JON SHARP has enjoyed a good first season as head coach of Huddersfield Giants.

He helped guide the town's rugby league club to the semi-final of the Challenge Cup for the first time in 33 years and a highest ever finish of seventh in Super League.

But Sharp's success as a coach continues, even though the season for the Giants finished over two months ago.

As a member of the Great Britain coaching team involved in this autumn's Gillette Tri-Nations series, Sharp was instrumental in the Lions' superb 24-12 triumph over Australia.

The Kangaroos may be acknowledged as the greatest side in world rugby - in Australia rugby league is widely regarded as the No1 sport - but Lions assistant coach Sharp was on hand to help plot their downfall.

It was a proud moment for the Huddersfield coach, who admitted it was one of his greatest days.

"I've had a fantastic year with the Giants and enjoyed so many great moments," said Sharp.

"But I'm delighted to say the positive memories are now continuing with Great Britain and the highlight so far was obviously the victory over Australia.

"We had come close to beating them in the opening Tri-Nations match in Manchester a fortnight before when we were beaten 12-8 by a last-minute try.

"But we learned a lot from the way we played that night and used that to our advantage at Wigan last week. Fortunately, everything went according to plan.

"Looking back on the game, what really sticks in my mind is how patient the boys remained throughout the game.

"The Australians threw almost everything at us, but we kept our composure and were able to bide our time.

"When they fought back to 18-12 we knew we needed to hold our nerve, and that our chance would come. And wasn't it fantastic when it did!"