HUDDERSFIELD Giants Academy staff are hoping some extra hard work pays off.
While the senior squad are taking a break following last month's end to the season, the club's juniors have been training as hard as ever for Sunday's clash with Australian side Wests Tigers Under 18s at Huddersfield YMCA (2.30).
It promises to be a massive test of the Giants' Academy credentials, with several of their Australian opponents tipped to go on to play in the NRL.
For that reason, the Giants have been training flat-out in a bid to be as competitive as possible.
"This should be a great occasion," said Giants football manager Stuart Sheard.
"Wests are a top-quality side and will provide our players with one of the biggest challenges of their career.
"It will be interesting to see how they all stand up to playing an Australian side of this ability.
"The boys have been working hard under coach Andy Procter for the big day, and hopefully this will stand them in good stead."
Two years ago, the Giants' Academy entertained Penrith Panthers Under 18s and gave a good account of themselves.
That match took place at the Galpharm which, unfortunately, has not been made available this weekend.
However, the clash at Laund Hill is still expected to attract a crowd of up to 500, with admission set at £3.00 for adults, £1 concessions and free for Under 16s.
