Have said this every year for the last few years, they are unlikely to themselves, but they will have a big say in who finishes in what position

Remember we've had injuries all year too and currently have about 6 or 7 first team players out!

But you have been missing nobody of the stature of Todd Carney, Scott Dureau, John Zebolon Ta'ia or Morgan Escare. Those four, along with Ian Henderson and Eloi Pelissier, are the key to Catalans winning or losing.

One prediction: soon we will all be talking about the barnstorming runs and tries scored by the massive 18 year old winger Mouad Yaha.

Probably when he's moved into the second row.

But they still put out a team of full time professionals, several of whom are internationals, and struggled to overcome a team of part-time players. Regardless of who they were missing, it was professionals versus semi-pros.

Don't underestimate the damage that occurs when a team loses its two star play makers, hooker, and two top back rowers. The coach erred somewhat in his selections, even though the replacements narrowly came home with the bacon.

The proof is what happened the following week, when a nearly full strength Catalans devastated and humiliated the full time professional team from Wigan.

The way their going a.t.m, they could get dragged into in the middle eights!

Imagine the furore if the second expansion club fell out of S.L in the space of two seasons

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What are the excuses this week Jean?

I dont think its anything to do with this week specifically. We havent looked good all season, Wigan (h) excepted we have failed to convince.

Pretty similar to last season but we did start firing by this time to make our run to the semis.

I agree the middle 8s looks a prospect with two away matches out of three and no sign of an away win.

I called it weeks ago. Catalans will be playing in the middle 8's.

I don't see them picking up a point from their remaining 3.

If Hull beat Cas and KR beat Salford this week I reckon they're done for.

Well the points difference and fact there is a Hull derby followed by two unwinnable fixtures mean that I don't think either Hull club will gain more than 3 points.

1 win will secure Catalans top 8, but even 3 losses might see them remain 8th.

The PD between Hull and Catalans is 19. That could well be in Hull's favour by weekend if we win and they lose. I think it's unlikely that 3 defeats will see them home.