Hull wary of Catalans revenge mission

Hull prop Josh Bowden says they’re prepared for Catalans’ seeking revenge for their recent Challenge Cup defeat when the two meet in Super League on Saturday.

Both often described as inconsistent, they currently sit third and fourth in the league table and whoever wins here will consolidate further their place in the top five.

It is the fourth time the two sides have met in just 70 days, with this being their third and final regular season clash on top of the cup game.

They could of course meet again in the play-offs.

Bowden told the club’s official website: “I watched Catalans against London last weekend and I’m sure they will be feeling sour about that result, and they will also want revenge on us for knocking them out of the Challenge Cup.

“The first 20 to 25 minutes will be really touch and go because Catalans will want to find a response. That will determine how the rest of the game pans out.

“We’ve been in a similar situation this season where we have lost a few games in a row and I know how it feels to want to get a win, so we have to go there and expect to go up against the best Catalans side.”

Hull recorded a memorable win on their earlier visit to Perpignan this season, scoring a dramatic late try to force golden point extra time and eventually winning 31-30.

Catalans got revenge when the pair met at the KCOM Stadium, winning 37-6, but Hull ended the Dragons’ Challenge Cup defence with a 51-8 thrashing at the end of May.

There’s been a drop goal in all three meetings this season, and both sides are frequently involved with drop goal games.

There’s been one in six of Hull’s last seven games, while Catalans had a run of seven in nine prior to their recent defeats to Warrington and London.

Betfred have a successful drop goal priced at 5/2 in this meeting.