Salford opened a six-point gap between themselves and Widnes after this emphatic victory.

The Vikings' fourth successive defeat by the Reds leaves Frank Endacott's side in deep relegation trouble.

But this was a below-par display with the Reds 22-0 ahead until the Vikings grabbed a consolation try from Terry O'Connor, who latched on to Gary Hulce's kick with Stephen Myler booting the conversion.

Widnes made the brighter start forcing Salford on the back foot but failed to take the early chances.

Then Widnes paid a heavy price for O'Connor's sin-binning in the 19th minute after throwing punches at Kevin McGuiness as the Reds took full advantage with two tries in three minutes from Stuart Littler in O'Connor's absence.

Mark Shipway, who came on as substitute for injured Sean Rutgerson, supplied the final pass on both occasions.

Salford went into a 14-0 interval lead with Luke Robinson's first touchdown on the half hour after a smart pick-up from Chris Charles' grubber kick.

Charles, who had missed the conversions to Littler's tries, added the extras.

Widnes held out for the first 20 minutes of the second half until Hulce's wayward pass was intercepted by Robinson who darted down the length of the field to seal an impressive win.

Charles booted the conversion and then added a penalty after more ill-discipline by the Vikings who were without stand-off Owen Craigie who missed the clash through mumps.

Widnes welcomed back Shane Millard and Gary Connolly but made far too many mistakes against a more determined Salford outfit.