Harris wants Salford to demonstrate progress on big stage

Salford Red Devils head-coach Iestyn Harris has called on his side to demonstrate their progress on the big stage at the Magic Weekend.

Harris took over the reigns last month and whilst he admits that the full package is still some time away, he believes his charges can win their fixture against Widnes.

“We’ve been making progress but we’re at a crucial stage now where results are paramount over the next six to seven weeks,” he said.

“You’ve got a lot of players who have come together in a short space of time and you throw me in there as a new coach and there has to be time to gel.

“In professional sport you don’t always get that but what you do get is the need is to make improvements each day until the match at the end of the week.

“I’ve had to add bits as we go and whilst the complete package is probably six to eight months away I’m hopeful of a win this week.’

Harris also spoke of his admiration for Saturday’s opponents Widnes, a club who have been slowly building since gaining Super League status in 2012.

Their rise is a stark contrast to Salford, who are owned by millionaire businessman Marwan Koukash, a man who has invested heavily and is expecting immediate success.

“Widnes are a team who have had stability for two or three years,” Harris admitted.

“They’ve been able to nurture their own talent whilst bringing in a little bit more quality each year.

“They play with a lot of energy and enthusiasm so there’s no suprise that they’ve been winning games this season.

“Saturday is a really good test for us because we played them a few weeks ago when I’d just joined the club.

“We’ve been working on some things since then so I want to a see full eighty minute performance and signs of improvement from my team.”