Giants coach backs Lunt role against Leeds

Jun 12 2009 by Chris Roberts, Huddersfield Daily Examiner

SHAUN LUNT is being backed to lead the Giants to a first Super League victory at Leeds Rhinos on Sunday (3.00).

The 22-year-old will take on the crucial hooker role at Headingley with in-form No9 Scott Moore on England duty in France tomorrow.

And with fellow hooker David Faiumu remaining a doubt with a groin injury suffered during last Friday’s excellent 22-6 triumph over second-placed Hull KR, there’s more pressure than ever for former Workington ace Lunt to rise to the occasion.

But Giants head coach Nathan Brown is backing this season’s new signing to come up with a quality performance as the visitors bid to replace Leeds in third place.

“Scotty Moore has obviously been a big player for us this season, but in Shaun Lunt we know we have the player capable of stepping up and doing a good job,” said former hooker Brown.

“Shaun’s never let us down and we’re delighted with the progress he has been making this season.

“Sunday will be a big test for him, but because he’s been playing some reasonable footy, I know he’ll look forward to the challenge.

“And, having said that, he won’t have the responsibility of taking on the hooker role all on his own.