Salford Red Devils star Ryan Brierley proud of effort despite “adversity” and looks ahead to 2023

When Ryan Brierley scored under the sticks for Salford at the Totally Wicked Stadium, there was real belief that the try could lead them to victory with just one-point in the game.

His try came as the game began to open up and the Red Devils attacked down their potent left edge with Joe Burgess breaking before teeing up Brierley for Salford’s second try which had seen them battle back from 12-0 down to being just 13-12 behind deep into the second half.

It was Brierley’s second try after a decisive score at Huddersfield a week earlier and had Salford fans dreaming of a return to Old Trafford but the luck just wasn’t with them as the Champions’ outstanding defence stood firm as it often does whilst some key moments didn’t go their way such as the loss of Andy Ackers to a HIA early on and a penalty try denied although it has to be said that the right decision was made in this case in the letter of the law with sufficient doubt over whether Tim Lafai was going to get to the ball.

Saints deservedly march on to a fourth consecutive Grand Final, but Salford can be proud of their campaign and Brierley has now taken to Instagram to reflect on it.

He noted the heart-breaking defeat as well as the adversity within the game whilst referencing how he and his teammates fought to the bitter end: “Heart-breaking to end the way it did, devastated, so much adversity to go through and was still fighting till the end.

“The fans were outstanding, the noise was incredible. Love these boys to pieces, so proud to be apart of this season and has been the best in my career.”

He’s also excited to see what Salford can do in 2023 especially with Paul Rowley confirmed as staying at the club next year: “We have a special group and can’t wait to see what the future holds for us.”