The excitement of a road trip watching Salford always sparks my imagination. Towards the back end of last season I thought I’d lose these special days out of my life. As we approached the capital down the M40 it felt a little bit like a trip into the unknown. Although Hammersmith are an amateur outfit the supporters I’d spoke to seemed pretty cautious. 

Chiswick Rugby ground was a lovely set up with a nice club house situated right next to the winding river Thames. As the players warmed up it had now gone dark after a dry and bright day. The chilly breeze made the temperature feel a lot cooler than what it actually was. Big coats, scarfs and bobble hats were a plenty around the perimeter fence that surrounded the artificial playing surface.

The home side kicked off into the swirling wind and the ball took a tricky bounce before beating Salford to go in touch. The Hoists attacked with real purpose looking well organised in their approach. A try on their first real attack which was also converted made the travelling supporters fear the worst and Salford now needed a response.

Brad Dwyer orchestrated the opening stages for the visitors with his direct running at the back pedalling Hoists defence. Two players went for the same teasing kick which was spilled allowing Dwyer to pounce. The Salford supporters celebrated with the same pride and passion as they did last season. Outsiders might find this a little extreme playing against an amateur side but this team is full of young players on the start of their Rugby League journey and it’s clear to see the supporters have definitely got their backs. 

A super break down the right edge saw Sam Hill race over. Hill looked lighting quick and as sharp as a steel burr. He converted both the early tries with an astute air of confidence, 6-12.

Salford had spotted a weakness on the right edge and some good ball work paved a try for Toby Hughes.

Oliver Garmston worked overtime in the second row. Salford’s number twelve led from the front with some ferocious tackling and lung bursting runs. At just nineteen years of age we have a terrific young player in our squad there. 

Two more tries were added before the break. Centre Joe Hartley crossed after some neat passing in the build up before Rafa Van Osselaer raced through before a spectacular swan dive over the try line. 

The Hoists worked hard to put pressure on Salford at the start of the second half and they enjoyed plenty of possession. Bardyel Wells powered over to make the game safe though at 6-34.

The Hoists grabbed a try before the excellent Joe Hartley scored his second for Salford. Sam Hill rounded off the scoring with his second try and he made it five from eight with the conversions. Hill looked strong, fast and despite his young age he was very vocal on the pitch adding his leadership qualities to a young side that’s got lots of promise and potential. 

For Salford in 2026 it’s a clean slate as this famous club moves into the next chapter. These players are all pioneers of an exciting journey that I’d encourage anyone with an affection for this club to be part of.

Hammersmith can be proud of their efforts and I am sure they will have a successful season. Their club made it a very welcome and enjoyable experience and I am sure we will see them in the cup next year. 

Salford coach Mike Grady was happy with his sides performance and the more this group work and evolve together the better they will get.

Next up is a trip to Barrow next Saturday.

Hammersmith 10 Salford 42.

Paul Whiteside.

Big thanks to Steve McCormick for the photos.