Proud Josh Johnson couldn’t have asked for a better belated birthday present!
Just days after turning 19, the Oldham-born prop was told he would be making his Giants’ Super League debut.
And he then celebrated the fact by producing a performance which proved he has the potential to compete at the highest level as Huddersfield strolled to a 46-4 top-flight triumph over Salford City Reds.
Johnson came on as a second-half substitute and got a rock-solid 20 minutes under his belt, which was highlighted by his key role in setting up a try for Jamie Cording.
The youngster did make his first-team Huddersfield debut in the Tetley’s Challenge Cup win at Batley earlier in the season, but he admitted it was nothing compared to how he felt at playing in Super League for the first time at the John Smith’s Stadium.
“It’s fantastic to have played in Super League, because it’s something I’ve been wanting to do for a while,” said Johnson.
“And it’s crowned a really good couple of weeks for me.
“I celebrated my birthday the other week (July 25) and, a couple of days later, Baloo (coach Paul Anderson) told me to get ready to play against Salford.
“I thought that was a fantastic late birthday present, but to then make my debut in such a convincing Super League win made this last couple of weeks even better.
“To be honest, the time I spent on the field was a bit of a blur. Everything went so fast.
“But I was fairly pleased with the way I played, and the coaching staff seemed happy enough.
“I’ve now got to make sure, this is just the first of many Super League games ahead for me.”
Johnson earned particular praise for his role in setting up the first of Cording’s two tries.
He was put through a gap by Luke Robinson and showed great composure in releasing his teammate – despite the fact there was a chance he could have scored himself.
“The boys said I should have gone for it myself, because if I’d scored a try I’d have got off the naked run (for players who don’t score in the season),” he added.
“But Cordo was in the best position, and it’s a case of doing what’s the best for the team.”
