Four Nations cheers for Huddersfield Giants' Eorl at Galpahrm tonight

Nov 6 2009 by Chris Roberts, Huddersfield Daily Examiner

DELIGHTED Giants chief Richard Thewlis believes it will be a proud day for his club when Eorl Crabtree steps into the Test arena for England against world champions New Zealand at the Galpharm Stadium tomorrow (6.00).

The 27-year-old Huddersfield prop has again been named on the bench for England’s ‘must-win’ Four Nations clash against the Kiwis after producing an outstanding display against Australia at Wigan six days ago.

It will be the first time for decades that a player on Huddersfield’s books has competed in a major international in the town when an England win would guarantee them a place in the Four Nations final at Elland Road a week later.

And managing director Thewlis is hoping the Giants fans turn out in force at their ‘home’ venue to get behind their man and celebrate such a major occasion in the club’s recent history.

“To see a real local hero lining up for his country in his hometown stadium is an absolute delight. It’s going to be a very proud day for our club,” said Thewlis.

“To be honest, I can’t recall any occasion where this has happened in the past in Huddersfield’s sporting history.

“EorlŠis already guaranteed a place in this town’s sportingŠ memories and I think he still has his best years and games to come.

“I sincerely hope tomorrow will be one of hisŠ greatest and that everyone connected with sport in this town comes along to cheer our man on.

“I heard the roar for Sam Tomkins last week at Wigan when his name was announced and it’s down to the people of this town to replicate that and make everyone know that Eorl holds a special place in our hearts and that we are all right behind him and his England teammates.

“He produced an excellent performance against the Australians last week, which we were all absolutely delighted about at the Giants, and we know he has the ability to make just as positive an impact against New Zealand this weekend.”