HUDDERSFIELD Giants opened their Reserve Team Championship campaign in style with an impressive 48-12 triumph over Castleford Tigers at Laund Hill.

Coach Andy Procter’s side dominated from start to finish and, had they taken all their chances, the young Giants would have been celebrating an even more convincing win.

It was also a great day for half-back Thomas Hemingway, who proved beyond doubt he has fully recovered from shoulder surgery to impress in the unaccustomed hooker role.

From this first appearance of the season, it looks as if the 21-year-old could very quickly be back in the Super League frame.

That could also be the case for new arrival Danny Kirmond.

The 22-year-old signed from National League club Featherstone Rovers as a winger.

But head coach Jon Sharp believes his future could lie in the back row, and that’s where he shone against the outclassed Tigers.

In fact, all eight of Huddersfield’s Super League squad men made positive impressions, with Michael Lawrence leading the tryscoring with two well-taken efforts.

There were also two tries for the impressive Jermaine McGilvray and one each for Kirmond, Chris Lawson, Craig Williams, Chris Clough (the new prop from French club Carpentras) and Luke Roberts, with Scott Glassell adding six goals.

Castleford replied with two tries from Matt Duckworth and two Jon Schofield goals.

It was a performance that delighted coach Procter, who was full of praise for all his players, but for Hemingway and Kirmond in particular.

“It was good to see Tom back after injury,” said Procter.

“He actually played hooker and looked quick out of the blocks.

“Someone who can play both hooker and half-back is not only ideal for myself but also for Jon (Sharp), who may also be looking for somebody to play both spots.

“Danny played the full 80 minutes in the second row and we were pleased with how he went.

“He’s still learning the back-row position because he signed for us as a winger.

“But we have cover in those areas, so we are looking to convert him. He has size and pace, and I didn’t realise how big he was.”