Following a 50-12 pre-season victory over local rivals Swinton Lions we take a look at three talking points from the game
1. Impressive Debutants
Yesterday’s game saw a handful of Red Devils wear the Salford shirt for the first time with Levy Nzoungou, Gavin Bennion, Ben Nakubuwai, Jack Littlejohn and Derrell Olpherts all debuted for Salford.
Australian half-back Jack Littlejohn was named as the press’ Man of the Match before also winning the Twitter Man of the Match poll after a fantastic opening performance. Levy Nzoungou and Ben Nakubuwai displayed their power in the forwards making yards with every carry.
Both Derrell Olpherts and Gavin Bennion found themselves on the scoresheet with the former Newcastle Thunder centre finishing off two flowing moves before Bennion powered over in the closing stages.
I’m sure all the Red Devils fans are looking to see more of the new additions.
2. Young guns on show
This pre-season friendly was the perfect opportunity for Ian Watson to try out all his players and youngsters Josh Wood, Jake Bibby and Daniel Murray all got a runout.
Josh Wood was one of the standout performers for the Red Devils breaking the Swinton line on multiple occasions with his quick jump from acting half-back.
Jake Bibby became a regular starter at the backend of the 2017 season and it’s clear to see why with another solid performance in the back line. Daniel Murray made an impact of the bench and will be a real contender for a starting position in the forwards this season.
3. Rugby in the local area
If there’s one thing to take from the yesterday’s game it’s that there is definitely an appetite for Rugby League in the local area with both Salford and Swinton putting on a great showing on the field with the fans turning up in numbers.
Both clubs are entering new eras and it will be exciting to see how both sides progress both on and off the field throughout 2018 and onwards.
