Aaron Sutcliffe takes a look at the Super League clash in Perpignan, and Challenge Cup sixth-round tie taking place this weekend.
Catalans Dragons vs Wigan Warriors
Venue: Stade Gilbert Brutus
Kick-off: Saturday 12th September, 5pm
Head-to-Head
Last Five Results:ย Wigan 46-12 Catalans (06/09/19), Catalans 33-16 Wigan (18/05/19), Wigan 42-0 Catalans (31/03/19), Catalans 6-35 Wigan (18/08/18), Wigan 25-20 Catalans (27/07/18)
Preview
This will be the first Super League game played in France since the resumption of the season, and the first where a crowd will be present as both teams look to cement their place in the play-offs at Stade Gilbert Brutus.
Steve McNamara will be without five players for the clash against Wigan with Sam Moa, Micky McIlorum, Josh Drinkwater, David Mead and Tom Davies all missing. Former Warrior Lewis Tierney returns to the side.
Adrian Lam has made four changes to the squad beaten by Hull KR last time out with captain Sean O’Loughlin, Ethan Havard, Joe Bullock and George Burgess all coming into the side. Wigan are without the suspended Ben Flower, while Liam Byrne and Chris Hankinson both miss out.
Prediction
With the final Super League standings being decided by points percentage, Catalans now top the table and will want to extend their lead at the top on Saturday. Wigan will be reeling after being beaten by basement club Hull KR last week whilst Catalans’ will hope to shake off any rustiness having gone three weeks without a game. The Dragons might just have the edge in this one.
