Catalan Dragons deny failing to support France ahead of England defeat
Monday 26 October 2015 19:19, UK
Catalans Dragons have denied failing to support the France team in the run-up to Saturday's heavy defeat to England.
Richard Agar's side were beaten 84-4 at Leigh, prompting the coach to question why France were not allowed to train at the Dragons' stadium as part of their preparations.
Agar also pointed out that the touring New Zealand side were allowed to use the Super League club's facilities, but Dragons chief executive Christophe Jouffret said that arrangement was made months ago.
"It's important to know that the France team was not the only team prevented from training on the Gilbert Brutus pitch during the essential pitch maintenance," he said.
"Our injured players, our reserve-grade players and our U19 players have been training for over a month at another stadium.
"We have, of course, provided our changing rooms, gymnasium and video room to be as welcoming as possible to the France team.
"The Catalans Dragons would like to wish the XIII de France all the best for their next two games against Wales and Scotland and is more than ever open to discussions to improve, in the interest of all, the results of the France national team."
