Challenge Cup: Warrington 52-6 Salford

Two tries apiece from Joel Monaghan and Stefan Ratchford led Challenge Cup holders Warrington to an easy victory.

Salford's resistance collapsed after 10 minutes when Wolves prop Chris Hill, Monaghan and full-back Brett Hodgson all touched down within five minutes.

Half-back Ratchford made it 24-0 at the break before Warrington scored five more tries in the second-half.

Salford winger Jodie Broughton provided their only try on what was a miserable afternoon for the visitors.

Salford started brightly, putting the home side under pressure in the opening 10 minutes but failing to get on the scoreboard.

The Wire's quick-fire hat-trick of tries seemed to kill the visitor's spirit and they never looked back.

Stalwarts Micky Higham and Lee Briers came to the party quickly after the restart before Ratchford barged his way to his second try.

Monaghan's second and a late effort from Paul Wood took the hosts beyond 50 points as they easily progressed to the last eight on their pursuit to successfully defend their crown.

VIEW FROM THE DRESSING ROOM

Warrington head coach Tony Smith:

"Our defence has been improving each and every week over the last number of weeks, but I thought our attack was outstanding considering the conditions.

"We came up with some wet-weather rugby league.

"I thought we handled the conditions and handled our opponents well. They were going to have to do some spoiling in order to compete, but we dealt with that okay I reckon."

LINE-UPS

Warrington Wolves: Hodgson; C Riley, Atkins, Grix, J Monaghan; Ratchford, Myler; Wood, Higham, Hill, Waterhouse, Westwood, Cooper.

Replacements: Briers, Carvell, Currie, G Riley

Salford City Reds: Sneyd; Gibson, Gleeson, Gaskell, Broughton; McGoldrick, Fages; Griffin, Godwin, Walne, Ashurst, Dixon, Wild.

Replacements: Emmitt, Foran, James, Nero

Referee: Robert Hicks

Attendance: 5,451