Another super show from Hastings leaves Salford almost safe
SALFORD made it two wins from two in the Qualifiers and took a big step towards safety with a 32-6 win over Widnes on Saturday. Here’s what we learned from the match:
NO HALF MEASURES Since Jackson Hastings arrived at the club last month, he has featured in three matches - all victories - and has been named man of the match in all three, despite being on the field for just 18 minutes of his debut against Leeds.
The former Sydney Roosters half-back put in another superb performance against Widnes, but his greatest contribution may well be how much he has freed up Rob Lui. Since the departure of Michael Dobson at the end of last season, Lui has been burdened with the majority of the creative responsibility in the Red Devils attack, but looks much more comfortable alongside Hastings and produced one of his greatest showings in a Salford shirt against the Vikings.
OPTIONS IN ATTACK Another new arrival, hooker Joey Lussick, made his home debut – and quickly found himself on the wrong side of referee Ben Thaler, getting sin-binned inside the first half.
But with Kriss Brining and Logan Tomkins out injured, Lussick’s arrival means that young Josh Wood is no longer required to play the full 80 minutes at number nine.
Add in the fact that Niall Evalds has returned from injury - and seemingly suffered no long-term ill effects from his broken leg and Ian Watson suddenly has numerous options going forward. This was evidenced by the fact that when Lui was withdrawn with 10 minutes remaining, Wood slotted straight into the halves and there was no lack of attacking proficiency.
THREE IN A ROW The Red Devils are now two from two in the Qualifiers and with two Championship sides up next, will fancy their chances of securing their Betfred Super League safety at the earliest opportunity.
Four wins and a good points difference is usually enough at this stage of the competition, but with Leeds the only Super League side left to play.
STRENGTH IN DEPTH Craig Kopczak and Greg Burke returned from injuries against Widnes, while Tyrone McCarthy missed out with a slight knock, but is expected to be fit to face Halifax in a fortnight’s time.
For such a well-publicised small squad, the Red Devils now have plenty of options in the forwards.
George Griffin and Luke Burgess are expected to be back soon, while Jansin Turgut is yet to make his debut for the club since joining from Hull FC.