Salford Red Devils may have suffered a 32-6 defeat at home to Leeds Rhinos, but the significance of the day went beyond the result. After a tumultuous off-season marked by financial struggles, the club can finally look forward with optimism following their recent takeover.
Throughout the winter, Salford’s financial difficulties made headlines for all the wrong reasons. The club had to take a £500,000 advance in central distribution money to stay afloat, and uncertainty loomed over their future. However, relief arrived just before the new Super League season when Swiss investment banker Dario Berta led a consortium to purchase the club. Yet, their opening game against St Helens was marred by controversy as the Rugby Football League delayed approval of the takeover, forcing Salford to field a reserve team due to salary cap constraints. That decision led to a humiliating 82-0 defeat, sparking significant backlash, especially given the game’s high-profile broadcast on the BBC.
Fortunately, with the takeover officially approved, Salford were able to field a full-strength team against Leeds, marking the beginning of what they hope will be a new era. Historically one of the few Super League clubs without a wealthy benefactor, Salford has often found itself battling financial instability. However, the arrival of new chief executive Chris Irwin, a lifelong Salfordian, signals a shift in the club’s fortunes.
“The money that’s coming in is significant, and there is a bigger plan around the investment group and what they want to do with the club,” Irwin stated. “My job now is to ensure our club no longer needs to be walking around cap in hand. I think we have the tools to be able to easily avoid that.”
The new ownership group has ambitious plans, including the potential construction of an arena on the land surrounding the Salford Community Stadium. Their aim is to transform the club’s financial situation and long-term prospects.
On the pitch, despite the loss to Leeds, there is no need for drastic changes. Salford finished fourth last season, exceeding expectations despite operating on a tighter budget than many of their rivals. Now, with financial stability in sight, they have an opportunity to build on their recent success and compete on a more level playing field.
However, head coach Paul Rowley acknowledged that the turbulence of recent months had taken a toll on his players. “People have said to us that we must be buzzing to have the restrictions lifted, but actually, we’re really tired,” he admitted. “Our team run was flat, and this has really taken a lot out of the boys.”
Earlier in the year, there were concerns that Salford might need to sell key players to balance the books, but they managed to retain their squad. That stability should provide confidence that they can still challenge in 2025.
Meanwhile, for Leeds, this victory will be seen as a positive step after an opening-round defeat to Wakefield. The Rhinos have invested heavily in their squad, and new signings such as Keenan Palasia, Ryan Hall, and Jake Connor who was outstanding in this game already appear to be settling in well.
Unlike Salford, Leeds carry significant expectations. Their head coach, Brad Arthur, brings proven pedigree, and the pressure is on to deliver results. While it is still early in the season, Leeds have assembled a squad capable of competing for silverware.
For Salford, despite the disappointment of the result, simply reaching this stage without the financial uncertainty that loomed all winter is a victory in itself. Just a few months ago, their future was in doubt, but now they can focus on progressing both on and off the field.