STEVE Price slammed Warrington Wolves’ display in the defeat to Salford Red Devils as the worst of his tenure as head coach.

The Wire were humbled at The Halliwell Jones Stadium as Salford confidently strode to a 36-12 victory to inflict a second successive defeat on their hosts.

Wolves now trail Super League leaders St Helens by four points and Price says it was evident from early on that the intent was missing from his side.

However, he insists his side did not cut corners in their preparations or underestimate Ian Watson’s men.

Asked whether this was the worst he had seen from his side, he responded: “You could say it was.

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“Our intent to start the game was poor and it flowed from there.

“The ruck speed across the board was way too fast. To concede 38 points was extremely disappointing.

“You get line speed through tackle management and control. You get your line set and get your energy from that but we didn’t generate any today.

“I didn’t see anything during the week to indicate this. The boys have been training pretty good.

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“We were confident going into the game as ever but we weren’t at the races.

“We certainly didn’t underestimate them. We show everyone we face a lot of respect and it was no different today.

“They were hot conditions today but they handled it way better than us. We’ve got a bit of work to do.”

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Toby King was a surprise absentee for The Wire as Harvey Livett took his place at left centre.

Price says his absence was precautionary and he has a chance of returning for Monday’s trip to Hull Kingston Rovers.

“Toby King had a bit of a strain with his leg,” he said.

“It happened right at the back end of our captain’s run and it was a bit of a risk to send him out today.

“He’s a possibility to be back for Monday. He has a chance.

“We have a few bumps and bruises but nothing too bad.

“We’ve got two days to lick our wounds, get back to training on Sunday and get up for Hull KR on Monday.”

Full video reaction to come