Huddersfield 30-18 Salford: Ian Watson celebrates new deal with Magic win

Josh McAllister 10 Jul 2022 2:53 PM

Huddersfield Giants head coach Ian Watson celebrated his new long-term deal with a 30-18 victory over Salford at St James’ Park.

The Red Devils threatened a comeback in the second half, just like one they completed at Warrington the week prior. However, a second try from Jermaine McGillvary on the 63rd minute cemented Huddersfield’s win at Magic Weekend.

Match report

Theo Fages returned for the Giants, while Josh Jones missed out and was replaced by Sam Hewitt. Will Pryce dropped out.

Salford welcomed back captain Elijah Taylor on the bench from his one-match suspension. He replaced Matty Costello from last week’s victory.

Toby King opened the scoring with his first try for the Giants just four minutes into the clash. The centre collected a high kick from half-back Fages to score in the corner.

Poor defence from the Red Devils allowed Huddersfield to score their next just six minutes later. Owen Trout crashed through a couple of lazy defenders to extend their lead to 12-0. Oliver Russell converting both tries.

One-time England international Chris McQueen crossed for his 12th try of the season on 26 minutes, giving his side an 18-point advantage.

Paul Rowley’s side eventually hit back on 33 minutes through centre Deon Cross, who is enjoying a fine debut season in Super League.

However, Huddersfield regained their 18-point advantage in the final 60 seconds, with winger McGillvary scoring in the corner from a scrum play.

HT: Huddersfield 18-6 Salford

Salford’s Brodie Croft was first to score in the second half on 47 minutes. Another player enjoying a fine debut season in Super League, he supported a break and ran around Tui Lolohea to cross in front of the travelling Salford supporters.

Just like last week at Warrington, Salford threatened a comeback with their second try just four minutes later. This time, Scotland international and Newcastle fan Sam Luckley crossing for his first try of the season.

McGillvary eased some nerves for the Giants on 63 minutes, scoring for his second try of the game in the corner. Ashton Golding and Fages both saw their tries disallowed by the video referee, but their side did enough to claim the win on the opening game of day two.