The Salford Red Devils retained the Colin Dixon Trophy in a tightly contested game in difficult conditions against Halifax RLFC.
Ian Watson welcomed back Craig Kopczak and Mark Flanagan back into the side, as both had been rested for the first pre-season game of 2017 against Rochdale Hornets the week before.
New signing Kris Welham made his first start for Salford since joining from Bradford Bulls, Ryan Lannon was also promoted to the starting line-up in place of the injured Josh Jones.
Halifax made a strong start to the game and quickly took the lead, Ben Johnston darted through a gap in the Salford defence to finish under the posts, and help the hosts to an early 6-0 lead.
The Red Devils quickly restored parity, Prop Forward Craig Kopczak showed great strength to force his way over from close range. Michael Dobson added the conversion to make the score 6-6 with 15 minutes played.
As the first half developed, an encouraging performance from the Red Devils forward pack saw Salford enjoying plenty of possession and territory, but Halifax were resolute in defence held firm until half time.
Salford did get themselves in front early on in the second half, with Hooker Kris Brining darting over from the base of the ruck to score his first try since signing from York City Knights.
Halifax responded positively and put the Red Devils try line under intense pressure for large spells throughout the second half, but Ian Watson’s side stood up to the challenge and kept the home side scoreless in the second period.
With the game still in the balance, Half Back Rob Lui put the result beyond doubt by slotting a drop goal and the Red Devils held out for a 13-6 win.
The final stage of pre-season see’s Salford take on Hull FC at the The Salford Stadium next Sunday. Tickets for this game are available at www.eticketing.co.uk/salfordreddevils.
Salford Red Devils: Evalds, J Carney, Sa’u, Welham, Johnson, Lui, Dobson, Mossop, Brining, Kopczak, Hauraki, Flanagan, Lannon, Tasi, Krasniqi, A Walne, Wood, Bibby, Wilkinson, Murray.
