DELIGHTED Giants coach Jon Sharp believes his players are in great shape to face the might of St Helens at the Galpharm Stadium on Sunday.

His Huddersfield side warmed up for the big Super League showdown against the competition's form side with a nail-biting 18-16 triumph at Wakefield on Saturday.

It gave the Giants their second win in four top-flight starts in 2006.

But Sharp also believes the manner of the victory will have boosted the confidence of his players ahead of the visit of the unbeaten Saints.

"This was a great victory against a good Wakefield side," declared Sharp, who handed a debut to Mat Gardner in the absence of Michael De Vere, who was struggling with a back strain.

"We had to be at our best to beat them, and defensively I thought we were magnificent.

"We had to battle hard from start to finish to win this game, and I was proud of the character we showed. I was always confident we would finish the game strongly, and that's exactly what we did.

"But even though we needed to be at our best, I still know there's a lot more to come from this team.

"Six of the players that started this match are brand new to the side, so there's still a bit of rustiness in us.

"But we are making good progress and a win like Saturday's will do everyone a power of good.

"We're already looking forward to facing St Helens at home on Sunday, and we're looking in pretty good shape to meet them.

"It should be a special day."

Sharp was delighted with the way all 17 performed against the Wildcats, but he was particularly pleased for winger Gardner, who made a very encouraging debut.

"Mat has trained really well since he arrived here and a start on Saturday was a reward for all his hard work," added Sharp.

"We're excited about the way he is coming along."