HARDMAN Dave Furner is expecting Leigh Centurions to provide Wigan Warriors with as stern a test as any of the top Super League sides writes David Magilton

The local rivals come face to face in the Kellogg's Nutri-Grain Challenge Cup quarter-final at Hilton Park on Sunday and Wigan's big second-rower says he is relishing the contest.

"Leigh are looking forward to the challenge as much as we are," the Aussie confessed. "They rested a couple of players last week and are ready to go.

"I have been told there is a big rivalry between the two teams and the place is sold out so there should be a great atmosphere."

The former Australian Test ace is used to big games but is as enthusiastic as ever and says he has as much determination as ever.

"I am desperate to get out there and play. It is a big occasion and both teams will lift themselves 30 per cent.

"You look forward to playing at your best when you take on the best and Leigh will be no different. I haven't watched any of Leigh's games but we will be very well prepared on the day. We are looking forward to the game. It is a Challenge Cup game. Last year we only had one shot and lost so now we are very much alive and want to stay that way.

"It was disappointing losing the Bradford game on the opening day of the Super League season but we worked pretty hard against London last week and are now focusing on Sunday's game."

"We are gelling pretty quick in key areas and it is exciting we have so many good players. I struggled a little bit with asthma early on but I am over that and now raring to go."