Discipline!

“We’re a long way from where we want to be but we’re elated about this result, we’re starting to get some rewards.”

In a turgid, stop-start quarterfinal played in front of a neardeserted John Smith’s Stadium, the Catalans were indebted to the marksmanship of Josh Drinkwater, who kicked six goals from six attempts.

“A lot of cup ties are like that,” McNamara said. “It was quite a strange atmosphere.

“You’re probably not going to enjoy that game but the important thing is to be in the next stage.

“I thought we were tough enough to get through that game. Huddersfield Giants’ Leroy Cudjoe dives in to score in the Ladbrokes Challenge Cup quarter-final against Catalans Dragons, but his side lost 20-6 to miss out on the semi-finals We’ve had it tough with a five-day turnaround so for me it was not so much tactically getting ready, it was all about being physically and mentally prepared.

“It was not a classic but we had enough energy to see us through.”

McNamara had special praise for centre Brayden Wiliame who flew back to Australia on Sunday for the funeral of his grandmother and only arrived back at noon on the day of the game.

“He was desperate to play so it was a tough call for me,” McNamara said. “He played the full 80 minutes, so I’ve a lot of respect for him.”

McNamara was also delighted with the debut of New Zealander Kenny Edwards, who was forced into action after only 16 minutes when Greg Bird went off to have a head wound patched up and displayed his versatility.

“I thought he did extremely well,” McNamara said, “He had to go out and play number six and then centre and he’s a back rower. He found a way, as did the rest of the team.”

The Giants now have to wait until Friday night and the derby trip to face Leeds Rhinos before they can attempt to put their Cup exit behind them and aim to press on in the top eight of the Super League table.