BIG Eorl Crabtree is making a habit of coming off the substitutes' bench and helping to lift Huddersfield Giants.

But his impact has never been as great as it was against Warrington Wolves yesterday.

When the 21-year-old entered the fray in the Super League showdown, Warrington appeared to have gained the upper hand and the Giants were struggling to get into their stride.

But within minutes of Crabtree's introduction midway through the opening half, the balance of power began to shift.

Crabtree was punching holes through the previous watertight Wolves defence and the foundations were being laid for the Huddersfield victory charge.

And, not surprisingly, the modest Crabtree was delighted by his contribution.

"I'm enjoying this new substitutes' role under Jon Sharp," he said.

"Whenever I come on I aim to make an impact, and so far I've been delighted with the way it's been going both for myself and the team.

"But I have to admit that the effort I put in against Warrington is my most satisfying yet. I was really pleased with the way it went.

"Warrington are a quality side with plenty of quality players, such as Lee Briers.

"So you know that if you are going to put yourselves in a position to beat them, you are going to have to be at your best, particularly over at their place, and we did just that.

"I thought the way we responded after last week's (Challenge Cup semi-final) defeat against St Helens was fantastic, and I hope this performance helped to put a smile back on the faces of the fans. It's certainly put a smile back on ours."

The performances this season of Crabtree have without doubt gone down well with the Huddersfield faithful, and he is delighted his efforts on the training field are paying off.

"I'm now a lot fitter and leaner than I've ever been, thanks in no small part to the work of conditioner Jason Davidson," added the former Huddersfield YMCA junior.

"That's given more far more confidence, and I now believe I can go out there onto the field and mix it with the best in Super League.

"I know there are still improvements that need to be made in my game, but I'm thrilled with the progress I'm now showing.

"The current coaching staff do give you confidence in your game - they tend to concentrate more on your positives than your negatives - and I'm loving working under them.

"And the results are, of course, speaking for themselves."