Paul Rowley, head coach of Salford Red Devils, acknowledges their ‘underdog’ status in the upcoming Super League play-offs.
- Rowley has a personal connection with Leigh, having played for and coached his hometown club.
- Both clubs have demonstrated remarkable performance this season, defying expectations.
- Salford and Leigh will compete in the play-offs with a guaranteed spot in the semi-finals for one.
- Leigh’s recent impressive win against St Helens secured their place in the play-offs.
Paul Rowley, the head coach of Salford Red Devils, considers both Salford and Leigh Leopards as ‘underdogs’ in the upcoming Super League play-offs. Rowley, who has a deep connection to Leigh, having both played for and coached the team, expressed his thoughts ahead of their match on Friday, 27 September.
Salford Red Devils clinched their play-off berth prior to the final week of the season. Their strong performance allowed them to rest key players such as Marc Sneyd and Nene Macdonald, despite a 64-0 loss to Wigan in their final game. This strategic rest has set the stage for their encounter with Leigh.
Leigh Leopards, on the other hand, secured their spot in the top six with a remarkable late-season run. Their final match against St Helens was a tight contest, but they emerged victorious with an 18-12 win, solidifying their place in the play-offs. Head coach Adrian Lam commended the team’s resilience and the trust within the group.
Rowley highlighted the unique position of both clubs as over-achievers this season. He noted their success despite being overshadowed by bigger neighbours. He stated, ‘We’re two underdog clubs who have done remarkably well, and while I’m pleased for us both to be in this position, I’d rather have been playing Leigh in the Grand Final.’
Lam believes their challenging season has prepared Leigh well for the play-offs. ‘There’s a lot of trust and belief in this group and it was good to have that really important game at home in front of a sold-out stadium,’ Lam said, reflecting on their critical match against St Helens.
The upcoming play-offs promise an intense match with both Salford and Leigh aiming to make the semi-finals.
