Catalans look for perfect start to season against Hull

Catalan Dragons will kick off their 2021 Super League season against Hull KR tonight at Headingley stadium.

Rovers are heading into the new season as one of the teams who are expected to be fighting to avoid relegation this season. A big two points in round one would give Tony Smith’s side the perfect start to the season.

The Dragons had a good start last season but unfortunately, they fell short in the Super League Semi Finals to St Helens. Steve McNamara’s side will have to continue the adversity of travelling over to England that they faced last season with the first two rounds set to be played at neutral venues.

The French side only began their preseason at the beginning of March, whereas Hull KR began theirs at Christmas. This could give Rovers the advantage in the closing stages where teams fitness becomes a big factor.

A lot of teams throughout Super League are suffering with injuries heading into round one, both KR and Catalans will be without a number of players themselves.

Team News

Muizz Mustapha and Will Maher are definitely missing for the Robins and it is unlikely that Brad Takairangi will make it.

The Dragons on the other hand will be leaving Micky Mcilorum, Joel Tomkins, Samisoni Langi and Arthur Romano at home, while Israel Folau is still in Australia with his return to the club in doubt.

There could be debuts for NRL recruits Albert Vete, Korbin Sims and Ryan Hall. All three should help the Robins in attack providing the go-forward they desperately missed last season.

Catalans have a big pack themselves and are used to dominating through the middle with the likes of Sam Kasiano, Julian Bousquet and new signing Gil Dudson in the side. Rovers will have to match the French side in the middle to give themselves a chance of causing Catalan’s problems out wide.

Follow us on Twitter @ProstInt