CATALANS MATCH PREVIEW | CHALLENGE CUP

Lets take an in-depth look at who stands in our way of a potential semi-final appearance in the Betfred Challenge Cup, Catalans Dragons.

THE STORY SO FAR 📖

Both Huddersfield and Catalans will look to make it into the semi-finals of the Betfred Challenge Cup on Saturday, with a huge contest at the Stade Gilbert Brutus awaiting both teams. Catalans are the form team in the Super League competition, coming off the back of a hard-fought win over St Helens, 14-8.

The Giants also come into this game on good form, with three victories in their last three in all competitions, two wins over Hull FC and London, with plenty of points scored in the process leaves the Giants full of confidence a victory can be secured, although it will be their toughest test yet.

Adam Swift will look to continue his good form, with eight tries in his last three games and being named in the squad for Saturday, will be eager to play.

The Dragons are unbeaten at the Stade Gilbert Brutus in 2024, and Ian Watson and his side will be looking to be the first side to claim a victory in Perpignan, with their only defeat of the season coming in Leeds at AMT Headingley.

It was a 4-40 victory over Betfred Championship side Halifax Panthers for the Dragons in Round 6, with a 50-6 victory for the Giants at the John Smith's Stadium for the Giants, as Adam Swift and Sam Halsall both completed their hat-trick of tries on that day.

THE OPPOSITION 🐉

Catalans, as described above are one of the favourites for the competition, and also in Super League, leaders of the competition and a feared team.

Since taking over, Steve McNamara has seen them win the Challenge Cup, reach two Grand Finals and numerous top six finishes, turning them into one of the most consistent sides within Rugby League.

After an off-season which saw numerous changes within their playing ranks, it hasn't hampered their form, as they have continued where they left off as they strive for a better cup campaign, after they exited the competition to Warrington Wolves last time out.

Giants fans will recognise a familiar face within the ranks of the home side, as Theo Fages returned to France upon the conclusion of the 2023 season, and signed for Catalans Dragons and has enjoyed his time so far, taking the Number 7 shirt and playing alongside Jordan Abdull and Jayden Nikorima.

WHO TO WATCH 👀

• Tom Davies - The speedy winger crossed for a first-half hat-trick last time out in the Betfred Challenge Cup, and will be looking to continue his good form in the Cup.
• Chris Satae - Formidable forward Satae has impressed the Dragons faithful so far with his go-forward and striking ability in the pack after his move from Hull FC.
• Arthur Mourgue - Full-back Mourgue sustained an injury last time out vs the Giants, so will be looking for a good performance and has started the season in excellent form.

TICKETING INFORMATION 🎟️

Supporters can buy their tickets from the Catalans Dragons website using this link, if you are making the journey over.

SQUAD NEWS 💪

The Giants that will make the journey to Catalans have been selected and there are some changes to the squad, as Olly Wilson recovers from a failed HIA, Elliot Wallis returns to the squad.

LUKE ROBINSON & ASHTON GOLDING PREVIEW 🗣️

Assistant Coach Luke Robinson & Ashton Golding both spoke to the media ahead of our game on Saturday evening, with them covering a number of topics, which GiantsTV members can view below.

WATCH HERE!

WHAT KIT WILL WE WEAR AT THE STADE GILBERT BRUTUS? 🟠

It's the return of our traditional Claret and Gold colours this weekend, as we wear the same colours that brought us home the victory in 2023, the Giants will sport our Home Shirt in Perpignan.

HOW CAN I FOLLOW THE GAME 👇

Giants club social media accounts will keep supporters updated, with team news and match updates throughout the game, the main hub for this is X (Formerly Twitter). Follow us on: Twitter |Facebook | Instagram

Highlights will be available on our YouTube channel 24 Hours after the game, alongside a Full-Match replay on GiantsTV for subscribers to enjoy.