Rugby League | St Helens 42 - 0 Catalans Dragons

St Helens cruised past Catalans Dragons

Teenager George Whitby delivered a standout performance as his side secured a dominant Super League victory.

Author - Jamie P

Whitby, who turns 19 this weekend, scored a hat-trick of tries and landed six conversions from seven attempts to finish with 24 points. His composed display helped Saints to only their third win in eight league matches, reigniting hopes of a strong second half to the season.

Tries from Alex Walmsley, Deon Cross, Tristan Sailor and Lewis Murphy added to the one-sided scoreline at the Totally Wicked Stadium, in a match that brought back memories of the club’s 2022 Grand Final-winning campaign.

The result intensifies scrutiny on Catalans Dragons boss Steve McNamara, whose side has now suffered three consecutive defeats. The former England coach is also facing an RFL investigation following critical remarks made after last weekend’s Challenge Cup semi-final defeat to Hull KR.

Both clubs began the season with top-two ambitions but have struggled to find consistency. Catalans had won five of their previous seven Super League games, but it was St Helens who looked sharper from the outset.

Whitby crossed within two minutes, racing through a gap created by Mark Percival’s pass and Sailor’s pace. Saints doubled their lead shortly after when Walmsley powered over from close range.

Although the Dragons briefly rallied, their efforts were undermined by unforced errors, including a string of mistakes at the play-the-ball, and a resilient defensive effort from the hosts.

Cross marked his home debut with a well-taken try before a slick move saw Jack Welsby’s reverse pass send Percival breaking through to set up Whitby’s second just before half-time.

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With the game effectively decided, Saints began to express themselves. Percival’s offload out the back of his hand released Sailor in the corner and Murphy added another with a spectacular diving finish.

Whitby completed his first Super League hat-trick late on, collecting a smart offload from Walmsley to cap a superb individual display and a comprehensive team performance.