Saturday’s Man of the Match, Ollie Partington says the team are showing positive signs as the race for playoff rugby intensifies.
Our number 13 was outstanding in both attack and defensive, completing 36 tackles and making 154 metres across his 73-minute stint.
He also scored an important try, at a crucial point in the game to extend Salford’s lead. Timing a charge forward to absolute perfection, Partington crashed onto a short ball from Marc Sneyd to power through a gap.
The loose-forward took a few big hits throughout what was a highly-physical contest with Castleford Tigers – sporting a big white bandage during the second period.
In fact, the seven minutes of action he missed was only because he was forced off for a HIA.
“It was really tough,” Partington told Sky Sports after picking up his MOTM medal, “I think they showed that they’re back to their best in periods of the game and I think we showed we were back to our best in periods of the game.
“It’s definitely a step in the right direction for us after two tough loses.”
Before Catalans’ tight win over Hull FC on the same day, the Red Devils had moved into the top four for a brief period of time.
“It’s a massive achievement for us at this point in the season,” he continued.
“We’re just trying to go about our business quietly and keep getting better each week. We’ve got a good team here and we’re quietly confident that we can win these big games, because this was a big game for us and we’re happy to get the two points.
“I think everyone is turning it on now. If you watch the games over the week so far it has definitely gone up a notch. We had to get the win this week and keep pushing forward.”
Finishing by reflecting on his third try of the season, Partington joked: “Buzzing with that one; I don’t get them often – so I’m grateful!”
All eyes will now be on this Saturday, where Leeds Rhinos, four points behind the Reds in seventh, come to town for a mouthwatering clash.
