Wheelchair

Catalans Dragons crowned 2024 European Wheelchair Rugby League Club Champions

6 Apr 2024

Catalans Dragons crowned 2024 European Wheelchair Rugby League Club Champions

Catalans Dragons have been crowned champions of European Wheelchair Rugby League after a dominant display against Wigan Warriors at Robin Park Arena on Saturday evening (6 April), which was shown live on The Sportsman.

At an electric Robin Park, both teams came out to a rapturous applause with the sound of Northern Soul in the background which set the scene on what turned out to be an impressive attacking display from the French domestic champions.

Despite two tries from Wigan captain Declan Roberts, the Warriors went into the break 12-46 behind following outstanding performances from England international and Catalans captain, Seb Bechara, and his teammate Jeremy Bourson - with the French international securing a hat trick just before halftime.

The Dragons started the second half just as they ended the first with both Bourson and Damien Dore eventually ending with five tries a piece to secure them a 28-68 victory and the 2024 European Wheelchair Rugby League Club Championship. 

After the game Catalans Dragons captain, Seb Bechara, said:

"Wow, what a feeling - games like today are why we all play Wheelchair Rugby League and we're ecstatic with the way that we played, we stuck to the plan, and I just can't wait for the celebrations tonight.

"I love playing Wheelchair Rugby League, I love the physicality of it and everything that comes with this game. It's fast so there are things that you can't usually catch on camera, and I was laughing with Adam Rigby at the end because we were winding each other up throughout the game.

"The crowd were making some noise, but we were prepared for that and made sure we spaced out from it and just focused on the game. The fans were taunting me when I was doing a conversion during the game, but I'm used to it!"