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Survival is in Reds backyard

20/ 9/2002

SALFORD CITY REDS - as a popular beer advert says - are preparing to 'ave it! in their own backyard.

This Sunday Karl Harrison's men face Castleford Tigers in arguably their most important match in living memory.

The last time Salford faced a game of this magnitude was the final tie of the 1987/8 season, where Kevin Ashcroft's Reds had to beat Halifax to ensure survival.

That day the Salford public turned out in force to cheer Darren Bloor, Keith Bentley and Co. to a convincing victory.

In the latter stages of the game fans young and old embraced each other, shouted themselves hoarse and danced on the touchline. A repeat performance, from players and fans alike, is needed this weekend.

In 1987 the pitfalls of relegation were, perhaps, a small drop in attendance and the loss of a couple of star players.

Relegation in the Super League era is a different matter entirely.

Although John Wilkinson has guaranteed professional rugby at the Willows next year, no matter what, the financial implications of relegation are severe, to say the least.

In theory, the Reds have have two chances.

If they win, they're safe - it's as simple as that.

If Wakefield lose, Salford are safe regardless of what happens against Castleford.

But after seeing how the Wolves played on Friday night and how Wakefield rallied to condemn Huddersfield to the drop last year, it would be a brave man who tips them to lose.

Two points is a must against Castleford, especially considering the last time the Tigers made the trip to the Willows - a record 74-16 defeat which eventually cost Steve McCormack his job.

There can be no better time for the fans who have drifted away over the lean seasons to return to the fold and add to the amazing wall of sound generated at Wilderspool on Friday.

Fans believe Super League survival could just be the start for Salford, and that Karl Harrison, given a full off-season to train and recruit, can drag the Reds away from the role of perennial strugglers and up to that of play-off contenders.

If ever a team, or indeed a city needs a win, this is the time. We all have a part to play.

• Salford's media manager, Carolyn Derbyshire, said defensive efforts at Warrington were unparalleled. She has got statisticians at Opta HQ checking to see if the feat of missing only six tackles in one game is a record for the Tetley's Bitter Super League.