A controversial last-gasp try from James Bentley ensured Super League leaders St Helens completed a dramatic comeback to beat Salford Red Devils 32-30 on Friday.

The Red Devils looked set to spring a shock when they came from 16-0 down to lead 30-16 with 18 minutes remaining at the Totally Wicked Stadium, Niall Evalds grabbing two of their five tries including one dazzling effort from 80 metres.

However, Lachlan Coote added to his first-half touchdown with two more to complete a hat-trick, before landing a match-winning conversion after Bentley squeezed over the line.

Saints' final try was a contentious one, the video referee ruling in their favour despite Bentley appearing to briefly lose possession before grounding the ball.

Salford coach Ian Watson told Sky Sports: "To be 16-0 down and show the character, the fight and the desire to get back into a game like that ... that's credit to the boys. We just needed to be a bit smarter to finish the game off there at the back end."

Friday's other game saw Huddersfield Giants come from behind at home to record a valuable 30-22 victory over fellow strugglers Hull Kingston Rovers.

The Giants trailed 16-8 at the break but ran out winners to move four points clear of their opponents, who remain 11th in the table with only London Broncos beneath them.