Steve McNamara criticises ‘disrespectful’ Huddersfield following alleged comments
Catalans coach Steve McNamara accused Huddersfield of disrespecting his club by claiming French teams “bring nothing to the game”.
McNamara, speaking after his side gained a last-minute 13-12 victory over the Giants in Perpignan, was angered by comments allegedly made by Huddersfield in talks with IMG.
“It was a real gritty performance against a team that I think don’t give us any respect at all,” said McNamara.
“There is talk this week of Huddersfield saying French teams give nothing to the game in talks with IMG and that French teams should not be in the Super League competition, which is an absolute disgrace.
“What the Catalans have brought to this competition in 16, 17 seasons is on a par with what some of those clubs have brought in 100 years.
“It’s a terrible attitude towards our game and one aspect of the disrespect their club has shown us over a number of times recently, their opinion and attitude towards expansion and French teams in the competition.
“I just think the disrespect shown to us, by Huddersfield in particular, is not what the game needs.
“People talk about the game being together but it’s bulls**t, it’s about every man for himself.
“I hope IMG get hold of this and look at it from a really broad perspective and do what is right for this game so that we aren’t an M62 corridor game in a 100 years’ time or that there isn’t a game, and don’t listen to small-minded people that have their own self interest at heart.”
Thewlis responds to Steve McNamara comments
Huddersfield managing director Richard Thewlis told PA: “I have no idea how the Catalan coach would know what I have said to IMG, given I only met them for the first time last week in a group Super League meeting.
“How their Catalans representative interpreted the feelings of the confidential meeting is his prerogative but I would suggest it is better these discussions remain private and we allow all to give their views honestly and we allow IMG to formulate their recommendations having taken soundings from all stakeholders which I am sure they will.”
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