HUDDERSFIELD Giants coach Jon Sharp has today paid tribute to the work of fitness chief Geoff Evans and his conditioning team after Sunday's heroic 32-22 Super League triumph over Leigh.
Despite playing for 65 minutes with just 12 men following the dismissal of full-back Paul Reilly for an off-the-ball challenge, the Giants finished the game strongly, sealing victory with a last-minute Hefin O'Hare touchdown.
On top of that, all 17 players reported for training injury-free yesterday and were able to play a full part in the sessions.
And Sharp believes that is no fluke.
"The more I reflect on Sunday's effort, the more remarkable it becomes," said Sharp.
"I did wonder how badly their exploits in such heat might affect them when they came in for training yesterday.
"But, on the whole, they were in great condition and were ready to go again.
"In fact, the only player in real need of treatment was Ryan Clayton'
"The finger he dislocated at Salford the week before popped out again when he was getting changed after the match!
"Apart from that, they were looking good, which is obviously down to the work undertaken by Geoff and his team.
"The fitness required from those 16 players who were in action for the last 65 minutes on Sunday was of an extraordinary level.
"Geoff really put the boys through their paces in pre-season and it's on occasions like Sunday when you appreciate why it's so vital for them to work so hard."
Sharp revealed that tough back row Stuart Jones was close to making a return against Leigh after an ankle injury.
He should be in contention for Saturday's trip to Hull (6.05), although there remains a doubt over Stanley Gene (knee).
Also still absent are Michael De Vere (hand) and Ben Roarty, who has had a successful operation on a neck injury but willl remain on the sidelines for the foreseeable future.
