Diggin on the mark as Saints extend unbeaten away record

Salford remain unbeaten at home after Mike Phenix cancelled out Steve Diggin’s opener for Kevin Wilkin’s side in Saturday’s 1-1 draw.

Saints started well, Jimmy Armson shot wide and Lee Ndlovu turned well on the edge of the box but his effort was tipped over by Jay Lynch. In between, Sam Walker’s free-kick had Saints keeper Laurie Walker collecting the ball at the second attempt.

Harry Worley shot over the bar and another Sam Walker free-kick tested Walker who got down to make a routine save.

But it was Saints who broke the deadlock in the 24th minute when a neat build-up involving Armson and Ndlovu set-up Diggin on the edge of the box and his shot was deflected off Priestley and beat Lynch.

Salford almost levelled when Matt Warburton’s 20 yarder was saved by Walker and Jordan Hulme could only lift the ball over from a tight angle. In between, a quick counter-attack saw Ndlovu release full-back Ellis Myles whose shot was blocked by skipper Steve O’Halloran.

Salford began the second half on top and equalised in the 52nd minute. Substitute John Johnston’s near post cross was met by Phenix who got there ahead of Alex Gudger to score.

Salford went close when Billy Priestley’s throw-in found Worley whose header was scrambled clear. Moments later Worley’s header forced Walker into an acrobatic save and from the ensuing corner Priestley headed over.

Saints had a good opportunity when Myles advanced down the right and picked out Diggin who saw his shot tipped around the post by Lynch.

Both sides had late chances. Armson fired over the bar and Diggin shot weakly at Lynch while at the other end Shane Byrne shot over, Worley headed wide and Allen saw his effort miss the target.