In a first for Super League, last year’s League Leaders’ Shield winners Catalans Dragons take on the newly promoted Toulouse in a French derby.
The Dragons haven’t been able to replicate their form from last year as they went on to play in a first Grand Final and need a win to get back on the horse after their Challenge Cup exit last week.
As for Toulouse they’ve won just one game but that was against the Champions St Helens. They’re capable of defeating the Dragons which makes this battle even more intriguing.
Team News:
Catalans will be without Sam Tomkins for the next month due to a fracture in his fibula. He joins Gil Dudson, Samisoni Langi, Dean Whare and Julian Bousquet in the treatment room. Alrix Da Costa and Corentin Le Cam are back in contention.
Toulouse have Lloyd White and Gadwin Springer back in the squad but still have six players out including the likes of Dom Peyroux.
Match Preview – Key Battles:
Arthur Mourgue vs Olly Ashall-Bott: With Sam Tomkins out, Arthur Mourgue will enjoy a run at fullback and the elusive young man will certainly produce a few highlights in this game but so will opposite number Olly Ashall-Bott. Both exciting runners, the pair may be worth the admission money alone.
Josh Drinkwater vs Tony Gigot: A former Catalans hero as a Lance Todd trophy winner with the club in 2018, Tony Gigot will hope to dismantle Josh Drinkwater’s Dragons’ side tomorrow. However, despite not being as eye catching as Gigot, Drinkwater is one of the most creative players in the league especially due to his short kicking game. The player who creates the most chances may lead their team to victory.
Michael McIlorum vs Eloi Pelissier: Another former Dragon will look to make his old side pay but will find it difficult against one of the league’s in form hookers in the shape of Michael McIlorum. Two very different hookers they’ll battle for control over the middle channel.
Where the game will be won and lost:
Both French sides have very different styles. Catalans will be looking to run over the top of their French rivals whilst Toulouse will use their flair to catch the Dragons off guard. Which ever side plays their game to the best of their abilities will likely come away with the bragging rights.
Score Prediction: Catalans Dragons 30-16 Toulouse Olympique