HUDDERSFIELD Giants headed to Wakefield Trinity Wildcats today lacking the services of two of coach Jon Sharp's top Super League performers.
Strike centre Julian Bailey (dead leg) and form prop Mick Slicker (foot) were ruled out after picking up knocks during Friday's hard-fought 24-16 triumph over Salford City Reds.
But better news for the Giants was the return of Ben Roarty, who missed that win with a foot injury, and the first Super League start of the campaign for Iain Morrison.
The battling back-row forward has missed the start of the season following knee surgery.
But he is now back to full fitness and looking to re-capture the form that made him a Super League regular during the second half of last season.
"Having Iain fit again is a big boost and gives me a whole host of new options," said Sharp.
"His enthusiasm in training and during games is infectious and will no doubt give everyone around him a lift.
"And the fact that Ben is back after missing on Friday night is obviously excellent news.
"You are always going to miss players of that calibre."
That's why the loss of Bailey and Slicker has not gone down well with the McAlpine coach.
Bailey was the star of the show against the City Reds, with his long-range second-half try setting the Giants on the road to a fourth victory from five top-flight starts.
And Slicker is in his best form since joining the club in 2001.
"When you are faced with such a busy programme you always know players are likely to pick up knocks," added Sharp.
"Easter is the most demanding time and we've already picked up our first casualties.
"It's at a time like this you know it'll put the strength of your squad to the test.
"I just hope we don't pick up any more injuries today, because in another four days we've got to go to Leeds."
It is hoped Bailey and Slicker will both be available for the trip to Headingley.
