GRAEME HORNE is hoping his performance for the Giants in the impressive pre-season victory against Castleford will have done enough to land him a debut in Friday’s Super League XV opener against Bradford Bulls at the Galpharm (8.00).

The 24-year-old former Hull FC utility player was one of Huddersfield’s best performers during the 28-10 triumph at The Jungle. It was a display that earned him praise from head coach Nathan Brown.

But Horne knows he must back that up with another good week’s work to guarantee a place in the Giants’ first line-up in Super League XV.

“It was a really good run-out against Cas last week, and I just hope I did enough to get picked for the Bradford game,” said Horne, who is equally at home in the back row or at centre.

“I was quite pleased with my performance. I just wanted to get away to a steady start and make sure I did the little things well, and I think I did that.

“Getting into the side is tough, because there’s strong competition for places, but I’m desperate to build on that performance over the next few weeks and show what I can do.

“The lads have made me feel welcome at the club and it’s been a good challenge for me.

“We’ve trained well all pre-season, and although I obviously wasn’t here last year, both Bumper (conditioner Mark Andrews) and Browny (head coach Nathan Brown) have both said we’re fitter now than the squad was at the same stage last season. It’s pretty exciting being around the place.”

But Horne knows that if he were to get the nod on Friday night, the Bulls will give his new club a big test.

“Bradford have recruited well and they’ll definitely pose a big problem,” he added.

“They are always a good team anyway, and with the signings of Orford and Hall, plus a few others, they will be a good team again this year.

“There’s no doubt it will be a tough challenge, but we’ve also recruited well here, and hopefully we’ll get off to a good start. We’re feeling confident.”