Rugby League: Salford Red Devils 23 - 10 Huddersfield Giants
First signs of positivity for Salford in the Super League
Salford Red Devils achieved their first victory of the Betfred Super League season by defeating Huddersfield Giants.
Both teams entered the match eager to secure important points, with the Red Devils looking to build on their recent Challenge Cup success against Bradford Bulls the previous week.
Jayden Nikorima delivered an outstanding individual performance, but there were many other players across the team deserving of the Man of the Match recognition.
A closer look at what happened
Huddersfield would have fancied their chances against a struggling Salford side, but almost nothing went to plan from the moment they conceded an early penalty. The hosts seized control immediately, and in the sixth minute, former Huddersfield centre Marsters weaved his way through to open the scoring.
The Giants pressed for a quick response, but Salford stood firm before striking again at the other end. Chris Hill’s smart offload released Wilson, who darted over, with Ryan Brierley adding the extras.
Huddersfield’s frustration was palpable as passes went astray and attacking moves broke down, and by the half-hour mark, Salford had their third try. Slick handling down the right saw Nikorima and Marsters combine to send Ethan Ryan clear, and he timed his pass perfectly for Nikorima to race in unopposed.
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Brierley’s conversion stretched the lead to 16-0, and that scoreline remained intact at half-time. The home fans were delighted with what they had seen so far. Could they hold on for an important win?
The visitors thought they had pulled one back nine minutes into the second half when Tui Lolohea’s high kick was collected by Sam Halsall, but after a lengthy review, both the on-field and video referees ruled that Chris Atkin had prevented the ball from being grounded.
Salford’s pace and creativity continued to dictate proceedings, and Nikorima’s second was a moment of individual brilliance. Spotting a gap in the Huddersfield defence, he surged through to touch down in front of the jubilant home fans. Brierley made no mistake with his third kick of the night, effectively ending the contest.
Huddersfield did manage a late rally, with Adam Swift crossing in the corner with 12 minutes remaining. Brierley responded with a drop goal before Lolohea grabbed a consolation try for the visitors, but it was too little, too late.
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