Bernard Guasch: I always had faith in Steve McNamara

Catalans chairman Bernard Guasch always trusted coach Steve McNamara, even when they were at the bottom of Super League.

The Dragons became the first ever non-British team to win the Challenge Cup on Saturday as they beat Warrington Wolves 20-14 at Wembley. It is the club’s first ever major trophy.

But things looked to be going in a very different direction at the start of the season. They won just two out of their opening 11 games in Super League.

And Guasch has thanked McNamara for turning around their season.

He said: “I have found the right coach for the Catalans Dragons.

“I always trusted Steve. In all the talks we have every Monday, he has always been honest.

“He will improve the team for next season and they will compete for many more years and bring maybe more trophies now.

“I’d like to thank all the directors of the Super League who 13 years ago trusted us and made the choice to invite us into the competition.”

Guasch believes the Challenge Cup victory could make rugby league more popular in France.

He added: “It’s huge for French rugby league.

“It’s like a new start. From now we have to work together to benefit from the boost of the win. It’s historic.”