IN-FORM Danny Kirmond has warned the Giants to expect Challenge Cup opponents Rochdale to be fully fired up at the start of tomorrow’s fifth-round tie at the Galpharm (11.30am).
The struggling Championship I Hornets are expected to present Super League Huddersfield with few problems as coach Nathan Brown’s men look to book a place in the quarter-finals.
But back-rower Kirmond knows from his time at Championship club Featherstone Rovers how lower-grade players relish a battle against a top-flight team.
And he believes it’s something all his teammates should bear in mind ahead of tomorrow’s early start.
“For a side like Rochdale this going to be their cup final,” said the 23-year-old back-row forward.
“When I was at Featherstone we played against Super League side Catalans Dragons twice and we absolutely loved it.
“They beat us easily the first time around at their place, but the following season we gave it a really good go when we played at home and only lost by eight points.
“I remember how much we looked forward to taking on these Super League players and how much we raised our game as a result, so I know how much Rochdale will enjoy coming here looking to upset us and see what they can do.
“So it’s vital for us to be ready to meet Rochdale head on from the start, because I’m sure they’ll come out firing, and we have to make sure we keep at our level and do whatever it takes to get through to the next round.
“Every player dreams of reaching a Challenge Cup final, including the Australians who come over here, and that should be motivation enough to make sure we don’t take anything for granted in this tie.”
