Matterson loses finger in training accident

Castleford coach Terry Matterson lost a finger in a freak accident during the club’s pre-season trip to France.

The Australian, 42, lost his wedding ring finger as he went to retrieve a lost ball over a fence. The squad were in Perpignan training before playing Catalans as part of their build-up to the new campaign.

Matterson said: said: “The ball was kicked out of the training ground and I went to retrieve it which meant me leaping over a fence. My wedding ring caught in the fencing and tore it off.”

Amazingly he didn’t immediately realise what had happened and actually retrieved the ball before then realising the situation. Unfortunately, by the time he was able to get to the hospital it was too late to save his finger.

Terry added: “We didn’t elaborate too much last week, we were in camp and we just wanted to get on with it so we decided not to make too big a statement until I got back. Like myself the players were in shock at the time but I am very proud of the way they reacted and their performance in the game on Saturday. Andy (Hay) took over and, although not in the circumstances you would expect, it was good experience for him.

“I’d also like to thank our physio Russell Jones and another of our backroom team, Matty Merrick for their assistance and I would particularly like to acknowledge the support and help given to me by the people at Catalans, especially Sebastian Munoz.”

Castleford won their friendly game against the Dragons 14-12, courtesy of tries from James Evans, Dean Widders (2) and a Craig Huby conversion.