Home comforts can be key to solid start

JAKE Wardle believes the Super League fixture schedule has given the Huddersfield Giants an ideal chance to get off to a flying start this season.

The Claret and Gold begin the campaign with three home matches out of the opening four, with Salford Red Devils, Warrington Wolves and Hull FC all visiting the John Smith’s Stadium in the opening four rounds.

The Giants’ only travel is to Challenge Cup holders Catalan Dragons for their second match on February 9.

After a poor start to last season, which resulted in the arrival of Simon Woolford as head coach, all at the Giants are keen for the side to get off to a quick start this season as they look to challenge for silverware.

And, after an impressive first preseason display against Bradford Bulls on Sunday, Wardle believes home advantage could be just what the Giants need to start well.

“Let’s hope we can use that home advantage well with crowd right behind us and pick up a few wins,” said centre Wardle.

“That didn’t happen for us last season but we still managed to turn it around, so if we can start well and finish well this season then, hopefully, the top five can be our aim.

“Salford is going to be a tough game because they are one of those sides who can just turn it on and everything works for them, so we know we are going to have to be ready and on top of our game.

“All I can say is pre-season has certainly gone well, so hopefully we will be ready for the first game.”

Woolford has added to his squad over the winter, with the eye-catching arrivals being NRL duo Matt Frawley and Akuila Uate, while Wardle’s brother Joe has returned to