Super effort

Feb 11 2008 by Chris Roberts, Huddersfield Daily Examiner

HUDDERSFIELD Giants have praised the fans for coming out in force and helping them set a new club Super League attendance record.

A magnificent 15,629 packed into the ground for the clash against champions Leeds Rhinos to smash the previous best of 12,417 set against Bradford Bulls in April 1998.

The fact the Giants failed to rise to the occasion and were beaten 30-10 in their opening game of the 2008 campaign took some of the gloss off the achievement.

But Giants general manager Richard Thewlis is hoping the crowd yesterday is a sign of things to come.

“The backing from our fans was sensational,” he said.

“Everyone concerned in making this happen should be proud of breaking this record.

“This should send out a message to everyone that Huddersfield are a credit to Super League and deserve a licence to continue in the competition when they are awarded later this year.

“Yesterday was an outstanding occasion for the competition and, of course, for Huddersfield.”

Over 11,000 of the fans were from Huddersfield, but they were unable to inspire the Giants to victory, despite tries from Rod Jensen (left) and Luke Robinson.