Catalans praised for ensuring game went ahead after eventful day

Warrington coach Steve Price praised Catalans for their efforts in fulfilling their Super League fixtures after a hectic day for the Perpignan-club.

The Dragons only landed at Liverpool Airport just under two hours before kick-off at the Halliwell Jones Stadium after high winds forced their charter flight to divert to Toulouse.

Players had to make the two and a half hour journey from Perpignan to get the plane, and face the same problem on their way back following the 30-16 defeat.

Price said: “I thought they came with a real good energy. I’ve got to give them on behalf of Warrington Wolves a big pat on the back.

“I think they’ve only had one home game and it has been hard for them but they are just getting on with it to keep the game afloat so fair play to them.”

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Catalans coach Steve McNamara refused to use the eventful day, which also saw the late withdrawal of former Warrington back-rower Benjamin Jullien after his girlfriend went in to labour, as an excuse for their defeat.

He said: “By the time we get back, it will probably be three or four o’clock in the morning.

“It’s a great story but it’s not a reason or an excuse at all.

“The players have not been able to eat the right amounts at the right times but not one has moaned, they’ve just got on with it.

“We had a red hot crack at it and I thought we were good enough to finish the game.

“I was really critical of the physicality of the team last week but our application, effort and energy tonight was a real foundation for us to build the rest of the season back up.

“I’m frustrated because the chances were there to actually go on and win the game but Warrington showed some class at the end.”