MICHAEL LAWRENCE is ready to put in another top defensive display and inspire the Huddersfield Giants to Super League XVIII victory at home to Catalan Dragons tomorrow night.

The rock-solid back-row forward, nicknamed ‘Bruno ’, has been at the heart of some of his side’s best tackling stints as Huddersfield have kept up the pressure on leaders Wigan Warriors.

Earlier in the season he notched up a magnificent 52 tackles in the game at Warrington Wolves .

And in Sunday’s home win over champions Leeds Rhinos he made 38 tackles and didn’t miss any .

That’s a defensive effort of the very highest order, with Lawrence – who missed the start of the season after undergoing ankle surgery and then missed a further three games with a torn calf muscle – desperate to maintain that standard between now and the end of the season.

“I love the defensive side of the game,” said Lawrence, who has now made a successful switch from centre to the back row.

“It’s not a role that tends to capture the attention of the fans. That’s usually reserved for those who score the tries.

“But it’s a role my teammates seem to appreciate, because they know how vital your defence is to the success of the team.

“As long as they’re happy and the coaching staff are happy, that’s fine by me.

“And, of course, the key is making sure we win at the same time.

“Thankfully, that’s what’s happening most of the time.”

The Giants are expected to secure their 15th victory from 20 top-flight starts against the Dragons tomorrow (8.00), although Lawrence knows it won’t be easy.

“You’re always guaranteed a big, physical battle against Catalan,” said the 23-year-old former Newsome Panthers junior.

“But we’ll be ready for that. We’ve got the better of them already in the South of France this year, and we intend to do it again.”