Tim Lafai has insisted his team are focussing on themselves ahead of our crunch meeting with Leeds Rhinos this afternoon.
The Reds know a win against the eight-time Super League champions would open up a six-point gap between themselves and seventh, but the Samoan has refused to drag himself into any of that talk pre-match.
Lafai was back in the starting thirteen for the first time in over six weeks against Castleford Tigers last time out and reminded everyone of his importance with a classy display.
One of the most feared centre’s in the Super League, Lafai was the top offloader last season and currently sits third across this year’s competition for tackle breaks (126).
Speaking exclusively to our YouTube channel, the Samoan says he and his teammates are focussing on nailing their defensive game ahead of Round 20.
“We’re just focussing on us,” he began, “Getting a few things right in our defence, especially on the edges. We know what they’ll going to bring, they’ve got a new coach, they’ve been playing well the past few weeks.
“Having Brodie (Croft) and (Andy) Ackers back at the stadium, they’re going to come out firing, so we’re just focusing on our defence and competing for the 80 minutes.”
Two familiar faces to supporters at the Salford Community Stadium. Andy Ackers was a stellar hooker for several years for the Reds, while Brodie Croft turned his career around to win the Steve Prescott MBE Man of Steel in 2022.
“His running game is definitely dangerous, so we know what we expect, but just the whole squad too,” Lafai continued when referencing Croft’s strengths.
“They’re all a threat across the field, so it’s not just the one player we’ve got to look out for, it’s the thirteen players across the field, so we’ve all got to do our job.”
Losing just two games at home all season – both at the hands of Wigan Warriors – the Reds have made the Salford Community Stadium a fortress across 2024.
With just three games remaining in front of the home Salford faithful, Lafai has given a rallying call to our supporters to be the difference in such a big fixture.
“Highly important. I feel they’re going to make a difference to us going into the playoffs. All the fans out there, make sure you come down to the stadium and bring the boys home – we’re going to need you!”
Watch our full chat with Lafai by clicking below – make sure to subscribe!
