Salford Red Devils Stun St Helens in Controversial Super League Victory
On June 23, 2024, the Salford Red Devils delivered a stunning 20-18 victory over the reigning champions, St Helens, marking the first time they have completed the double over their rivals since 1980. The game, however, was overshadowed by a controversial incident involving Salford’s kicker, Marc Sneyd, and his apparent attempt to “con” the referee.
In the first half, with Salford leading 10-6, Sneyd deliberately missed a penalty kick, instead playing the ball into the path of advancing teammate Chris Atkin, who scored a try on the right-hand side. The touch judges and the referee, Jack Smith, quickly ruled out the score, explaining to Sneyd that he must make a genuine attempt at the kick rather than use it as a diversion.
“He must make a genuine attempt at the kick rather than use it as a diversion.”
- Referee Jack Smith
Despite the unusual incident, Sneyd’s boot proved instrumental in Salford’s victory. He set up Deon Cross’ second try with a deft kick, and in the final minutes, his successful conversion from Chris Hankinson’s try sealed the win for the Red Devils.
The result means that St Helens failed to regain the top spot in the Super League, remaining two points behind Wigan and just two points ahead of Salford. The Red Devils’ triumph has firmly placed them in the driving seat for a playoff spot, a remarkable turnaround after being priced as outsiders earlier in the week.
While the “con attempt” by Sneyd sparked a lively debate, Salford’s resilient performance and their first double over St Helens since 1980 will undoubtedly be the main talking points for rugby league enthusiasts.
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