An altercation between Hull KR’s Mikey Lewis and Leeds Rhinos’ Harry Newman at Allegiant Stadium, Las Vegas.
Paul Cooke reckons Hull KR hotshot Mikey Lewis could “learn a thing or two” from Leeds Rhinos rival Jake Connor following the one-sided Las Vegas contest.
The former Hull FC and Hull KR star has heaped praise on Connor’s transformation since his move to Leeds Rhinos – and working under seasoned boss Brad Arthur at Headingley Stadium.
Connor, 31, scooped the prestigious Man of Steel award after a sensational 2025 campaign, steering Leeds to their first home play-off since 2017. And according to Cooke, the playmaker’s new-found maturity off the field is fuelling his brilliance on it.
“It’s funny with Jake – I’ve written about his petulance before,” Cooke admitted on All Out Rugby League’s Back Ten. “He’s coaching in the amateur game now and it’s maturing him.
“He’s got a young son, his life is settled and non-chaotic. What you’re seeing on the field now is a cool, calm demeanour because everything around him is right. I think Mikey Lewis could learn a thing or two from him.”
Connor underlined his class with a Vegas masterclass, inspiring Leeds to a 58-6 demolition of Rovers on the biggest stage – and potentially putting himself in the shop window ahead of England’s World Cup campaign, as the RFL continue to search for the next international head coach.
“I think Jake has become one of, if not the best, organisers in the game,” Cooke added.
“He’s not doing as many maverick things as he used to. He’s a more rounded half-back under Brad Arthur – and I think that comes from his life experience.
“I can’t commend him enough because I’ve given him pelters in the past. For every good thing he did, there were times he did something daft.
“But his performance at the weekend was outstanding. He’s not getting involved in the push and shoves anymore — and that’s credit to both Brad Arthur and Jake for the way he’s grown up.”
