Demetriou prepares for Warrington clash
Keighley Cougars coach Jason Demetriou is preparing his side for what he believes will be one of the biggest games in the club’s recent history as they prepare to take on Carnegie Challenge Cup holders Warrington Wolves in a fourth round tie at the Halliwell Jones Stadium on Sunday (3.00pm).
Demetriou’s side have been in good form in Championship One so far this season but the former Wakefield Trinity Wildcats captain knows exactly how tough the challenge awaiting the Cougars will be.
“It’s a huge challenge for us and probably one of the biggest games in this club’s history,” said the player-coach. “We’re going up against the defending champions so the games don’t come much tougher than this.
“But there’s not going to be any pressure on us. We can go out there and give it our all without having any weight on our shoulder and that helps free the guys up to play their best game. We can go out and enjoy the occasion and make the most of it.
“Some of the guys here wonder if they’re good enough to make it in Super League and this gives them the opportunity to test themselves against the people at that level.
“These aren’t just the best players in Super League, they’re some of the best players in the world and I know we’ll be going out there to prove we have the ability and talent to stick with them.”
Although the Cougars don’t regularly get the opportunity to test themselves against sides of Warrington’s calibre, Demetriou says his side will approach the game as they do any other and ensure they do their research on the Wolves.
“We won’t be approaching this game any differently than a regular game,” said Demetriou. “Every team has their weaknesses and we’ll have to exploit those, but one of the biggest things for us will be trying to control the game speed because that’s the biggest difference at Super League level.
“The guys can take shots and get up quicker and play the ball quicker so we’re going to have to control things. I’ve been there and done it and know how to cope with it and hopefully that’s something that I’ll be able to pass onto the players and if I can help them by carrying the burden during the game then I’m happy to do that.
“I know a few of the players we’ll be going up against so I know what to expect and I know it will be a great game for us.”
Tickets for the Carnegie Challenge Cup fourth round contest between Warrington Wolves and Keighley Cougars at the Halliwell Jones Stadium cost from £5 adult and £5 concessions and can be purchased on 0871 6221879.Warrington season ticket holders are eligible for free entry to Sunday’s match.