CALLUM Green believes Salford have come a long way since the start of the season – but concedes a lack of rugby smarts have prevented them from getting over the line in close games.
The phoenix club’s late heartbreak is developing into an unwelcome habit, with Sheffield Eagles the latest team to deny them at the death.
Nonetheless, green shoots of recovery are evident.
Salford are now only outside the Championship playoff places on points difference, having won seven of their 19 matches.
And for Wigan academy product Green, the fix-ups are clear.
“I think the effort was there, we just need to be a bit smarter,” the outside back told club media.
“There were a few individual errors, and I think it’s just being smarter in the moments that will help us win the game.
“I think the effort is there, we just need some more rugby smarts to edge us over the line.
“We all want to win every week and we all know we can win, if we have a bit more smarts about us and implement it into our game, we’ll go far.
“Sometimes we’ve just got to remember where we’ve come as a club. We’re definitely disappointed, but proud at the same time.”
The 26-year-old, who has had spells at Oldham and Rochdale Hornets, penned a permanent deal with Salford in April after three years out of the professional game.
He is relishing the chance to test himself in the Championship, enthusing: “I’ve loved it, I’m loving my time here.
“Every game is a tough game; you’re playing some top teams, players who’ve played in Super League or in this league for quite a long time.
“I love the challenge every week of playing against different players, and good players, because it tests you and keeps you honest, and shows you how good you are or you want to be.
“I love playing for Salford, and I love the league as well.”