RL NEWS--WIGAN MADE TO WORK HARD

Wigan ran out 30-18 winners at the Willows but they were made to fight all the way by a plucky Salford outfit.

Frank Endacott's men had swept into a 12-0 lead within the first 20 minutes but John Harvey's outfit are made of stern stuff.

Forgotten scrum-half Tony Smith got the scoring underway with a neat try which was converted by Andy Farrell before Neil Cowie and Farrell combined to send Mick Cassidy over - Farrell bettered the score.

Wigan were in charge at that point, but Salford rallied and after being denied on three occasions by last-ditch tackles they finally got a try four minutes before half-time when Paul Southern created an opening for Gary Broadbent who did not pass up the opportunity. Jon Roper added the extras.

After the break though Wigan found top gear again and took a 24-6 lead as Farrell converted two tries from Kris Radlinksi.

But Salford refused to throw in the towel and converted tries from Broadbent and Jason Nicol reduced the deficit to just six points.

Wigan were on the ropes, but they are not one of the title favourites for nothing and they secured the victory late on through Farrell who created his own try and then booted his fifth goal from five attempts.