Wildcats douse Dragons fire
Wakefield returned to third in the Super League table with a 30-10 triumph over Les Catalans on Sunday.
Last Updated: 15/03/09 7:05pm
Wakefield returned to third in the Super League table with a 30-10 triumph over Catalans Dragons on Sunday.
Even Greg Bird's early return from a court hearing in Sydney could not inspire the French to victory on their travels.
The Australian was once again used from the bench by coach Kevin Walters having made a 24-000-mile journey to England.
However, the Dragons were blown away in the second half at Belle Vue as they slipped to a fourth defeat in five outings this season.
The Wildcats were given the perfect start when centre Sean Gleeson and stand-off Tony Martin crossed inside the first 15 minutes.
Battled back
The Dragons fought back to 12-10 down at the interval, though, after replacement Jean-Philippe Baile and winger Dimitro Pelo reached the line.
Thomas Bosc added a conversion having seen Martin earlier land both his attempts at goal.
The Wildcats regained control in the second-half through Damien Blanch, Ryan Atkins and Aaron Murphy scores as they took the game away from the visitors.
A pair of Martin penalties, the second coming just two minutes from time, extended the advantage.
They finally clinched a fourth win of the season when fit-again winger Murphy picked up a loose ball on the hooter to wrap things up. Danny Brough, back in action after injury, added the extras.
The result lifts the Wildcats back into the top four - level with St Helens on eight points, two behind unbeaten duo Leeds Rhinos and Hull FC.