Super League: Salford Red Devils 12-26 Catalans Dragons

Salford old boy Jodie Broughton's hat-trick was the difference between the two sides at St James' Park

Jodie Broughton's second-half hat-trick earned Catalans a priceless win against former club Salford at Magic Weekend.

Salford went ahead through Weller Hauraki's surge after an earlier score was chalked off.

Ben Garcia and Julian Bousquet replied for the Dragons, who had a try ruled out in establishing a half-time lead.

However, Broughton's ruthless finishing lifted the Perpignan club off the foot of the table regardless of George Griffin's consolation.

The Red Devils, wearing a bright yellow charity top to raise funds for the I love Manchester charity in the aftermath of the Arena tragedy last year, remain in the top eight.

On a hot, muggy day under the imposing stands of St James' Park, these two sides served up nervy fare, punctuated by errors.

Hauraki's powerful finish had the Salford support in good voice but Catalans grew into the game and smart left-edge work saw Garcia cross, while Bousquet showed smart reactions to pounce on a loose ball.

It looked as though missed kicks might cost Catalans but Broughton's 13-minute treble gave them valuable breathing space and two vital points.

Salford: Evalds; Johnson, Welham, Sa'u, Olpherts; Lui, Littlejohn; Kopczak, Tomkins, Mossop, Griffin, Hauraki, Flanagan.

Interchanges: Tasi, McCarthy, Wood, Murray.

Catalans Dragons: Gigot; Broughton, Mead, Wiliame, Tierney; Bird, Drinkwater; Simon, McIlorum, Moa, Jullien, Garcia, Casty.

Interchanges: Anderson, Bousquet, Baitieri, Maria.

Referee: Gareth Hewer (RFL).