FIRED-UP captain Ben Roarty believes the Giants have what it takes to beat holders St Helens in Sunday's Challenge Cup fourth-round clash at the Galpharm (3.00).

The Giants felt the full force of Saints' Cup power last April when they were destroyed 46-6 in Huddersfield's first semi-final appearance for 33 years.

But Roarty believes that will count for nothing on Sunday, with his side going into the contest in confident mood after two convincing Super League victories over Easter.

And with the Giants having given St Helens a major scare a month ago, when the visitors can count themselves unlucky to have lost 34-24, Roarty knows Huddersfield will be up for the challenge.

"To be the best, you've got to beat the best. And we want to be the best," declared the 28-year-old Australian.

"The boys have spoken briefly about last season's Challenge Cup defeat.

"But a lot has changed since then. We're now a far better side, and although everyone is well aware of how good St Helens can be if you let them play, we don't fear them.

"And that's particularly the case after we played them at their place last month.

"If we hadn't given them a head start we're convinced we would have beaten them.

"That's something we can focus on. That performance showed we have what it takes to match them."

Roarty is hoping home advantage will also prove decisive this weekend.

But he believes the key could be the presence of fit-again Michael De Vere, who missed the St Helens game but made a successful debut in Monday's 26-12 triumph over Salford.

"Michael showed what a class act he is and his debut gave the whole side a massive lift," added the back-rower.

"Having him in the side on Sunday is bound to help."