FIT-AGAIN Jermaine McGillvary knows the Huddersfield Giants’ confidence will be sky high when they head to St Helens for their Super League XVIII opener on Saturday (4.45).
And he has warned his top-flight rivals that Huddersfield won’t be taking a backward step in any encounter during 2013.
The way the Giants dominated Widnes during the second half of their 36-12 home trial triumph 11 days ago backed up the claim they will be more physical than ever before, with head coach Paul Anderson having recruited the likes of monster props Stuart Fielden, Craig Kopczak and Anthony Mullally and no-nonsense back-rower Ukuma Ta’ai.
But with the backs having also bulked up, McGillvary knows his side will be taking no prisoners, while also predicting his post-season ankle surgery will make him a stronger Super League player, both mentally and physically.
“The coaching staff have really put us through it this pre-season, and we’re forward to reaping the rewards,” said McGillvary (left).
“There’s no doubt we’ll have a lot more physical presence this season, with our forwards ready to give us in the backs something to work with.
“There were a number of times last season when we found ourselves forced onto the back foot, and that obviously makes it tough.
“But we’re confident that won’t be the case this year. And I want to be there to take full advantage.
“My confidence, and that of the team is sky high, and we’re very serious amount a big challenge.”
