Salford continue their impressive form with a fifth straight Super League win as they strengthen their playoff credentials.
MATCH DETAILS
Salford struck first in a tough first half away at the KCOM. The lead swung on numerous occasions, however the sides took to the changing rooms at half-time with the score level.
The Red Devils started the second half strong with two tries in the opening ten minutes through Jake Bibby and Lee Mossop.
Hull thought they maybe able to narrow the gap, however the comeback was short lived as the Red Devils ran in a further three scores.
Ian Watson’s side came into it looking to win a fifth successive match and three minutes into the contest Ken Sio made it a realistic prospect. The ball was spread to the right and Sio ran over Sneyd to open the scoring.
Hull took the lead as props Scott Taylor and Mickey Paea crashed over the Salford line. Their lead was extended when Burerta Faraimo crossed after a sweeping move by Hull created space on their left edge. The Black and Whites led 16-6 after 21 minutes played.
Salford struck back in similar fashion to Paea’s try. Logan Tomkins produced a short pass to Lee Mossop who powered over the line. Sio’s second try of the afternoon put the side level at the interval.
The Greater Manchester side regained the lead when Jake Bibby struck just after half time.
Mossop crashed over underneath the sticks for his second of the afternoon and it looked as if Salford had nearly sealed the game,
Hull struck back through Jordan Lane to give hope to the home fans, however two tries from Krisnan Inu and a try from Jackson Hastings secured an impressive away victory for Ian Watson’s side.
FOUR POINTERS
Salford to Make Playoffs
The victory puts Salford in a good position to qualify for the playoffs. The Red Devils are only two points behind second place with three games remaining, however they would be more than happy to secure their fifth spot.
Hit and Miss Hull
Hull continue in their mixed season. Against a good Salford side, they struggled and with only three matches before the playoffs starts, it will be a slight concern to Lee Radford.
Tough Next Match
Salford face Warrington Wolves at the AJ Bell the week after the cup final. This could be very beneficial as it is a chance to close the gap and especially if Warrington face a cup hangover. The fact the fixture is held on a Thursday could play to Salford’s advantage.
Race for the Top Five
Hull, Wigan and Warrington all sit on 30 points which could make the final matches difficult. The sides will want to finish in second or third as this will be more beneficial. In the first round of the playoffs, the side in second play the side in third, however the loser will have another chance to go through. An interesting end to the season.
THE RESULT
Hull FC 22
Tries: Taylor, Paea, Faraimo, Lane
Goals: Sneyd 3
Salford Red Devils 44
Tries: Sio 2, Mossop 2, Bibby, Inu 2, Hastings
Goals: Inu 6
SQUADS
Hull FC: Shaul; Naulago, Tuimavave, Griffin, Faraimo; Connor, Sneyd; Taylor, Houghton, Paea, Lane, Westerman, Ellis
Interchanges: Bowden, Buchanan, Fash, Satae
Salford Red Devils: Evalds; Sio, Welham, Bibby, Inu; Lolohea, Hastings; Mossop, Tomkins, Walker, Jones, Lannon, Burke
Interchanges: Flanagan, Lussick, J Johnson, Nakubuwai
