Catalan winger Michael Oldfield says he knew from the beginning of the season that the Dragons could go all the way to the Grand Final.
The French outfit are just 80 minutes away from a prized place in the Old Trafford title decider on Saturday October 11 (6.00pm) with St Helens standing between them and an historic first Grand Final.
Saints host the Catalans at Langtree Park on Thursday evening (8.00pm) when Oldfield, who has scored 21 tries so far this season, believes he and his team-mates will defy the formbook once again after winning at Leeds and Huddersfield in the last two weeks.
“I know we didn’t have the best start but I knew we would make the top eight and perform in the play-offs,” said Oldfield.
“We have timed this to perfection. Nobody had us down to beat Leeds and to then go on and defeat Huddersfield is awesome. Confidence is so high at the moment amongst the boys.
“Our home win against St Helens really give us a boost and kick started our performances leading into the play-offs. Everything went our way that day so let’s hope that happens again.
“We seem to have shaken off the away form hoodoo and we’re now ready to visit Langtree Park on Thursday and do the same.”
Former Manly Sea Eagles and Sydney Roosters winger Oldfield has found it tough moving to the south of France in his first season but staff and team-mates have helped along the way.
“Coming here was massive. Changing country and lifestyle was a challenge,” said the 23-year-old.
“It was hard at first coming here and having to leave nephews and nieces behind missing their development. But it’s given me chance to play week in week out and prove myself. Family and friends have been to visit. The club and team-mates have been a great help too in supporting this move.
“Summer is amazing in Perpignan and when I’m not playing I like to visit the beaches and the restaurants on the coast. The Costa Brava region in Spain is my favourite place I have visited whilst I’ve been here.
“The Dragons fans are unbelievable. They met us at midnight and in the early hours of Saturday morning to sing for us at the airport after the Leeds and Huddersfield games. It makes it all worthwhile seeing how proud they are of us and what we have achieved so far.”
