Eight Years On: Salford’s Dramatic Million Pound Game Triumph Over Hull KR
On October 1, 2016, Salford Red Devils secured their place in the Super League with a thrilling 19-18 victory over Hull KR in the Million Pound Game. The match has gone down in rugby league history, with Gareth O’Brien’s iconic drop goal in extra time sealing the decisive win for the Red Devils.
The dramatic events at Craven Park that day have had a lasting impact on both clubs. While Salford continue to defy the odds and chase a second playoff finish in three seasons, Hull KR have bounced back and now find themselves genuine contenders for the Super League title.
As the eight-year anniversary of this memorable clash approaches, we take a look at what happened next to the key players from Salford’s triumphant squad.
Gareth O’Brien, the Hero of the Day
Gareth O’Brien, the hero of the day, is still plying his trade in Super League, having enjoyed spells with Toronto Wolfpack and Castleford Tigers. Now 32 years old, he currently plays for Leigh and is just three games away from 300 career appearances.
Other Notable Performers
Other notable performers on that day include Greg Johnson, who scored one of Salford’s four tries, and Josh Jones, the three-time Great Britain international who has recently retired due to concussion-related issues.
The likes of Junior Sa’u, Josh Griffin, and Rob Lui have all gone on to have successful careers since that fateful match, while Michael Dobson has transitioned into coaching, joining the Newcastle Knights’ staff.
As the two sides prepare to meet again at Craven Park this Friday, the events of that 2016 Million Pound Game continue to loom large in the minds of rugby league fans.
🔗 Source
