FIRED-UP Giants coach Jon Sharp is ready to see his side rise to the occasion and power into their first Challenge Cup final for 42 years.

The McAlpine men go into Sunday's semi-final showdown against St Helens at Warrington (3.15) as massive underdogs.

But Sharp is happy for his side to play that role, with all the pressure being heaped on his semi-final opponents.

"Sunday is a massive occasion for us," said Sharp, who is looking to plot the Giants' course to a final at Cardiff's Millennium Stadium on May 15.

"I'm starting to sense that among the players as the day draws nearer.

"There is nervousness in the players, but there's also a sense of excitement.

"I'm happy that's the way they're feeling right now, because that shows they're ready to go.

"You never quite know how your players are going to react in games of this importance and in front of the cameras.

"But I'm confident they will all rise to the occasion."

Sharp and St Helens coach Ian Millward will both delay naming their sides until late in the day.

That's because of injuries to key players, with Millward's main doubt surrounding inspirational scrum half Sean Long.

He is still suffering with a knee injury, although the fact he is at the centre of a betting scandal with teammate Martin Gleeson may also affect his selection.

"We've been preparing to play a Saints side with these two in the team. We probably won't know for certain until the day itself," added Sharp.

THIS Sunday will be the Giants' first visit to Warrington Wolves' new Halliwell-Jones Stadium.

To get to the ground, take the M62 to junction 9 and follow signs to the town centre A49.

Take the second exit at roundabout A49 Newton Road for approximately two miles.

Turn right onto Pinners Brow and right at the small island on to Winwick Street.

There are numerous car parks, both private and public, within easy walking distance of the stadium and are well signposted.