Tommy Makinson: St Helens ‘excited for big game’ in Challenge Cup

St Helens winger Tommy Makinson says that he and his team-mates are excited for another big game against newfound rivals Catalans in the Challenge Cup this weekend.

The two sides battled it out last year as the Dragons pipped Saints to the League Leaders’ Shield following a sensational comeback win at Magic Weekend before their roles were reversed in the Grand Final. The two sides now come toe-to-toe again in the cup quarter-finals.

Makinson – with the Red Vee since 2011 – earned himself 10 minutes in the sin bin for a high try-saving tackle towards the end of that Grand Final at Old Trafford, lifting the trophy for the third season running.

And now in the hunt for a second Challenge Cup in his time with Saints, Makinson is relishing a trip over the Channel once more.

Tommy Makinson: ‘We know that we’re going to be challenged’

“This game coming is our biggest of the year by far and it’s against a great Catalans team as well,” Makinson said.

“We’re all looking forward to a big game and a big crowd. Every time that we seem to play them, it’s always a belter of a game. I think it’s just two real exciting teams, both coached really well. It’s just a great advert for rugby league.

“As a player, you’re playing in these games that are so exciting and I know it’s not only us, but they’ll be also excited too. I think it’s one of the most exciting places you can go to.”

St Helens ready to go says Makinson

In the last round, Saints ran out comfortable 46-4 winners at Championship outfit Whitehaven, where Makinson played a game on loan in 2013.

The winger kicked seven goals against Haven. He admits the side were eager for the Dragons game to come around once their opponents had been confirmed. He added: “As soon as we saw the draw, we knew it was a nice one and that we’d go over there where they’re at their best.

“We know that we’re going to be challenged but that’s what we always speak about, facing the challenge head on. We’ll go into it doing what Saints do best and that’s by putting our best foot forward and performing. We know how big a game it is, we know the challenge and it’s exciting.

“We’ve won the cup last year, but it’s totally different now. A totally different set and feel of a different competition. We’re ready to go.

“This weekend is all over the BBC and all over French TV as well. It’s only good for our game and it’s at a venue where we certainly enjoy playing at.”

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