Salford 16-18 Catalans

Casey McGuire’s last-minute try gave Les Catalans Dragons a narrow win over Salford City Reds at The Willows.

The Reds had led 14-0 at the interval, and held a 16-14 lead after a second-half comeback from their opponents.

However, McGuire’s touch down gave the Dragons a win at a ground at whichthey had never before scored a point.

Salford opened the scoring after ten minutes, Craig Stapleton finding space in the Dragons’ defence and looking for support before charging over the line himself, Stefan Ratchford converting.

The visitors could not hit back and the Reds’ lead was extended: Ratchford’s well-placed kick allowed John Wilshere to score at the corner, Ratchford adding he conversion from out wide.

Salford’s advantage was extended after the half-time interval, Ratchford’s penalty making the score 14-0 to the home side.

The Dragons began their comeback however: McGuire’s kick was not dealt with by the Reds defence and Olivier Elima picked up the loose ball to score, Greg Mounis converting.

With the hosts beginning to tire Les Catalans added a second try, the ball passing through six-or-seven pairs of hands before Dane Carlaw finished off.

The scores were levelled thanks to a third try from the French side with just five minutes left in the game, Adam Mogg the scorer.

Another penalty from Ratchford edged Salford back in front, but McGuire crossed with seconds left on the clock to give Les Catalans a hard-won victory.