STUART Raper reckons this year's Super League is proving the toughest yet as his charges prepare for yet another mighty tussle.

Wigan should be entering tomorrow's clash with top six rivals Leeds Rhinos feeling fresh after a string of 'easy' fixtures following their Challenge Cup triumph.

But the truth is that wins over Wakefield, Widnes and Salford were not a walk in the park for the resurgent Warriors and Raper puts that down to a levelling out of the British game's top flight.

"I think it's a level playing field and there are definitely a lot of good sides this year," he said.

"London have shown they have come into their own and Widnes have really surprised a few people."

The Broncos have indeed started to live up to their potential, with impressive wins over Bradford and St Helens, while Widnes have shocked both London and Leeds, as well as coming within a point of Saints on the opening day.

Castleford have also sprung a surprise by inflicting Saints' third defeat of the season and Raper admitted he can no longer bank on two points from fixtures against so-called 'lesser opposition.'

"It's really tough to go to places like Wakefield, Widnes and Castleford. Places where people might expect you to pick up an easy two points," he said.

"It's not that simple. We know we are in for a battle when we go to those grounds because most of the top sides have been beaten by a side outside of the top six.

"So it's hard when there are no guaranteed two points but at least the playing field is much more level these days."