SAINTS wing Tommy Makinson is relishing Saturday's Challenge Cup quarter final in Perpignan against last year's League Leaders Catalans.

Matches between Saints and the French-based outfit have increasingly become some of the most compelling on the fixture calendar.

The blood-and-thunder nature of these clashes and tight finishes, coupled with the silverware at stake, have intensified the rivalry between the sides in recent years.

And with holders Saints keen to keep a tight grip of the trophy they won in 2021 for the first time in 13 years, it is the most important game they have played this season.  

Makinson said: "This game is our biggest game of the year by far against a great Catalans team.

"It is exciting but it will be a big game in front of a great crowd, which we are all excited about.

"We are two teams who contested the Grand Final last year. 

"And if you look at last year's Magic or the opening game of this year it seems every time we play it is a belter of a game.

"We are two exciting teams, both coached really well and with great players throughout.

"The game is a great advert for rugby league and as a player it is so exciting to play in these matches."

Video: Tommy Makinson on Catalans Dragons Challenge Cup quarter final