PROUD coach Jon Sharp is hoping Great Britain's Tri-Nations triumph over Australia will herald a new golden era for the game.

And he is keeping his fingers crossed it makes the biggest impact at home club Huddersfield Giants.

Speaking for the first time since playing a leading coaching role in the Lions' stunning success Down Under, the Galpharm chief believes it's vital Britain build on the foundations of their shock 23-12 triumph.

Sharp was responsible for drawing up the Lions' defensive battle plans which held so firm against the mighty Kangaroos.

But he knows all that will be forgotten if they fail in New Zealand this weekend.

"Hopefully, what we achieved in Sydney last Saturday will just be the start," said Great Britain assistant coach Sharp.

"It was a fantastic achievement by the boys, and all credit to them for the way they performed, both in attack and defence.

"But with having responsibility for the defence, I've been particularly proud of their efforts in that department.

"In the two games so far against New Zealand and Australia, we've conceded only five tries - including two from kicks and one from an intercept, so we've not done so badly.

"But the key now is to back it up, starting against the Kiwis on Saturday.

"We all believe we are ambassadors for the British game, for Super League and, in my case, for the Giants.

"We have already proved many of our critics in Australia wrong, and we want the people back home to be proud of what we are doing and the way we are playing.

"I just hope we can continue to improve and continue to earn the respect of everyone.

"There is no doubt success in the Tri-Nations would give the British game a massive shot in the arm.

"And if the Giants reap the benefits, it would be the icing on the cake for me."