Catalans Dragons head coach Steve McNamara has spoken on his side’s recent form and the tough run of fixtures that Les Dracs face in the coming weeks.
Les Dracs were tipped to go well by many this season based on their impressive recruitment which saw them bring in plenty of NRL stars including Luke Keary, who has recently hit out at the state of Super League.
Catalans also brought on board Super League talents Tommy Makinson and Oliver Partington but in spite of the roster they’d compiled, it took them a while to get going as Les Dracs lost their first three games before securing a crucial win over Leeds Rhinos in Round Four.
Barring a dramatic 14-13 loss at home to St Helens, Catalans have won every game since then and last week’s golden point win over Wakefield Trinity will have certainly bolstered the Dragons’ confidence – something they’ll need ahead of their tough upcoming run.
Speaking to club media ahead of Magic Weekend, which Catalans kick off with a game against Leigh, McNamara said: “We’ve been through a big period and dragged ourselves back into the middle of the competition if you like. There are a really exciting few weeks in front with Magic being the first one up.”
Catalans Dragons set for massive three weeks
Catalans have slowly climbed the Super League ladders and they currently sit seventh, level on points with St Helens, Leeds Rhinos and Warrington Wolves. Should results go their way, Catalans could jump to fifth this weekend, but they could also fall as low as ninth.
All six Super League games will take place at the same venue on Saturday and Sunday so after his side play first, McNamara will be able to watch the rest of the games play out with the fans.
On Magic Weekend and the ensuing weeks, he said: “It’s a great concept, I love the concept. The players really enjoy it, Newcastle is a brilliant place to go and stadium to play at. We’re all excited about the challenge in front.
“We all know the schedule, we’ve got Magic Weekend and then the semi-final of the Challenge Cup. After that on the Saturday, we have to come back and play St Helens on the Thursday.”
It could be a pivotal three weeks with wins in all three games catapulting the club towards the top four and earning them a spot in the Challenge Cup Final, however, he’s focused on that fixture with Leigh Leopards.
“I think Leigh have beaten us the last three times, they’ve played extremely well against us and we haven’t performed well. We know it’s a tough game.” McNamara admitted.
“It’s not about revenge. It’s about understanding that we’re playing a very good team who are in good form and have good players and depth so we need to play well to win this game.”
One of Catalans’ star performers in 2025 is Nick Cotric and the winger has recently returned from injury. The NRL signing admitted that it took the players time to “click” but insists those in the squad are now “finding their mojo”.
