St Helens to clash with Super League rivals in pre-season friendly

Salford Red Devils will face St Helens at the Totally Wicked Stadium on February 4th 2024 at 2pm for a pre-season friendly.

The game will give fans an opportunity to watch some of the new faces that have joined the club, as Paul Rowley’s Red Devils prepare for the 2024 campaign.

It will be a real test for Salford and a signifier of where the Red Devils are ahead of the new season as they take on one of the favourites.

This could be an opportunity for the Red Devils to give a debut to Joe Mellor after his move was confirmed.

The 33-year-old is a natural halfback, but spent the majority of time at hooker during his spell with Leigh Leopards. His experience on the big stage will undoubtedly be a huge asset for younger players like Amir Bourouh.

Mellor made 26 appearances for the Betfred Challenge Cup winners last season, but he still feels like there is still a lot to come from him as a player.

“I feel like I’ve got a lot to give still,” he exclusively told the club’s official YouTube channel.

“I’m getting older, I know that, but I feel like I’m fit, I’m fast, I’m strong and I know what I’m capable of – so hopefully I can fit into this team nicely.”

Mellor arrives at the Salford Stadium with a huge amount of experience.

When asked whether it’s something he can pass on to our current squad, Mellor said: “Yeah, definitely. I think this is an older squad and so was that Leigh one.

“But last year was great, I achieved a lot and if I could do something like that this year at Salford then I think everyone will be happy.”

Reflecting on Salford’s 2023 season, Mellor goes on to say, from afar, he felt the side were unlucky to not reach the playoffs after some outstanding performances across the campaign.

“I think last year they were so unlucky to miss out in them last couple of games.

“The good thing about Salford is that every time you watch them, you’ve got to be on because they do play different and I think that can spook other teams, and I think the way they play, the way they move the ball – it’s exciting.”