Thorman left frustrated with referee Child after costly loss

“On the 12 penalties, it was one of the most baffling refereeing performances I have seen this year,” he said.

“I was scratching my head a few times and I am coach. I know the sport and I shouldn’t be scratching my head at some of the decisions he made.

“But you can’t dispute what Broughy’s done. He deserves a red card if he has said anything untoward to the officials.”

Asked if he feared any further disciplinary action for Brough from the game’s governing body, Thorman added: “It’s not for me to do their job. It’s not for me to do James Child’s job either but I would have a decent crack at it.

“I thought we competed for most parts apart from the first quarter and the last 10 minutes. But when you make 13 unforced errors with the ball and concede 12 penalties you are going to be chasing your tail.”

Thorman had no complaints about Brough’s efforts on the field, but two tries from Jake Bibby and one apiece from Ben Nakubuwai, Weller Hauraki and Mark Flanagan, along with five goals from Rob Lui, secured a win which lifts Salford into the top eight.

Innes Senior and Ollie Roberts crossed for Huddersfield while Brough kicked two goals, but Thorman is still yet to win a game as caretaker coach since replacing Rick Stone.

Salford coach Ian Watson said: “We started well but got a bit scrappy where we didn’t finish our sets in the first half. But in the second half we got that composure back. Even when they had a purple patch, we defended well and fronted up.”

“We weathered the storm and knew it was going to turn at some point. When it did we got the rewards at the back end.”