Mike Cooper injury latest as coach Matt Peet hails Wigan’s special day

Wigan enjoyed their first Good Friday derby win over St Helens since 2017, but it came at a cost as prop Mike Cooper suffered a knee injury.

The former England international was helped from the field in the latter stages of Wigan’s 14-6 win over rivals St Helens on Good Friday.

Cooper was wearing a protective brace after the match, and Peet confirmed he will go for scans on his knee in the coming days.

“We’re not too sure,” Peet said when asked about the injury to Mike Cooper.

“It’s going to need a scan, it’s his knee. Anything I’d say would just be guessing really.”

Matt Peet hails Wigan’s special day

It was the first Good Friday derby at Wigan since 2019, with 24,275 inside the DW Stadium. Its Wigan’s highest attendance for a home game since 2005.

“It’s important that we recognise that and that the lads enjoy it,” Peet said after the game.

“We didn’t talk much about the performance then, just the result. These games are just there to write your piece into history and no-one can take that away from the lads. I’m so proud of them.

“Its a big day for the club, not just the team. There are so many people working long hours and don’t have much time off to ensure days like today run smoothly.

“The club goes above and beyond, led by Kris (Radlinski, chief executive), he wants to push us up to the next level on and off the field so its just a pleasure for myself and the players to play our little part.”

Rising to the occasion

Peet was proud of his side’s display to overcome St Helens, who have won the last four Super League titles.

“I’m pleased with the performance,” he added.

“When you play champion teams you never really feel like you’ve won it until you’ve won it. They make you earn every part of it and even right at the end, we knew St Helens were capable of putting scores together.

“I’m pleased with the performance, pleased with the resilience in some patches in the recovery efforts.

“If you are ever going to compete with St Helens, then you’ve got to match them in those areas, the efforts and commitment, because thats something they do really well.”

READ NEXT: Sione Mata’utia injury blow as Saints boss Paul Wellens provides update