The Verdict: Hull KR edged out by Catalans Dragons as composure deserts them

Hull KR produced a spirited performance in Perpignan but came away empty-handed after Catalans Dragons edged a tight game 18-10.

Rovers were kept scoreless in the second half as the Dragons showed why they are such a difficult team to beat in their backyard.

KR reporter James O’Brien delivers the verdict from Stade Gilbert Brutus.

Form can be fickle in the early stages of the season as teams get back up to speed.

Catalans' recent record gave the impression of a side with no such issues but even they were striving for their best form heading into Friday's game, according to Steve McNamara.

It was easy to see why McNamara gave that pre-game assessment as the Dragons lost control of the match after a commanding start.

But they are a team that know how to win even when they are not at their best, something Rovers are still striving for.

Tony Smith's side had only victories over Castleford Tigers and Salford Red Devils to show for their early-season efforts.

Once again, the Robins ran into a 2021 Grand Finalist on the back of a win and it was the same result as the St Helens game, albeit in different circumstances.

KR gave as good as they got at Stade Gilbert Brutus but it was a familiar tale after losing a series of tight games against the Dragons last season.

Nevertheless, it is a positive performance to build on heading into a season-defining period.

As they did in 2021, Rovers travelled on the day of the match and it took a while for Smith's men to wake up.

The Dragons created the first opening when Mitchell Pearce put Matt Whitley through a hole but the first points came from the boot of Sam Tomkins after KR were penalised for offside.

The Robins were struggling to get out of their own half and found themselves 8-0 down