Memorable milestone for Castleford Tigers' veteran pack man Matt Cook

FOR VETERAN forward Matt Cook, his 250th career game was memorable in more ways than one.
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The former Bradford Bulls, Hull KR and London Broncos man reached the milestone in injury-hit Castleford Tigers’ epic 34-30 victory at Warrington Wolves.

And he admitted to do it in such an outstanding team performance was extra special.

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“To get a win – and a win like that when you’re massive underdogs – in my 250th game is something I’ll cherish and remember for the rest of my days,” Cook enthused.

Matt Cook, who made his 250th career outing in Tigers' against-the-odds win over in-form Warrington.Matt Cook, who made his 250th career outing in Tigers' against-the-odds win over in-form Warrington.
Matt Cook, who made his 250th career outing in Tigers' against-the-odds win over in-form Warrington.

“It was brilliant, awesome. They were in form, playing well and playing some good football and it’s always a tough challenge to go to Warrington, so to go to their backyard and get a result is fantastic.”

Still without Man of Steel Luke Gale, plus fellow pivots Jamie Ellis and Ben Roberts, Tigers lost hooker Paul McShane and last year’s leading try scorer Greg Eden to injury before the match.

Youngster Calum Turner was drafted in at full-back, Quentin Laulu-Togaga’e made his debut out of position at stand-off and Mitch Clark was called up for his first Tigers appearance off the bench.

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All three contributed to the victory, with Turner scoring a try and six goals – from as many attempts – and Laulu-Togaga’e also crossing the whitewash.

Tigers' new signing Quentin Laulu-Togage'e stepped up to the plate at short notice. PIC: Matthew MerrickTigers' new signing Quentin Laulu-Togage'e stepped up to the plate at short notice. PIC: Matthew Merrick
Tigers' new signing Quentin Laulu-Togage'e stepped up to the plate at short notice. PIC: Matthew Merrick

“Q had less than a week’s training with us and a fair bit of that when he first came in it was for full-back,” Cook said of the 33-year-old Samoan, who was signed from Betfred Championship side Halifax.

“So to get slotted in at starting half-back probably not knowing our plays 100 per cent or even some of the calls of our plays, he stepped up and was fantastic.

“Cal came in and did a job at short notice and the boys really did us proud.

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“It shows strength in the squad. We’ve always had big squad the last few years at Cas and we’ve got a big squad this year with loads of depth.

“Anyone can step on to the field and and do a job for us if the attitude is right. Now we look forward to Hull KR on Sunday and we’re looking to build on it. We know we have to go again.”