t allow him to be a thorn in our side this year.”
The clash, which sees the winners then face St Helens for a place in the Grand Final and the losers get a second chance, pits Super League’s two in-form teams together.
Salford have won their last eight and Wigan seven and Lam added: “I’m very happy with the back half of the season.
“I can see a hunger there in the group, they’re all playing for each other. There’s some experienced players there leading the way which is a great sign.
“Salford are one of the in-form teams as well.
“It’s a handful for us and a difficult one to prepare for because they’ve got nothing to lose and they’ve got that mentality.
“Some of their stats regarding individual players and the team are among the best in the competition.
“We respect them, know they’ve earned the right to be there and it’s going to be a tough game.”