Bulls duo Craig Kopczak and Elliot Kear have been tipped to shine at Wembley tomorrow as Wales look to cause a major upset against New Zealand.
The pair have been named in Wales’ 19-man squad to face the Kiwis in the first match of the Gillette Four Nations double-header (1pm).
England then play Australia in a 3.30pm kick-off and a bumper crowd of up to 50,000 is expected to descend on the national stadium.
The occasion promises to be the biggest moment in the fledgling careers of homegrown Bradford prop Kopczak and new recruit Kear, both of whom impressed during Wales’ opening defeat against England last week.
Speedy winger Kear, signed from Crusaders, grabbed Wales’ only try and former Dudley Hill amateur Kopczak continued his outstanding club form with a fine display.
Now they are aiming to underline their credentials further as Iestyn Harris’ men seek to claim a shock victory against the New Zealanders.
Kopczak, 24, was named player of the year at Odsal in 2011, a remarkable feat given that his father Andy lost his battle with cancer in March, aged just 43.
Bulls chief executive Ryan Duckett said: “Craig has had a tremendous year in what was a very difficult time for him personally after losing his father.
“But he has showed outstanding resolve to continue performing and he got better and better as the season went on.
“Judging by his display against England last week, he looks to have taken his club form onto the international stage and that is testament to Craig’s fantastic attitude and indeed his ability.”
Kear, who can also play full back, recently penned a three-year deal with the Bulls after turning down an offer from Widnes.
The Cardiff-born wing, 22, rose to prominence with Crusaders but left the Wrexham-based outfit in the wake of their financial woes which forced them to quit Super League.
Duckett said: “Like Craig, Elliot Kear has a great attitude and is clearly someone who is hungry to succeed.
“He took his try against England very well and was also sound defensively, so hopefully him and Craig can maintain their form for Wales this weekend and continue it into next season for the Bulls.
“We wish both players the very best of luck for this weekend’s game.”
Meanwhile, Bulls forward Olivier Elima is set to skipper France in their clash against Ireland in Limerick tomorrow.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel