Joel Tomkins has given his verdict after his Catalans Dragons side pulled off an almighty victory over reigning champions Hull KR to go sixth in the Super League table.
A late try from young winger Lenny Marc sealed the win, as the home side have to do it incredibly tough with just one fit substitute for the majority of the second half.
Injuries to Josh Allen, Julian Bouquet (both HIA), Mathieu Laguerre (lower leg) and Lewis Dodd (knee) forced the Dragons into some major reshuffles, but that didn’t hinder their effort and commitment, and every player dug in to the end to ensure that the two points remained with them.
Tomkins spoke to Sky Sports following the game and couldn’t quite believe what he’d just witnessed. He couldn’t be prouder of his side, particularly those in the forward pack who had to play extended minutes due to injuries.
“That’s a special win for us,” said the Dragons boss. “We were absolutely busted at the end of the game there.
“We lost two of our middles with HIAs in the first half. Laguerre, and then we lost ‘Doddy’ as well.
“To keep turning up for each other the way the boys did there, that was the most pleasing thing for me. It wasn’t perfect, but we did some really special things with some special efforts.
“I thought [Benjamin] Garcia was immense in the middle, playing 80 minutes after he’s been out for a couple of weeks, he was fantastic for me.”
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“By far” – Catalans Dragons put on best performance of Tomkins’ reign
In Tomkins’ 21 matches as boss of the Perpignan outfit, none have been quite like that. Whilst there has been some good wins in that time, the boss believes that this result tops all other matches in his coaching career so far.
“Oh yes, by far,” replied Tomkins when asked if this performance ranks at number one.
“It’s one of the best performances I’ve been involved in as a coach or a player.
“When you know what’s happening behind the scenes and the players who’s injured and players who’s playing busted, and then you get a couple of lads ruled out during the 80 minutes, it makes it even more special.
“There was loads of excuses for us tonight, especially when they drew level. We could have thrown the towel in, so to finish that way and get a try at the end, really, really special.”
