Eorl Crabtree has warned his Super League opponents the Giants will pack an even bigger punch in 2014.
Although Huddersfield finished the season top of the table for the first time in 81 years, their success was achieved with an under-strength set of forwards.
Former Australia Test forward Luke O’Donnell returned home after making just one senior appearance and wasn’t replaced, while prop Stuart Fielden was restricted to nine games and second-rower Jason Chan missed half the season with bad knee and biceps injuries.
But with the recruitment of front-rower Antonio Kaufusi and experienced back-rower Chris Bailey from London Broncos, Crabtree believes the Giants of 2014 will be better equipped up front.
“Last year was pretty tough on the front-row boys,” said the 31-year-old, who shared a lot of the prop responsibilities with Craig Kopczak.
“But I think the arrival of Antonio, in particular, will help us a lot in that respect.
“Both he and Chris have shown in their short time here that they’re quality players and will make us an even stronger pack next season. The signs are already suggesting we’ll be tougher to beat next year.”
