Brown pleased to prevail in the snow

St Helens boss Nathan Brown admitted he had "never seen conditions like it" as his side held off a brave Salford challenge in the snow to win 14-10.

Saints led 14-0 before the Reds hit back with late tries by Liam Foran and Marc Sneyd. The kicking of debutant Lewis Charnock proved decisive with the 18-year-old stand off booting three goals from four attempts. Saints' tries came from wingers Ade Gardner and Francis Meli with the groundstaff having to clear snow from the pitch markings before the kick off and at half-time.

"I have never seen conditions like it and it's a credit to all those who helped get the game on," the Australia-raised Brown said. "I was pleased with our guys commitment and effort. Paul Wellens was great on his return and Nathan Ashe did well at hooker."

He added: "Young Lewis has only just turned 18 and had one session with the team and Dom Speakman also made his debut. The youngsters did well in key positions.

"We had to tough it out and find a way to win. Salford were committed and it didn't matter whether we won by one, two or 20 points.

"Tony Puletua hurt his knee but Josh Jones showed he is a good, confident young player."

Interim Reds boss Alan Hunte was delighted with his side's effort but they have still not won at Saints since 1980.

Brian Noble, linked with the Salford job, was a guest of Reds owner Marwan Koukash but Hunte said: "I understood my role when I stepped in and I am happy with that. Marwan will make a decision when he is ready."

The Reds lost Martin Gleeson, Theo Fages and Danny Williams through injury and Hunte said: "We were down to the bare bones at the end.

"But the performance was very pleasing and I thought we deserved something."