GIANTS coach Jon Sharp is set to throw down the gauntlet to Stuart Donlan to prove he should be made Huddersfield's first-choice full-back.
Donlan has been pencilled in to take over from the injured Paul Reilly (ankle) for Sunday's big Super League clash against leaders Leeds Rhinos at the Galpharm Stadium (4.30).
There's still an outside chance Reilly could recover from the knock that forced him to hobble off during the opening moments of the 50-10 defeat at St Helens on Friday night.
But Sharp believes Reilly's expected absence could leave the door open for Donlan to take full advantage.
"Paul Reilly has proved over the past few years that he is one of the best full-backs in Super League," said Sharp.
"But Stuart Donlan has shown when he's played for us in that position that he's also right up there with the best.
"Stuart has been one of our most consistent performers this season, but has not really had a settled slot.
"I know he would love a crack at playing for us at full-back on a regular basis, and there's a chance this could be the moment for him to strike. It could be the chance for him to prove a big point.
"We certainly haven't ruled out Paul for definite this weekend, but it's not looking good for him right now."
Huddersfield go into this Sunday's game against Leeds as massive underdogs.
But Rhinos coach Tony Smith may have provided his former club with the extra motivation they need to put on a top show.
After Leeds were made to work hard for a 46-28 home win over Wakefield on Sunday, Smith tipped Trinity to finish ahead of the Giants and claim the sixth and final play-off spot.
"My heart tells me to say Huddersfield, but my head says Wakefield," said Smith.
"If Trinity carry on playing like this and claiming the top scalps I can see them making the play-offs."
* Frank Watene, the Giants' schools development officer, will be the guest speaker at the Senior Giants meeting at Fartown Supporters Club tomorrow (2.15).
