Castleford will be delighted to have gotten back to winning ways at Huddersfield. Five defeats on the spin meant their push for a playoff spot was faltering but that result will do them the power of good.
I thought Rangi Chase was outstanding for them, as did Ryan McGoldrick. There's more pressure on Chase of course due to the Tigers' injury problems but he done well last week.
Whenever a coach signs a new contract I like to keep a close eye on that team's next game because it gives a good indication of how the players have reacted to it, and I the Tigers' reaction was sensational. They got stuck in and played their hearts out.
Castleford got back to winning ways against Huddersfield at the Galpharm Stadium
I think it showed that Terry Matterson has a job there for as long as he wants. Castleford are an improving side. Their full-back, Richard Owen, had a great game and I reckon the clash between the two full-backs will be fascinating. They're both very talented players.
Disappointing
Castleford must start as favourites in this game. Catalans were very disappointing last weekend. To go into Catalonia, to Barcelona; everything seemed right for them. But I think the occasion just got to them and they suffered a bit of stagefright.
Kevin Walters has said that the Greg Bird situation won't affect the players but there's no way it can't have. They've got to try and put that behind them.
Stevo
Quotes of the week
Castleford v Catalans
6pm, Sat, Sky Sports 2 & HD2
It really was a tremendous occasion in Barcelona though. For 18,000 fans to attend the game was a fantastic achievement and hopefully we will see a repeat in the not too distant future. Catalans will be frustrated that they weren't able to produce their best form but there's only one thing they can do, and that's to get back on the horse as quickly as possible.
Gamble
I got the impression from the Warrington game that both Jamal Fakir and Clint Greenshields weren't 100 per cent fit; I think their coach Kevin Walters may have gambled with them but it looked too early.
Of course given the occasion the players would have been desperate to be involved but I think they forced it too soon. They should be in better shape this weekend, which will be a big boost to the Dragons. Greenshields in particular is a massive player for them.
Kevin Walters has said that the Greg Bird situation won't affect the players but there's no way it can't have. They've got to try and put that behind them. It won't be easy though. The Jungle is not the easiest place to pick up two points. Walters needs his forwards to really put it up to the Tigers, something they didn't do against Warrington.
Stevo says
Home win - Castleford's home form has been poor this season, just two wins from eight. However, I think the win at Huddersfield was gotten them back on track. It won't be easy but they should get there.
Stevo's star man
Rangi Chase (Castleford Tigers) - His coach showered praise on him after the Huddersfield game and rightfully so. He was switched from hooker to half-back and done a superb job. I would be keeping him at hooker though. He's far better when he's being creative out wide rather than having a lot of responsibility on his shoulders at dummy half.
Comments (3)
- Page 1 of 1
- 1
Shaun Turner says...
Having watched Castleford for many years and kept mostof my thoughts to myself. I would just like to say to most rugby fans that said that this is just one more year of struggle for Cas, one swallow does not make a summer but it is sure nice when you win. Come on more effort on promoting good rugby played by good honest lads.
Posted 20:27 13th July 2009
Shirley Peel says...
Trouble at Castleford what a surprise! it had to happen sometime. For the last 4 or 5 years the rugby league has been manipulating results for some teams to ensure wins by having the referee give help to the team that had to win. Why do they think that supporters would keep paying good money to watch rugby when the results was known before the kick off? get back to fair and unbiased play even if that means that clubs that are'nt good enough and dont have supporters go to the wall.
Posted 13:25 30th June 2009
Sean Dixon says...
Rangi is doing the job of 2 men but he is playing behind this seasons form prop in Mitchell Sargent. Get ready for Saturday...... If the weather is dry Cas will be too hot to handle!
Posted 22:58 25th June 2009
- Page 1 of 1
- 1
Video
Recent Comments:
Matt Summersgill on The final eight
"Looks like you''ve lost your fiver Jamie. LOL I wouldnt put any money on the bulls grand final bet either mate. Come on you Rhinos 4 in a row!!!!!!!!!!!!!!... " View all comments
John Barritt on Rough and tumble
"I just hope your continued enthusiasm rubs off on the team Stevo! I think they owe us all a big game as I can't face the disappointment yet again. Come on England!... " View all comments
Mark Holmes on Sole focus
"A good analysis from Stevo. I'm a Giants' fan and rate Hull KR very strongly indeed. They are structually strong, and play at an intensity which other teams have struggled to match. In ... " View all comments
Keith Booaza on Giants steps
"Given your rubbishpredictions so far this season Stevo ;) I can honestly see a Leeds fightback on Saturday and a massive win to them. You don't become a bad team overnight if you've won... " View all comments
Liam Oates on A fitting tribute
"I think this week will be an especially gruelling test for the Wakefield Trinity Wildcats due to the loss of a great up and coming superstar who I knew personally from his junior rugby ... " View all comments
Steve Wilkinson on Saints' grand designs
"I watch rugby league every week and keep up with as much news as I can about the sport on Sky Sports. I have been looking at Stevo's blogs on a regular basis this year and every single ... " View all comments