PROUD Giants coach Jon Sharp has heaped praise on his players for the character they showed in overcoming Wakefield to move to third in the Super League table.

Yesterday's hard-fought 24-17 Belle Vue triumph made it five wins from six top-flight starts for Sharp's side.

They face another massive test of that character on Friday night when they take on Leeds at Headingley in front of the Sky TV cameras.

That will be the Giants' third match in seven days.

But Sharp believes his squad has what it takes to rise to the occasion.

"I have nothing but praise for what my players are doing right now," said a proud Sharp.

"Time and time again they are being put to the test, and time and again they pass those tests with flying colours.

"Hopefully, it will be the same again at Leeds on Friday night.

"It's going to be another tough ask, but we're getting used to that.

"To be honest, I think it's disgraceful we're having to play three games in seven days . It shows a lack of respect for the players.

"But there's not much we can do about it, we've just got to get on with it.

"Yet if the players show the same level of commitment that was on display at Wakefield when they go to Leeds on Friday, I'll be happy.

"I thought the way the boys ground out the win against a good Wakefield side was tremendous.

"The defensive effort, in particular, was outstanding. Wakefield threw everything at us.

"But we maintained our composure and kept our nerve, and eventually gained the ultimate reward.

"It was a win the players thoroughly deserved for the amount of effort they put in."

Sharp has already made it clear he will field as strong a side as possible for the trip to Leeds.

St Helens, the Giants' Challenge Cup semi-final opponents on Sunday, April 25, sent a weakened side to Bradford Bulls yesterday and were emphatically beaten as a result.

Coach Ian Millward rested most of his top stars, clearly with one eye on the Cup tie.

But Sharp's initial reaction is not to go down a similar path.

"Even though the schedule is punishing, the boys are buzzing and the game can't come quick enough for them," added Sharp.

"I'll obviously take a close check on everyone, but I get the impression no-one wants to miss out on Friday."