PROUD Giants coach Jon Sharp has expressed his delight that Great Britain secured such a thrilling and crucial Tri-Nations triumph over New Zealand at his home stadium.

The Lions assistant coach watched his side mount a superb second-half fightback to beat the Kiwis 22-12 and keep alive Great Britain's dream of winning the competition.

The host nation scored 20 unanswered points after the break to send the vast majority of the 20,372 crowd home happy.

And Sharp was delighted the fans will have such happy memories of their latest visit to the Galpharm.

"Because this match was being played in Huddersfield it was always going to be that little bit special for me," he said.

"But I honestly didn't think it would be quite as special as this!

"Obviously, our performance in the first half left a lot to be desired.

"But the boys more than made up for it in the second half with an absolutely stunning response.

"To score 20 unanswered points in a half against a team like New Zealand is an incredible achievement.

"To do it at the Galpharm was the icing on the cake for me."

Sharp's sentiments were echoed by Great Britain coach Brian Noble, who could not praise his players highly enough for the way they battled back.

"We gave New Zealand a few piggy backs in the first half and if you let the Kiwis play, it is very much like taking on the Harlem Globetrotters," said the Lions and Bradford chief.

"That's why I can't take my hat off enough to the team. I'm really pleased and they showed a lot of belief and character.

"We know if we get to the right end of the field we are capable of scoring points.

"It was a tough game but the disappointment of losing to Australia in the final seconds last week is now behind us.

"To be where we want to be we have got to play five crucial Tests in five weeks.

"But these are three very good teams and any of the three can still win it."

Great Britain can now secure a place in the final by beating Australia at Wigan next week.

They will have a second chance when they take on the Kiwis at Hull the weekend after.