Paul Rowley hails ‘champion’ Salford player as he provides update on Ryan Brierley injury

Salford coach Paul Rowley paid tribute to milestone man Kallum Watkins who made his 350th career appearance in their impressive 42-10 win at Castleford.

The Red Devils ran in eight tries to take the spoils and go level on points with Catalans, Warrington and Leigh at the top of the Super League table.

Speaking after the game, Rowley praised England international Watkins after he joined the 350 club.

Rowley said: “The result was the main thing, but to get such a convincing win is probably a measure of how far we’ve come in 18 months or so.

“I don’t think we were at our absolute best, but I always felt we were in control.

“There were some really good moments in defence and attack, although I thought we had a bit more in the tank.

“Our character and attitude to the game was really good – and a fitting tribute to Kallum Watkins’ 350th career appearance.

“And it’s probably been 350 games of the absolute top standard because you don’t really see him drop his standards.

“He’s been the ultimate pro for a long time, a high achiever, and he’s a champion.”

Paul Rowley provides positive news on Ryan Brierley’s injury

Scotland international full-back Ryan Brierley left the action after taking a knock to his knee, but Rowley says it is just a minor bump.

Rowley said: “He did it tackling Muizz Mustapha and putting his body on the line – as he’s done all year.

“He got folded a little bit so we got him off, but if we had needed him to continue he could have done.

“Ryan will be fine for next week and our form is good heading into that game. We’re confident.”

Salford will now turn their attention to the Challenge Cup, with the Red Devils facing a trip to Hull KR next Saturday in the quarter-finals.

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