Gil Dudson breaks silence on Leeds Rhinos game and red card as he bids farewell to Catalans Dragons

Gil Dudson has declared his actions against Leeds Rhinos on Friday night ‘not how he wanted to finish’ his Catalans Dragons career.

The Welsh international was sent off during the Dragons’ clash with Leeds live on Sky Sports for an alleged headbutt that has subsequently seen him banned for three games.

And, with Dudson signing a deal with the Warrington Wolves from 2023 onwards, that red card was the last action of him in a Catalans shirt – something which he now regrets.

Dudson posted on Twitter: “Well that certainly wasn’t the way I wanted to end my time with the Dragons personally or collectively.

“What a place to have lived and played rugby league. From the moment we arrived we were met with warmth and open arms, making friends for life both on and off the field. My family and I have fell in love with the Catalans region and will miss it fondly.

“A special thanks goes to Mr. Guasch for the opportunity to come and play for your great shirt. We made some history in my short time, winning the league leaders and reaching the grand final. These are memories I will cherish forever.

“An even bigger thank you goes to my amazing wife who without her none of this would have been possible, moving to a foreign country with no knowledge of the language and has pushed our family to embrace the culture and thrive.”

It’s an incredibly heartfelt goodbye and one which clearly pained Dudson to write after the heartbreak of Friday night.

Of course, the Welsh forward is heading for the Warrington Wolves next season as Daryl Powell plots the Cheshire club’s rejuvenation after a dismal 2022 in which they finished second bottom of the Super League table.

Dudson will definitely play a key part in Powell’s tenure at the Halliwell Jones Stadium.