The Morning After: Sarginson at full-back, wonderful Watson & Leeds up for the Cup
The Morning After looks at three talking points from the latest Challenge Cup action.
Sarginson at full-back
Salford were without regular full-back Niall Evalds for their Challenge Cup quarter-final against Catalans – but Dan Sarginson stepped up to the plate in perfect fashion.
The 27-year-old is a centre by trade but has filled in at full-back in the past for his previous clubs Wigan and London Broncos. He stole the show in the Red Devils’ win over the Dragons by grabbing a brace and he covered every blade of the grass on the pitch. He really showed his class.
REPORT: Catalans 18-22 Salford: Dan Sarginson try wins it for Red Devils in golden point extra-time
With Evalds leaving Salford at the end of the season to join Castleford, the Red Devils may have found their No. 1 for 2021. Sarginson didn’t look out of place in the full-back role and he’s consistently good.
Wonderful Watson
Salford coach Ian Watson is just 80 minutes away from taking them to their first Challenge Cup final for 51 years, less than 12 months after guiding the Red Devils to a maiden Super League Grand Final.
READ: Salford coach Ian Watson delighted to reach Challenge Cup semi-finals
Watson, who earned 30 caps for Wales during his playing career, has done a fantastic job since taking over the head coaching role on a permanent basis in 2016.
He has never had the biggest budget to work with at Salford but the club have got their recruitment spot on in recent years. They bring in players who want to play for the badge and Watson is a top coach.
Leeds up for the Cup
The Rhinos were very impressive in their 48-18 win over Hull KR. You’d think Leeds coach Richard Agar would be very pleased with his side’s flair in attack and the return of Rhyse Martin gave the Rhinos a huge boost.
REPORT: Leeds 48-18 Hull KR: Rhinos thump Robins to reach Challenge Cup semi-finals
Martin has proved to be a top signing for Super League and the Papua New Guinea international has a huge presence when he’s on the field – not only for his great work ethic but his goalkicking is tremendous as well. Richie Myler deserves a mention too because he is performing brilliantly in the full-back role right now.
Leeds are just 80 minutes away from the Challenge Cup final and they will want to get their hands on the Cup this year.
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