RED ALERT Maloney-inspired Dragons make it hell for Devils

Catalans 30 Salford

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SALFORD suffered defeat in Perpignan despite a brave effort against Catalans Dragons.

Ian Watson’s (right) Red Devils went through hell as the fiery Dragons put in a no-nonsense first-half performance.

This time last year, Salford scored a 46-0 win but revenge was sweet as James Maloney inspired a performance that boots Dragons hopes of being in the top-five mix this season.

Watson said: “We didn’t build enough pressure in the first half and we made too many errors.” Predictions of a Dragons rout were mis-placed as Salford stuck to their script with Kevin Brown, Tui Lolohea and Ken Sio providing a threat.

Michael McIlorum opened the scoring with a short-range try, Maloney adding the conversion.

He then put the Dragons further ahead when Salford prop Gil Dudson was penalised, then Matt Whitley chipped over the defence to touch down in the left corner.

Whitley doubled up, collecting a Maloney kick over the line for his second try after 30 minutes, another Maloney conversion making it 18-0.

Salford hit back early in the second half with a dazzling solo run from full-back Niall Evalds who stepped around Sam Tomkins.

And Sio gave the visitors hope with a clever touchdown. But Catalans countered, forcing Salford into a series of goalline dropouts before Salford were penalised for a high tackle on Tomkins, Maloney taking the two points to make it 20-10 with 20 minutes left.

Salford raised hopes by taking advantage of Tomkins’ fumble for Sio to add his second try.

Lewis Tierney struck the killer blow for Catalans with a dazzling midfield dash resulting in a try for Fouad Yaha.

Then he got his own, Maloney converting.

Dragons coach Steve McNamara said: “I was pleased with the win.

“We had a solid first half, but I’m still not happy with how we are defending.”