Huddersfield Giants coach Paul Anderson expects Jake Connor to produce a performance at Leeds Rhinos tonight to justify why he’s kept his place at full-back ahead of the fit-again Scott Grix.
Although the vastly-experienced Grix is back to full fitness following major shoulder surgery and has impressed in two trial games with dual-registration club Oldham, Anderson has kept faith with the 20-year Connor for tonight’s trip to Headingley.
That’s because of the way the youngster performed in the 24-16 defeat at Wigan Warriors 13 days ago.
And Anderson expects former England Academy ace Connor to respond to the call by backing it up with another top-notch display against the Rhinos.
“Jake had his chance at Wigan and came up with a seven or eight out of 10, which warrants him keeping his shirt,” said Anderson.
“That’s obviously unfortunate for Grixy, who’s started behind Jake because of his surgery.
“Grixy has still got the squad No1 and could say he’s got the seniority, but Jake again showed at Wigan what he has to offer and that he’ll only get better with the more games he plays.
“Right now, we’ve got three quality full-back options in Jake Connor, Scott Grix and Aaron Murphy, and they all bring different things to the role.
“In the case of Jake, he contributes tries, which is clearly an important attribute, and Grixy knows he’s got a challenge on his hands to get his shirt back.
“We expect Jake to make that as difficult as possible for him.”
