Low-key start for Thomas

Friday 19th March 2010

Rugby Union convert Gareth Thomas made a low-key start to his Rugby League career as his new Crusaders team mates beat Catalans Dragons 14-6 in Wrexham.

The former Welsh 15-a-side captain started on the right wing but was forced from the field after just 30 minutes, in a scrappy encounter at a rainy Racecourse Ground.  Thomas appeared to jar his neck as he carried the ball into the Dragons' defence and played no further part in the match after being taken off.

"It was a tough start for me dropping the ball with the first touch", Thomas told Sky Sports after the game.

"But it was a great team erffort and a great win for us tonight.  I've been working all week trying to get a quick play- the-ball and find the floor and I just banged my head", he explained.

"I'm devastated I couldn't play the full 80 minutes but hopefully I'll get 80 minutes in next week".

And ,despite the early set-back, Thomas stressed his enjoyment of his first real taste of Rugby League.

"It's a great game, I love the game and I love the training".

The victory was the Crusaders third win of the season, meaning they have already equalled their victory tally from last season.

It was a miserable night for the Dragons who turned the ball over at key moments in the game and were forced to defend a number of line drop-outs and repeat sets.

The evening began badly for Catalans when they lost speed-machine Chris Walker prior to kick-off with an injury.