Nathan Mason's rock-solid showing against St Helens has underlined the value of the Giants’ dual-registration link with Oldham.

That’s the view of Huddersfield head coach Paul Anderson after watching the 21-year-old prop hold his own during Friday’s heartbreaking 35-34 defeat.

Mason marked just his second Super League appearance in three years with a couple of strong spells to show how much he has developed since making his one previous top-flight appearance at Bradford Bulls in 2013.

And Anderson thinks the chance for the youngster to play regularly at hometown club Oldham has played a significant part in his development.

“I think the dual-registration with Oldham has worked well for us, and I hope it’s worked well for them,” said Anderson.

“Nathan has gone to Oldham and been able to play regularly at a very good level, which is something we’re obviously not in a position to offer him at the Giants at the moment.

“Even though it’s not Super League, that time at Oldham meant he was match fit to play at Saints the other night.

“As a result, I thought he contributed well for us and was able to handle the occasion.

“He showed the other night how much his game has developed since he made his debut at Bradford in 2013.”

Jake Connor may not be in contention for the Giants trip to Perpignan to face Catalans Dragons on Saturday.

Connor was a try scorer – as was clubmate Jacob Fairbank – in Oldham’s 38-18 League One win over derby rivals Rochdale Hornets but was taken off through injury.