Salford Red Devils’ Alex Davidson believes the club have some exciting young talent coming through the ranks, including 19-year-old Jack Stevens, whose performance in a spirited 30-14 defeat to Warrington Wolves was a particular highlight.
Before a mouth-watering Betfred Super League opener against Castleford Tigers next week, Paul Rowley’s side took on the Wire in their final pre-season fixture.
The game on Friday was all about celebrating the fantastic career of Lee Mossop, with the Red Devils’ mixture of youth and experience producing a brave display despite defeat on opposition territory.
A former Red Devils first-teamer between 2011 and 2013, Davidson previously made three Betfred Super League appearances for Salford.
Davidson – who alongside playing, has taken up a coaching and mentoring role within the reserves – has said it’s great to see so many talented youngsters given their chance in such a hostile environment.
Speaking after the game, Davidson explained: “It’s great to see! Jack’s had some great exposure with the first-team so he’s getting more and more comfortable at the age of 19 – that’s phenomenal.
“But there’s some other good kids in there, Daniel Spencer-Tonks pulled on the shirt for the first time today, running like an absolute bull.
“And then you’ve got some great lads that haven’t shown what they can do fully tonight and that’ll only grow as the season goes on. We also had the finish from Joe Brady over in the corner and that’s the talent we’ve got coming through.”
Jack Stevens has been training in periods with the first-team squad for over a year now, and looked seriously composed during his first 80 minutes in a red shirt.
Also speaking after Friday’s game, Stevens was quick to thank his teammates for how easy they’ve made his transition into senior action.
Stevens said: “The boys are amazing with me and make everything easier for me and help me on and off the pitch.
“We put the work in, on and off the pitch. We do what we can to make it easier for next week, the next game.”
After a largely successful pre-season, Rowley and his squad will turn their attentions to next Friday – the return of the Betfred Super League.
Grab your tickets now for our Round 1 clash with Castleford Tigers on Friday 11th February at the Mend-A-Hose Jungle, kick-off 8pm.
Written by: Harry Siddall
Image credit: Steve McCormick
