Catalans Dragons coach Steve McNamara braced for best of Wigan Warriors after 'exceptional' start

Catalans Dragons boss Steve McNamara is braced for an almighty scrap with early-season pacesetters Wigan Warriors in Perpignan on Saturday.

Matty Peet’s cherry and whites are spending the week in the south of France following their dramatic 29-28 win over Toulouse Olympique.

The result marked their fourth successive win since Peet took charge at the start of the season and has left them joint top with bitter rivals St Helens.

Now they face a Dragons side who have looked every bit title contenders after bouncing back from their opening-day defeat at Saints with three consecutive victories.

Head coach McNamara said: “Wigan matches are always difficult and they have been a really good team for a number of years.

“They have started this season exceptionally well and, with playing back-to-back games in France, they are spending the week here.

“Warrington on Friday was our third trip to England in four weeks, and it does take its toll, so we’re having three days off now.

“The boys will rest up and recover and be ready to go on Saturday against Wigan.

“You’re always in for a tough game against Wigan and having quite a few ex-Wigan players in our side adds to the fixture as well.

“It will be good to get a big crowd and quite a few supporters over from Wigan too.

“It’s a bit warmer over in France than it is in England right now, so hopefully everyone can enjoy the occasion.”

Mike McMeeken, meanwhile, has been one of England’s star performers during the opening four rounds of the campaign.

Due to injuries and suspension, the former Castleford Tigers second-rower has been needed at prop and has thrived in the role.

McMeeken was part of England’s World Cup squad in 2017 and McNamara was asked whether the Hampshire-born star could