THE Lions had few answers to the class of Salford in this friendly at the Willows that helped both sides blow the cobwebs away.
But the big winners were the fans, who finally got to watch a competitive game.
And one of the spectators was Lions coach Paul Smith, who watched from the sidelines but will definitely come into the reckoning for the opening game against Workington.
He said: "We didn’t start as well as I would have liked but we never gave up throughout.
"I was really proud of the effort and at times we looked dangerous and we created chances. We had nine new players in the squad and once they gel together I’m sure we will go well. I could take a lot of plusses from the game."
Ian Watson and Gary Hulce combined with telling effect in the middle for the Lions and Richie Hawkyard was always willing to join in the line from full-back.
But it was Salford's Little and Large double act who topped the bill.
Salford prop Ray Cashmere picked up a try and tamed the Lions with his strong running.
And Cashmere’s heroics were ably complemented by little Karl Fitzpatrick who was also amongst the tries and Luke Sharpe.
New Australian signing Daniel Holdsworth also showed some subtle touches and clearly has a good football brain.
Coach Shaun McRae said: "This was the first time Daniel has run on grass since he came over to the UK. He’s a good player, he also has a very good kicking game, we didn’t see that today but I’m sure we will as the season unfolds. He did well.
Lions’ coach Paul Smith said: "We didn’t start well but I was proud of the effort – we’ve only had one outdoor training session since Christmas and that was at Eccles in the snow."
Reds led 22-0 at the break thanks to early tries from the hard working Steve Tyrer, Ian Sibbit and Willie Talau.
The lively Fitzpatrick also scored while Cashmere struck in the second half. Barry Hamilton and Andy Isherwood scored Swinton’s consolation tries.
Lions' football director Paul Kidd said: "We enjoyed the game. We showed what we’re capable of and it’s given us quite a lot to work on as we gear up for what will hopefully be a good season."
Salford coach McRae said: "It was a miracle this game took place bearing in mind what the weather was like earlier in the week. We needed the hit out, we’ve still a lot to do but we’ll expect a step up in class against Widnes next week."
"Swinton never came up. There were a lot of really good things coming from this game. We need to be smarter this season but we certainly have a great deal of competition for places."
