Watson worried by Salford’s slump

Salford head coach Ian Watson admitted he is concerned by Salford’s recent dip in form.

Friday’s 25-0 defeat at Leigh was the Red Devils’ fourth loss in five games and Watson says his players are not performing to the level he expects, and would have better luck on the slot sites.

“People will lose their shirt on that performance today – it was disappointing,” said Watson. “The first half we were way below the standards we have set ourselves physically.

“Leigh were dominant – their pack was on the front foot and their half-backs were able to control the game on the back of that.

“Our performances have dipped and there’s been a drop in intensity since we secured a top-eight finish.

“What we need to do now is realise what we were doing before and rediscover the hunger and attitude we showed earlier in the season which was winning us games.

“For Leigh to score 18 points in that first half in those conditions put them on the front foot.”