SO CLOSE!

Sep 24 2007 by Chris Roberts, Huddersfield Daily Examiner

SO CLOSE!

GIANTS chief Jon Sharp is convinced his players will come back stronger as a result of their first taste of Super League play-off action.

A shaky start proved costly as the Giants were eventually beaten 22-16 and missed out on a home clash against Wigan at the next stage.

Huddersfield fell 10-0 behind after 11 minutes as nerves took their toll.

And Sharp has no doubt the Giants will be better for the experience in the seasons ahead.

“All week we spoke about the need to stay calm and not let the emotion of the occasion get the better of us,” said Sharp. “Unfortunately, that didn’t seem the case early in the game, and in the opening quarter we just didn’t seem to be able to hold the ball.

“But once we settled down and got into our stride I thought our level of skill was fantastic. In the end, we were right on top.

“So, while it’s disappointing with how things have finished off, I have no doubt we’ll be better for the experience and will come back stronger.”

Brave battle – P44, 45 & 46.