In a fixture that evokes memories of one of the biggest cup shocks in history when Salford ended Wigan’s near decade long unbeaten run in the competition in 1996, Salford will be looking to maintain the momentum they generated in a fantastic win over Leeds last week.
The Red Devils downed the Rhinos 26-12 with a late blitz of tries demonstrating the attacking potential in their side having shown smarts and guts to keep in the game till that point. They’ll need more of that tomorrow as they take on Matt Peet’s high flying Wigan.
The Warriors have only lost once so far this season and will definitely fancy their chances of going far in the cup this year but a superb Salford side stand in their way at the very first hurdle.
Teams News:
Wigan’s 21-man squad remains unchanged after they beat Castleford Tigers last week. Peet has suggested that Jake Bibby will return in place of youngster Sam Halsall but has said that he won’t tinker with a comfortable side. The game comes too early for Bevan French and Iain Thornley. Brad Singleton and Kaide Ellis are still suspended.
As for Salford, they’ve lost vital duo Ken Sio and Shane Wright but James Greenwood and Matt Costello are welcome returns to the squad. Sio’s absence means we could see Rhys Williams figured who scored a superb try in the 2020 cup final. There may also be a return for former Warrington forward Sitaleki Akauola.
Match Preview – Key Battles:
Jai Field vs Ryan Brierley: Two fullbacks who can steal the show on the back of good performances will provide the centrepiece of this battle. Don’t be surprised to see them both on the scoresheet as they look to dismantle the opposition defence.
Cade Cust vs Brodie Croft: Likewise these two are very handy halves in their first seasons at their respective clubs having joined from the NRL. A first taste of cup action could see them raise their games even further after impressive starts to the season. The six who gets a foothold in this game quicker may very well help determine the outcome.
Patrick Mago vs King Vuniyayawa: Since arriving in Super League, Patrick Mago has been something of a super sub for Wigan even in the absence of suspended duo Brad Singleton and Kaide Ellis. His power and offloads can devastate any side. However, he’ll be up against a forward who enjoys bringing a similar impact off the bench in King Vuniyayawa who ran for an impressive 214 metres against his former club last week despite starting on the bench.
Where the game will be won and lost:
In many ways both these sides are two of the most exciting teams in Super League to watch. Even in the middle of the field in the shape of Mago and Vuniyayawa, they have players capable of exciting moments. Wigan, with the slightly bigger pack, will no doubt look to power down field pulling the Red Devils in before shifting to Jai Field and co where the pace and space could kill Salford. However, Paul Rowley’s men were able to contain Leeds well last week and showed great counterattacking ability. More of the same tomorrow could lead to a surprise win for the Red Devils.
Score Prediction: Wigan Warriors 28-18 Salford Red Devils
