Steve McNamara concerned with Catalans’ lapses in defence
Catalans head coach Steve McNamara is pleased his side picked up their third win of the season against Salford – but insists their concentration in defence must improve.
The Dragons looks on course for a much-fancied runaway win against the struggling Red Devils, racing into an 18-0 half-time advantage after tries from Michael McIlorum and Matt Whitley (2).
However, some poor defence allowed the visitors to reduce the deficit to one score midway through the second half, before Fouad Yaha and Lewis Tierney confirmed victory for the hosts in the final six minutes.
Despite moving level on point with reigning champions St Helens in the Betfred Super League table, McNamara admits his side still have plenty to work on.
He said: “I was pleased with the win. We had a solid first half but I’m still not happy with how we are defending to be honest.
“The wind was a big factor, it was huge and Salford started to play at a faster speed than what we were prepared to defend at. We got on the back foot and we lost momentum.
“We saw last week when momentum swings in a game it’s difficult to stop. Hull couldn’t stop ours last week and that’s the bit I am pleased with.
“We were on the back foot when Salford were coming back at us and we managed to stop the rot.
“It was a scruffy game in tough conditions for both teams but we reacted well and scored a couple of tries late on to win the game.
“I was very pleased with how we reacted and that aspect of the game.”
More on site
Ian Watson taking the positives from Catalans defeat
Catalans 30-14 Salford: Whitley brace helps Dragons resist Salford fightback
French Federation slams appalling treatment of referees and warns clubs of punishments