Castleford took a massive step towards the top six with a gutsy win in the wet against Salford. It was a brilliant end to end contest and the Tigers showed the resilience and defensive strength of a play-off side.
Major Talking Points:
1. Ambitious Salford
The Red Devil’s don’t have anything to play for but watching today’s game you wouldn’t have known. They played the game at pace and kept the ball alive. I was shocked to see Kevin Brown start at 13 but it was a sign of intent. They kept the ball alive even when it rained and really challenged the Tigers.
2. McShane misery
Paul McShane was the difference in the first half. He devastated Salford on the back of quick play the balls scoring and creating a try. Things got much more difficult in the second half when he did not reappear and Cas struggled to control the game in his absence.
3. Defence key
Salford had the chances to win the game in the second half but superb defence from the Tigers saw them hold on forcing the opposition into touch on multiple occasions.
Player Ratings:
Castleford
1 Niall Evalds – 7
2 Derrell Olpherts – 7
12 Cheyse Blair – 6
4 Michael Shenton – 6
23 James Clare – 6
3 Peter Mata’utia – 9
25 Jordan Turner – 7
15 George Griffin – 7
12 Jesse Sene-Lefao – 8
14 Nathan Massey – 7
Substitutes
13 Adam Milner – 7
17 Alex Foster – 6
19 Tyla Hepi – 6
24 Suaia Matagi – 6
Salford
1 Morgan Escare – 7
2 Ken Sio – 7
4 Krisnan Inu – 6
23 Dan Sarginson – 8
5 Joe Burgess – 6
6 Tui Lolohea – 8
33 Ata Hingano – 7
17 Josh Johnson – 6
18 Chris Atkin – 6
16 Greg Burke – 6
15 Oliver Roberts – 6
35 Ellis Robson – 7
7 Kevin Brown – 7
Substitutes
27 Sam Luckley – 6
24 Matty Costello – 6
11 Ryan Lannon – 7
14 Danny Addy – 6
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