In one of the games of the season, the top two battled it out in what many believe is the Grand Final in waiting. Well, if this was the dress rehearsal, we’re in for an Old Trafford treat next month.
Major Talking Points:
1. Jonny who?
It only makes sense to start as the game did. For 90% of the contest, Saints dominated and Jack Welsby and Lewis Dodd were central to that. It’s the best I’ve seen Saints attack all year. The duo outplayed their more experienced opponents and ensured the Saints were so impressive that Catalans’ win almost feels undeserved. However, they perhaps showed their inexperience when they failed to seal the win.
2. Something special from Catalans
It was a repeat of 2012, however this means more. Yes, statistically it was one of Super League’s greatest ever comebacks but it feels like something else entirely, something more meaningful. To do what they did to the Champions and a side who never seem to give up a lead shows they have something special which could turn them into Champions.
3. What does this mean for the rematch?
Assuming the two meet at Old Trafford – and plenty of other teams will have something to say about that don’t worry – what does this result mean for that particular battle? Will it prompt the Saints to be dangerously ruthless so much so they get into a commanding position and seal the deal or will they fear the Dragons allowing Catalans to dominate. I can’t wait to see. Bring on the play-offs.
Player Ratings:
St Helens
1 Lachlan Coote – 9
2 Tommy Makinson – 8
3 Kevin Naiqama – 7
4 Mark Percival – 8
5 Regan Grace – 7
18 Jack Welsby – 8
21 Lewis Dodd – 8
8 Alex Walmsley – 7
9 James Roby – 7
10 Matty Lees – 7
14 Sione Mata’utia – 9
12 James Bentley – 7
13 Morgan Knowles – 7
Substitutes
16 Kyle Amor – 6
17 Agnatius Paasi – 6
20 Joe Batchelor – 7
23 Jake Wingfield – 6
Catalans
29 Sam Tomkins – 9
2 Tom Davies – 7
4 Dean Whare – 6
3 Samisoni Langi – 7
5 Fouad Yaha – 6
6 James Maloney – 7
7 Josh Drinkwater – 8
10 Jullian Bousquet – 8
9 Michael McIlorum – 6
30 Jordan Dazaria – 6
11 Matt Whitley – 8
12 Mike McMeeken – 7
17 Mickael Goudemand – 7
Substitutes
1 Arthur Mourgue – 7
8 Gil Dudson – 7
22 Joel Tomkins – 6
28 Sam Kasiano – 7
Salford Red Devils
Salford Red Devils ‘pull out’ of friendly aimed at raising funds
