Aston warns Saints

Saints are top of the Super League and the Catalans near the bottom but Aston knows about shock results.

He was man-of-match when the Eagles turned over the might of Wigan 17-8 at Wembley in 1998.

Now the Cup is back at the New Wembley tomorrow in front of sell-out crowd.

Aston said. "Look at the Catalans team - it's is full of international class players from Australia and France.

"I don't think it is going to be a walk-over. A lot of people are expecting St Helens just the turn up and win the game - but a few expected Wigan to do that in 1998!"

Catalans appearance in the final is a massive boost for the 13-a-side code in France. They have reached the final after only two seasons in the Super League.

Both sides have big sets of forwards and in Kiwi Stacey Jones the Dragons have on his day the most exciting half-back in the game.

Jones delayed his retirement to play in France and his clash with Saints' Great Britain star Sean Long could be a classic

Aston said: "A big thing for the Catalans is that they beat Saints 21-0 a few weeks ago - that's a massive result - not many, if any teams, have nilled St Helens over the last few years.

Aston, who will be taking part in a parade of players who have won the Lance Todd Trophy for their performance in a final, added: "It's going to be a good final."

The game is live tomorrow on BBC TV (3pm.)