Watson: We’ve handled things better than anyone

Salford head coach Ian Watson hailed his group of players for their effort and professionalism throughout the 2020 campaign.

The Red Devils have featured in six matches since the start of October, recording as little as two positive cases during that time, allowing them to play the majority of their scheduled fixtures.

Speaking after his team’s 28-20 victory over Wakefield in their final game of the season, Watson praised the discipline and attitude of everyone at the club.

He said: “I am the type that always wants to win something but I am really positive about this group.

“I cannot pay them enough credit. The way they have gone about things. They have been the best club in terms of off-field by not getting many situations there.

“They have really bought into being together as a team and as a club. Then on the field, they have bought into what we have asked of them.

“We had a little bit of a tricky start but we knew we was going to get that with a new team.

“We just needed to get our processes right and they have kind of come through the other side.”

The win over Trinity was Salford’s third success in four matches, rounding off a good end to the season that also saw Watson commit himself to the club.

Despite the positivity at the AJ Bell Stadium, the Red Devils boss did admit that their Challenge Cup final defeat was still playing on his mind.

He added: “They have probably shown at the back end, since lockdown, that they are a really good team but I am a little disappointed that we did not win at Wembley.

“You do not know when you are going to get those opportunities again.

“But I am proud of the group. The group of players are an absolute phenomenal bunch of people to be around.

“It is an honour having the pleasure to work with people like Kris Welham, Mark Flanagan and some of the other guys in there.”