We’ve got another 2017 season review for you and today marks our first forward as Craig Kopczak takes centre stage.
Kopczak joined the Red Devils back in 2016 and his commitment and work ethic have seen him grow into a firm favourite amongst the Salford faithful.
The Welsh international was a regular feature in the Salford side throughout last season and didn’t miss a game up until Castleford in July – the penultimate regular season Super League fixture. Despite starting the opening three games of the season Kopczak often found himself entering as an impact interchange in the middle months of the season.
And, he certainly made an impact from the bench in the Red Devils visit to the KCOM Stadium in early April. The former Bradford and Huddersfield forward came on from the bench to grab two tries in a memorable 18-54 win. Koppy was too much for the FC defence as he ploughed his way through on two occasions making him just one of two forwards to score a double for Salford this season.
Kopczak played a pivotal role in Salford’s run to the Ladbrokes Challenge Cup semi-final featuring in all four cup games and crashing over for tries against both Hull Kingston Rovers and Wakefield. In fact, Trinity must have hated coming up against the Welsh forward in 2017 as Koppy crashed over for a try in three of the four meetings between the sides.
Craig’s powerful running and hard-work saw him make more Super League metres than any other Red Devils forward. Kopczak was the fourth highest metre-maker for Salford behind Kris Welham, Greg Johnson and Junior Sa’u.
Koppy’s performances throughout 2017 were that impressive he has been named as captain of the Welsh Rugby League team for the Rugby League World Cup which begins at the end of October.
Craig Kopczak was sponsored by Jones & Brooks throughout the 2017 season.
Craig Kopczak 2017 Stats (All competitions)
Appearances: 31
Tries: 5
Fact: Craig Kopczak made more metres than any other Red Devils forward in 2017.
Craig Kopczak’s 2017 in pictures
