Dominant Catalans Dragons Retain Wheelchair Challenge Cup Title with Resounding Victory
The reigning champions, the Catalans Dragons, retained their Betfred Wheelchair Challenge Cup title in emphatic fashion, crushing Wigan Warriors 81-18 at the English Institute of Sport in Sheffield. The Dragons’ performance was so dominant that it is sure to cement their status as one of the best rugby league teams, in any variation of the sport.
The man of the match, Jeremy Bourson, was the star of the show, scoring four tries for the Dragons. Bourson opened the scoring in the 5th minute with an acrobatic finish, reminiscent of his club teammate Tom Johnstone’s trademark tries. He then completed a hat-trick before half-time, showcasing his individual skill and blistering pace.
“It’s great to have won it again,” said Catalans captain Sebastien Bechara. “We forced a few too many passes in the first half, but in the end it was a good performance. It’s great to be going home with the cup again.”
In between Bourson’s tries, Nico Clausells chased down his own kick to score, while Arno Vargas and Bourson added further tries to put the Dragons 34-12 ahead at the break. Wigan captain Dec Roberts and Adam Rigby scored tries to briefly reduce the deficit, but the Dragons were simply too strong.
The second half was a exhibition of the Dragons’ prowess, with skipper Sebastien Bechara scoring a hat-trick of his own. Vargas, Bourson, Dore and Nico Clausells also crossed the line, while Gilles Clausells added a cheeky drop goal to complete the rout.
England head coach Tom Coyd was full of praise for the Dragons, singling out Bourson’s “platinum performance.” Coyd noted that Bourson’s pace and ability to create space for his teammates makes him a hugely influential player for the champions.
This victory serves as a strong indication of the challenge the England squad will face when they take on France in international fixtures later this year, as they continue their preparations for the Rugby League World Cup.
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