GIANTS coach Jon Sharp is desperate to see his proud Challenge Cup record continue.

In his first year in charge at the Galpharm, Sharp saw his side reach the semi-final before losing to St Helens.

A year later, the Giants were controversially beaten at home in the fourth round - by St Helens.

Then, last season, Huddersfield were beaten in their first Challenge Cup final appearance for 44 years - by St Helens!

It's a recent record that is the envy of most Super League clubs.

But, as Sharp prepares for tonight's trip to top-flight strugglers Salford (8.00), he is desperate to achieve even more in rugby league's most prestigious knockout competition.

"We really enjoyed ourselves last year when we reached the final," said Sharp.

"And I'm proud that in my first three years at the club we've reached the final and semi-final.

"But last season we came away with the silver medal when we wanted gold.

"I just hope that this season we will have the opportunity to go for gold again, because I believe we're in a better position this year to collect it.

"But, first of all, we've got Salford at The Willows to think about.

"They present us with a massive challenge, and we've got to be alive to that.

"We have ignored the fact they are bottom of Super League, because we know on their day they are still capable of making it very difficult for us.

"I know their coach (Karl Harrison) very well and I know he's a tough man, who drives his team hard.

"He won't be enjoying this current situation, and neither will his players. I expect them to be looking at this cup-tie as the chance to get back to winning ways and re-ignite their Super League challenge."

That's obviously the last thing Sharp wants to see, with the Giants chief keen to keep the winning habit.

He will be keeping changes to a minimum, having named the 18 who were on duty in Cardiff last week.

All 17 players in action were impressive during the 36-12 triumph over Wakefield at the Millennium Stadium, with Stuart Jones the man to miss out.

But as the back-row forward has now had the opportunity to rest a niggly knee injury, he will be looking to force his way back into contention.