CHRIS THORMAN is ready to put his 2006 frustrations behind him and lead the Giants to Super League XII glory!
Although the 26-year-old goalkicking half-back captained the club to a first Challenge Cup final appearance in 44 years last season, he admits it was a campaign full of personal disappointment.
A series of injuries prevented him from firing on all cylinders. But with the knocks having cleared up, Thorman is desperate to bounce back - starting against champions St Helens in Sunday's Super League opener at the Galpharm (7.05).
"Apart from the Challenge Cup run, last year was one I'm keen to forget," he admitted.
"It was filled with frustration because of the number of injuries I picked up. But those are all behind me now. My fitness is as good as it's ever been. I'm feeling sharp, fast and strong. I was happy with the way I played in the pre-season games, and I can't wait to get cracking now.
"After last season, I'm determined to have a great year personally."
Thorman has no doubts the squad have what it takes to mount a top-six bid.
"I'm feeling in good shape, and so are the lads," he added. "We've worked tremendously hard and that was reflected in the performance against Wigan.
"I know things obviously didn't go according to plan at Leeds, but that changed absolutely nothing. Everything we've been doing has been geared towards making sure we're ready to face St Helens, and we're confident about it."
