LATCHFORD Albion Giants claimed a 20-24 victory at Salford City Roosters A to advance to the second round of the NWML Shield.
With Roosters first team not playing, it was a much changed and stronger Salford side but Sean Bond’s young Latchford side were up for the challenge.
The visitors started well and took an early lead through tries from Will Maguire and Harrison Cliffe, both converted by Maguire.
A response came with a converted try from the hosts but some resolute defending, against a large Roosters pack, kept Salford at bay.
Further scores from Harrison Turner and a second from Maguire, both converted, saw Albion in a commanding lead midway through the second half.
In the last 10 minutes the hosts threw everything they could to try and get back into the game. An eight point try shortly followed by a converted try saw the lead reduced to four points entering the last five minutes, but the visitors regrouped and managed to see the game out coming away with a fantastic victory.
Coach Sean Bond said: “ I was really proud of how we stood up to the challenge. They were the biggest side we have faced this year whose plan was to try and steam roller us but we controlled the game for large periods, and had superior pace and skill when it mattered.
“It was tough. We lost a prop early on but Mike Lagar stood up and was outstanding playing over 70 minutes in the middle on a very warm day. I was massively impressed with Riley Cole who was outstanding both in defence and attack. “
Albion now have a week off before a local derby on April 26 when they host Woolston Rovers A
