Steve McNamara: Catalans Dragons ready for 'top of game' St Helens

Catalans got the better of Saints in the 2023 play-offs to reach a second Super League Grand Final

Catalans Dragons are ready for a "top of their game" St Helens as the Super League's top-two meet in Perpignan on Saturday, says boss Steve McNamara.

The Dragons knocked Paul Wellens' side out of the play-offs last autumn, with Sam Tomkins starring as the Dragons made it to Old Trafford's Grand Final.

Both sides have started this season in good form, with 10 points apiece.

"It showed us a lot about their club," McNamara said of the 2023's play-off victory on home turf.

"There was a lot of talk before the season about who were the favourites.

"They'd won the past four Grand Finals, they came to us in the semi, they took the game to the last second and it would have been easy for them to think it might be too hard that year but it showed the quality.

"I knew this season they would be at the top end of their game, and they've shown themselves to be so far."

McNamara's side were beaten by Wigan in their 2023 Grand Final, their second appearance in three years.

The first coincidentally came against St Helens, when just two points were the margin.

"I think we're in for another close game," Saints boss Paul Wellens added. "They tend to be close games when we're against Catalans, we're preparing for a tough game but we go there in good form and confidence."

Alex Walmsley has been in destructive mood of late as St Helens have begun the season with five wins from six in the league

While the game will be live on BBC Three this weekend, there are around 1,200 Saints fans who have made the trip to Perpignan for the game.

Visits to the south of France have become an enjoyable sideshow for fans, who get to sample a different matchday experience to their usual excursions to Castleford, Huddersfield or Warrington.

"It's unbelievable, our fans seem to enjoy that trip,"

"You go there and it's the sunshine, having a few beers in the city centre and it makes for a great atmosphere.

"We as a club are extremely grateful for the support we get, we understand work a lot and know they spend a lot of money to follow the team around."