Smith wary of new coach factor

Tony Smith believed Catalans’ players will be out to impress new boss Steve McNamara at Warrington on Saturday.

McNamara was appointed as head coach of the Dragons earlier this week and Smith has warned his team to expect a fired-up French side this weekend.

“They’re dangerous whether they change the coach or not, but I understand the thoughts that they’ll all be trying to impress their new coach and they may well do,” said Smith.

“We’re preparing as if they’re going to play their best rugby league this week. We just need to prepare to play better and that’s just the challenge of it.

“We’ve got some encouragement from some aspects of our performance last week which was a tough game and hopefully that’ll stand us in good stead to kick on this week.

“Both teams have been inconsistent, but both teams are very capable so it’s a tough game. Hopefully we’ll get enough things right this week to make sure that we get those two points.