Cooper in test to be top of props

MIKE COOPER knows his standing as one of Super League’s top props will be tested in today’s Challenge Cup final rematch.

The Warrington man has earned rave reviews for his past two games, when he played 74 and then 80 minutes in depleted Wolves teams that beat Hull FC and Castleford.

But today Cooper will face St Helens giant Alex Walmsley, who has been trampling over rivals regularly since the season restart.

Cooper, in action above and looking to help Wolves defend the cup, said: “Any time you play, it’s in the back of your mind to get the better of your opposite number.

“That’s my job as a forward and it’s no different this weekend.

“You’d say he’s the prop to beat at the moment. I’ve got a huge amount of respect for him. I’ve played against a lot of quality front- rowers both here and in the NRL, and he’s definitely up there.

“That’s not forgetting James Graham next to him, who’s probably one of the best front- rowers the UK has ever produced.

“Me and Chris Hill have a job to do and we’ll do whatever we can to make sure we come out on top.”

Cooper, 32, says a smarter approach to life on rugby league’s front line has helped him cope with his heavy workload this month.

He added: “I had a couple of days of walking round like I’m 82, but I’m OK now.

“I’ve been playing long minutes for a while now. It’s not that uncommon for me to not come off in the first half. I feel better when I stay out there and grow into the game.”