Dragons fire a Wigan warning
12:47pm Saturday 17th February 2007 in Wigan Warriors By Staff Sports Reporter
Wigan have been warned to expect a "white-hot" atmosphere when they help "christen" the Catalans Dragons' renovated Gilbert Brutus Stadium in Perpignan today.
The Warriors went down to a shock 38-30 defeat in the Catalans' first Super League match, which was held at Stade Aime Giral just over 12 months ago, and must now contend with the euphoria surrounding the French club's eagerly-awaited return to their spiritual home.
After spending the whole of their inaugural season ground-sharing with the town's rugby union club, there is a new mood of optimism as the Dragons kick off a new era in style.
"The French people are very proud of their heritage and for them going back to Gilbert Brutus is full of nostalgia," said Nicolas Rayer, the Catalans' chief executive.
"Rugby league was the top sport in Perpignan 30 years ago and it's our aim to get back to where it was before.
"The players were training in pre-war conditions in St Esteve but now they have got a new stadium with new dressing rooms and it's a boost to their morale.
"It's a true rugby league stadium, with the stands very close to the pitch and you can feel just about every tackle."
With around 3,000 season-ticket holders, the Catalans are hoping to match the 11,122 crowd which witnessed their memorable win over the Warriors last February and, with a host of new players, Rayer is confident his club can repeat that fairytale result.
Mick Potter's team finished with the wooden spoon in 2006 despite picking up eight wins but began the new season in confident fashion by holding beaten Grand Finalists Hull to a 10-10 draw at the KC Stadium.
"We've got a better side than last year, we're more organised," said Rayer.
The good news for Wigan coach Brian Noble is that, after kicking off the season in a snowstorm against Warrington last Friday, he can expect a firm surface with Perpignan experiencing a drought.
Noble said: "Last season's Wigan result down there will have no bearing whatsoever," he said. "It's a new season with new players.
"I have worked with Mick (Potter) and I know the sort of things he will be putting in place. They look to be working hard and that was reflected at Hull where they were unlucky not to win."
