Paul Rowley Salford Red Devils Rowley

Salford Red Devils coach Paul Rowley praised his side’s determination and endeavour as they recorded back-to-back victories defeating previously unbeaten Hull KR 17-10.

Deon Cross and Chris Hankinson both scored tries for the home side, but the kicking of Marc Sneyd was the difference between the sides on the day. Salford’s scrum-half slotted over conversions four from four attempts and scored a late drop goal.

Despite a valiant effort from the visitors who fought back from 16-0 down, Salford ran out worthy winners on the day.

Rowley commended his team’s application in defence, he said: “We looked dominant defensively, forcing some uncharacteristic errors out of Hull KR. When your group has a personality and character like ours, you can do some pretty good things.

He highlighted that the player’s efforts in training have paid off: “We practised well, and we had a really good week. We had a fair bit of belief in us going to the game, and the players followed the plan brilliantly.”

Salford Red Devils Rowley
Paul Rowley, photo credit: Steve McCormick

Star-man Sneyd received special praise from the Salford Boss.

“I thought we had the best player on the field in Marc Sneyd, who was probably ultimately the difference,” said Rowley.

“At times, he looked like a kid playing on the backfield. The lad likes rugby and enjoys himself – that’s why he doesn’t feel pressure.”

Salford’s suffered a pre-game setback when full-back Ryan Brierley suffered a groin injury before kick-off, his replacement Chris Atkin impressed after being brought into the starting line-up.

Rowley said: “We had to make the change as we were walking out – it wasn’t an injury lingering over us; it just happened. Chris Atkin was brilliant, especially his positioning under kicks in the first half. During pre-season, he filled in all those roles in training, and he’s invaluable to us.”

Salford Red Devils inflicted Hull KR’s first league defeat of the season; Rowley side will be looking to build upon this impressive result as they travel to St Helens on Friday Night (Kick-off is at 8pm).

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *