Tyrone May believes Catalans can “stay at the top for a long time”

New Catalans signing Tyrone May believes the Dragons have the potential to stay as one of the top teams in Super League for years to come.

Samoa international May will experience Super League for the first time in 2022 after joining Catalans on a one-year deal from NRL champions Penrith Panthers.

Steve McNamara’s side won their first piece of major silverware in 2018 when they lifted the Challenge Cup at Wembley.

And then in 2021 they clinched the League Leaders’ Shield. The Dragons fell short to St Helens in the Grand Final at Old Trafford.

Speaking to the club’s YouTube channel, May said: “I feel good. I had a long flight over here but it was good to finally touch down and meet everyone. Everyone has been so welcoming, it has been an easy transition from where I was.

“The boys are a close-knit group. It reminds me of Penrith a lot because we all grew up together. I notice the French boys were very welcoming to us overseas boys and there is no divide in the group. Everyone is the same, everyone gets along. The music is pumping and there is a good vibe around the club. I can’t wait to get out there and play.

“I like it here and Mac (Steve McNamara) was at the Roosters and I heard good things about him and that he’s a good coach so it was an easy transition.

“A few of my mates have come over and transitioned into Super League and they love it. They like that it is not as media-driven so it is good to kind of relax and be able to play footy rather than worry about the other parts so thats a bonus.”

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Tyrone May sees plenty of potential in Catalans

May, who can play half-back, back-row or centre, believes Catalans can become a force in Super League.

He added: “It is a challenge but I know that this team was in a Grand Final last year and lost.

“Obviously St Helens have been dominating the last couple of years… I guess it is kind of similar to back home, there is a few teams that stay around the top.

“I think Catalans can really cement themselves as one of them teams that stay at the top for a long time.

“If they are first, second, third and they are always in the finals then they can create something good here.”

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