Todd Carney makes Catalans Dragons scary - Eorl Crabtree

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Todd CarneyImage source, Getty Images
Image caption,

Todd Carney spent a season playing with provincial side Atherton Rooster in Far North Queensland after being sacked by Canberra in 2009

Huddersfield Giants prop Eorl Crabtree says Todd Carney has turned Catalans Dragons into a frightening prospect.

Dragons captain Carney, the 2010 International Player of the Year, led Catalans to a 38-18 victory against Warrington on his Super League debut.

The ex-Cronulla, Canberra and Sydney Roosters stand-off, 28, was involved in three of the French side's tries.

"It's a little bit scary. He looked like he cruised through the game," Crabtree told BBC's Super League Show.

"He dipped his toe in the pool, he didn't go any further than that, but he still played absolutely awesome.

"With that pack, as well, leading him on, creating that platform for him and Scott Dureau, wow, they have a good team coming together."

Todd Carney at a glance

Individual honours: International Player of the Year 2010, Dally M Medal

State of Origin: New South Wales, thee appearances

International: Australia, one cap

Former top-flight clubs: Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks, Canberra Raiders, Sydney Roosters

Catalans won only four regular-season matches away from their Stade Gilbert Brutus home last season before ending Huddersfield's Super League title hopes last season with a narrow preliminary final win at John Smith's Stadium in September.

Dragons have since bolstered their side with the high-profile addition of Carney and former Queensland State of Origin centre Willie Tonga.

"Will they play well away from home? I hope not," said former England international Crabtree.

"But I expect them to do a lot better this year yet again."

Wigan Warriors scrum-half Matty Smith was also impressed by Carney's ability to make an immediate impact in the Perpignan, having not played a match since he was sacked by Cronulla Sharks in June after he appeared to be photographed committing a lewd act.

"He looks effortless," said Smith. "For someone who has not played for that long as well, you would think he would be carrying a little bit, but he looked in great shape.

"Playing like that, he will be great for Catalans."

You can see every try from every round on the Super League Show which is available on the BBC iPlayer.

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