Catalans duo pick up knocks in win over Castleford
Photo: Allan McKenzie/SWpix
Catalans Dragons face a nervy wait on key duo Adam Keighran and Manu Ma’u after the pair suffered injuries in their win at Castleford.
The Dragons romped to a 46-22 win over Castleford on Friday night, condemning the Tigers to their 10th defeat from 12 games this season.
Catalans were relentless in the first half, scoring six tries to take a comfortable 34-6 lead in to the sheds at half-time.
The Dragons scored three tries in the first 20 minutes through Jordan Dezaria, Keighran and new recruit Matt Ikuvalu.
Alex Mellor pulled one back for the Tigers but Catalans hit back with further scores through Tom Johnstone, Keighran and Ben Garcia.
Matt Whitley and Sam Tomkins posted further scores for McNamara’s men in the second half before Castleford scored consolation tries through Bureta Faraimo (2) and Mellor.
It was an impressive display from Catalans – but it came at a cost, with Keighran (ankle) and Manu Ma’u (back) picking up knocks.
Speaking after the game, McNamara said: “It was the second tackle of the second half when Adam picked up an ankle injury.
“He will be assessed and hopefully he will be okay. We will also assess Manu Ma’u who has got a problem with his neck.”
Steve McNamara praises ‘outstanding’ Catalans performance
McNamara praised his side for the way they backed up last week’s win over champions St Helens with a professional display at Castleford.
He said: “We prepared really well and were really focused after our last game against St Helens.
“We knew we had underperformed here in recent years so the challenge was set.
“We were a little bit slow out of the blocks in the first five minutes, but after that – and for the best part of the first 60 minutes – it was a really outstanding performance from us in most aspects.
“That’s the best we have attacked all season. I thought we were really fluent and our execution was really good.”
The Dragons will turn their attention to the Challenge Cup, where they will host Warrington in the sixth round next Saturday.
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