VICTORY over Leeds Rhinos in yesterday's Super League clash would have completed a hat trick of memorable moments in a big week for big Giants prop Jon Grayshon.

First, he received news that he had gained his degree in sports studies.

The he was told he would be getting his first top-flight start of the season under Giants coach Jon Sharp.

Unfortunately, the final piece of the celebration jigsaw could not be completed as the Tetley's Super League leaders flexed their muscles.

But the 21-year-old 6ft 6in forward was still able to raise a smile at the end of his side's 42-10 Galpharm defeat.

"To have been a part of a Giants side that beat Leeds yesterday would have been the icing on the cake," reflected the former Great Britain junior tourist.

"That obviously wasn't to be, but there were still a lot of positives.

"And, personally, the game has done a lot for my confidence.

"I'd been pretty pleased with my form in recent weeks, but I was still over the moon when Jon told me I would be starting against Leeds.

"Up until now I had been restricted to six substitute appearances and had also spent a bit of time in the Under 21s Senior Academy side.

"So, to be put straight in against a team playing as well as Leeds must prove Jon Sharp thinks something about me.

"I just hope he feels the same after the way I played, because I didn't think I did too badly.

"I almost crossed for a try, but with hindsight I wish I'd passed to Junior (St Hilaire) on the outside instead. He'd have finished no problem.

"But, that apart, I think it went okay for me."

Grayshon still has a further two years remaining on his current Giants contract, and is well aware there's still a big room for improvement.

"I know after suffering a broken leg at Bradford Bulls last season it's taken me a while to get back my confidence," he added.

"But it's getting there now, although I'm struggling with a niggly quad muscle injury at the moment.

"Starting yesterday's match has certainly given me a boost and given me the hunger and desire to go on and achieve a lot more.

"With my studies now completed, I'm really looking forward to kicking on from here."