SAINTS centre Mark Percival believes that Catalans’ visible improvement in the past eight weeks will guarantee that they won’t take Sunday’s semi-final lightly.

The Dragons have been on a storming run and will present a tough final hurdle for a Saints side seeking their first Wembley trip since 2008.

But Percival expects Saints to rise to that challenge.

He said: “We have seen Catalans’ progression from last time we played them and they were a tough side then, too and that was a close game.

“They are very physical and a big set of lads so it is always a tough one.

“But they are playing some good rugby now and I am pleased because that makes everyone ready for them as we know what is coming.”

Percival is likely to be opposite Papua New Guinea international David Meade – and is prepared for that challenge.

“I have seen him play in the NRL and have watched him over in Catalans and he is a strong ball carrier, he is very enthusiastic and is good in defence.

“He is a good player and I respect him, but hopefully I will show that respect by playing well against him,” Percival said.

Only skipper James Roby and his predecessor Jon Wilkin have appeared at Wembley in the current squad.

And that means it is a huge motivation factor ahead the game at the re-named University of Bolton Stadium.

“Individually it is a lot of lads’ targets and we have come close with the semi finals.

“It is one of those things I want to be in, but I am not looking past Sunday.

“It will be the biggest and toughest game of the year so far.

“It is a half 12 kick off, so we are going to have to be getting up early and switching on straight away.”