FORMER Giants hooker Ryan Hudson has warned his old club they will be coming up against a wounded Tiger tomorrow (3.00).

The 24-year-old Tigers skipper admits his Castleford side were hurt by the manner of their heavy 36-0 pre-season defeat at the hands of the Giants at the McAlpine three weeks ago.

But Hudson, who signed for Huddersfield as a 16-year-old, believes that will count in his side's favour in the Super League opener, and they have already been handed all the motivation they need to produce a top display.

"It's fair to say we were all absolutely gutted by the way we played against the Giants that night," he reflected.

"That wasn't the real Castleford Tigers, and we aim to prove that tomorrow.

"We learned a tremendous amount from that defeat and we've been working hard to put things right to make sure we're in the perfect shape.

"We're pleased with the progress we've made since then and that will be reflected in this match.

"The main problem we've faced is that this is a relatively new side that needs time to gel.

"We lost some good players in Danny Orr, Michael Eagar, Dale Fritz and Wayne Bartrim, but we've replaced them with players that are equally as impressive.

"Once they start to slot in and take on board all our systems we'll be OK, and that process could start as early as tomorrow. That's definitely the hope."

Hudson admits that opening the season against the Giants will make Super League IX extra special.

He admits he thoroughly enjoyed his three-and-a-half years at Huddersfield and is pleased to see them doing well in the competition.

"Huddersfield gave me my big break and that makes them a special club to me," he added.

"I experienced the bad times with them when they first got into Super League, and I'm pleased things have now turned around for them. But I'm afraid I won't be too sympathetic tomorrow!"