Salford Red Devils boss criticises players: “There are some warnings on the horizon”

Salford Red Devils boss Paul Rowley is finding life difficult currently, and it doesn’t look like it’s going to get any easier for his side just yet.

Following his side’s 72-10 defeat against Wakefield Trinity, Rowley spoke to Sky Sports to reflect on yet another heavy loss.

Whilst there is still plenty of effort from his players, there is still so much turmoil both on and off the field.

However, he wanted to compliment Wakefield on a stellar performance at home.

He said: “It was difficult for us. Two years ago, we dished up something similar against Wakefield at home with a record score, but they got their own back on us today.

“I thought they were excellent, but I can’t dress it up. Most weeks, I’ve been able to say we’ve had a dig, but today, it’s really disappointing across the board in all areas, so it’s been a difficult day.”

Rowley admitted that it’s hard to keep the motivation going, but most across the club are just trying to do their best every day.

He added: “The evidence of today looked like we didn’t keep the motivation going there.

“I think there were individuals there who stood up, and there were some who didn’t.

“I never want to be too publicly critical of the side because of the circumstances that we’ve been in all year.

“However, it very much looked like men against boys. This game’s quite simple. If you’re not prepared to bend your back and muscle in defensively, then you’re in a bit of trouble, aren’t you?

Salford Red Devils boss praises Wakefield’s journey but criticises some of his players

He stated that he hoped his Salford side could use Wakefield as motivation, considering their relegation from Super League in recent years and then promotion again.

The club has been transformed, from the side on the pitch to the stadium that they play in.

Rowley said: “I’m pleased for them and the good people here at this club that they’ve turned it around over the last couple of years, and they’re in the position that they’re in.

“I guess when you talk about motivation for us, as a coach, as players, and as supporters as well, maybe we can look at Wakefield and say ‘they’ve done a tremendous job and it’s something we can hopefully emulate’ and turn it around quick and be in the position that they are right now.”

It doesn’t get any easier for Salford Red Devils as they next face Wigan Warriors and St Helens.

Head coach Rowley said he’ll have to be honest with some players about their effort and have some harsh conversations.

He finished: “There are a lot of warning shots and a lot of messages we can give there.

“There are plenty of examples that I’ll be able to show from today, but on short turnarounds, I don’t think hammering players tomorrow and showing them all the failures will be the best course of action in readiness for a game against Wigan.

“We’ve got to have honest conversations, and there are some warnings on the horizon.”

Full-time. pic.twitter.com/Lx7RB6Y96j

— Salford Red Devils 👹 (@SalfordDevils) May 25, 2025