Catalans claim Salford scalp

Catalans have carved out their seventh consecutive Super League victory with a tough battle against Salford in Perpignan.

The Dragons go to equal top of the competition, with Warrington and Wigan, after a high-scoring 42-32 win over the Red Devils.

Niall Evalds opened the scoring before Pat Richards quickly hit back for Catalans.

Jodie Broughton was the next to cross, before Justin Carney got on the scoresheet for Salford.

Then Junior Sa’u touched down in the corner to give the visitors a 10-14 lead. But Broughton got his second and the home team went into half-time 16-14 in front.

The tit for tat scoring continued unto the second half. Sa’u got his second try but then Richie Myler touched down to put the Dragons back in front again.

The Catalans looked to have the game sewn up with two more tries, Myler grabbing his double off a Dave Taylor offload.

But Salford wouldn’t lie down and Sa’u notched his hat-trick and then Evalds also crossed, scoring his second of the afternoon.

At 34-32 the Red Devils kept coming, and a dramatic away win was in sight, but then Richards got his double in the 74th minute to take the score to 40-32.

A Richards penalty with just two minutes left wrapped the match up at 42-32.

Salford were impressive but will rue their indiscipline and poor goal-kicking, which proved costly.

Catalans will be happy with the result but concerned about a knee injury to Krisnan Inu.