Salford (20) 28
Tries: Stapleton, Myler, Henry, Sibbit Goals: Wilshere 6
Celtic Crusaders (4) 16
Tries: Lupton, Duggan 2 Goals: Hannay 2

Salford held off Celtic Crusaders' second-half fightback to make a winning start to their Super League campaign.

The home side stormed into a 20-0 lead after 21 minutes thanks to tries from Craig Stapleton, Richie Myler and Mark Henry, all converted by John Wilshere.

Peter Lupton and two Tony Duggan tries helped cut the lead to four points midway through the second half as the Crusaders produced a spirited display.

But Ian Sibbit's try and two Wilshere penalties eased Salford to victory.

The Welsh side paid the price for their sluggish start but there was one bright note as Duggan crossed for his 100th try in English rugby league.

The 30-year-old Australian full-back scored the Crusaders' first-ever try in their inaugural game three years ago and reached the century early in the second half on his 85th appearance.

Salford coach Shaun McRae:

"We're really happy and delighted to get the two points.

"The start we got away to was terrific. Our pack was dominant and they gave us a solid foundation for the other guys to play off the back of.

"Celtic found a way to claw themselves back into the match but we didn't panic at all. They are a very good side. They are really well-drilled and have some very clever players."

Celtic Crusaders coach John Dixon:

"You can't give a side a 20-point start. It was too big a lead to reel back.

"We are familiarising ourselves at this level, but we think we've got a team that can compete in this competition."

Salford: Fitzpatrick, Wilshere, Littler, Talau, Henry, Smith, Myler, Cashmere, Alker, Stapleton, Adamson, Parker, Swain. Replacements: Leuluai, Paul, Sibbit, Nash.

Celtic Crusaders: Duggan, Dyer, Hannay, Dalle Cort, Blackwood, Quinn, Van Dijk, O'Hara, Smith, Bryant, Peek, Mapp, Lupton. Replacements: Budworth, Tangata-Toa, Chan, Beasley.

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