Niall Evalds: Castleford Tigers full-back explains that his team won’t be taking the Salford Red Devils for granted

Castleford Tigers full-back Niall Evalds has said that his side will not be taking the Salford Red Devils lightly ahead of their Magic Weekend fixture this Saturday.

The Tigers head into the game at St James’ Park looking to get back on track for a play-off push after falling to a 22-0 loss at the hands of the Wigan Warriors.

Castleford full-back Evalds will be looking to come away with two points against his former club and knows that despite not pushing for a play-off place themselves, the Red Devils should not be underestimated.

“They are a quality side Salford, they have some good players and that performance against Hull FC shows what they can do when they are on it, so we won’t be taking them for granted and we are not underestimating anyone,” Evalds told Prost International.

“It’s a huge fixture, especially with the result on Monday, there’s only three left and if we win this week, it would keep us on track and keeps us in that race. It’s really tight around us and teams competing for that place.”

Magic Weekend has been a successful stomping ground for the Tigers. Since their first event in 2008, they have won eight games losing just three times.

St James’ Park has been an excellent venue for one of Super League’s biggest events of the year, and after the 2020 edition was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, fans will be looking forward to the ‘carnival’ like atmosphere.

Evalds knows how special events such as Magic Weekend can be, despite not having the best time on the field at previous Magic events, but the full-back is looking forward to the occasion.

“It’s a big occasion and a big stadium, it’s a big game for us in our quest for the play-off spots,” Evalds added.

“I’m really excited for it and after the bad result on Monday, we are looking to bounce back from it. These occasions are pretty special and hopefully we can come away with a win.

“Playing in a stadium as good as that, it makes such a difference as it’s a bit of a carnival atmosphere, a great occasion and probably one of the highlights in the rugby league calendar. This week’s about recovery and making sure everyone is in full fit condition.”

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