Giants looking to add to Leeds’ woe
HUDDERSFIELD Giants are hoping to keep their recent run of good form going as they travel to Headingley for this afternoon’s clash against local rivals Leeds Rhinos.
After a slow start to the season the Giants have won three out of their last four matches.
It’s been a different story for the Rhinos, who currently sit bottom of the Betfred Super League and have lost their last five games.
Simon Woolford has been able to include Paul Clough in the 19-man squad for the first time this season.
Also included is Darnell McIntosh, who earlier in the week committed his future to the club by agreeing a new deal with the Giants.
Huddersfield’s academy graduate signed a new deal to stay with the club until 2021.
“I’m from Huddersfield and came through the ranks here,” he said.
“Just because there was interest elsewhere I wasn’t going to walk away from the club.
“I think I’ve made the right decision.”
A notable absentee from the 19-man squad is Alex Mellor who scored a hat-trick in last weekend’s narrow 20-18 victory over Castleford Tigers. Lee Gaskell is the other player to drop out from last week’s squad after picking up a knock in the game.
Leeds have recalled trio Tom Briscoe, Konrad Hurrell and Brad Dwyer who were all rested from their emphatic 78-6 victory over Workington Town in the Challenge Cup last Friday.
However, the Rhinos will still be without forward Trent Merrin, who remains in Australia on compassionate leave.
Huddersfield were bottom of the table after the first month but have surged clear of the Rhinos after picking up four wins from their last six matches.
Leeds centre Hurrell admits the pressure is growing on his side.
“Obviously it hasn’t been a good start for us,” Hurrell said. “This period is very important for us if we are to start climbing up the ladder. This is a must-win game.
“Huddersfield started a bit like us but they got their form together and started winning some games.
“They’ll need to win as well so they’ll come out firing.
“We just need to match that and play the whole 80.”