Huddersfield Giants displayed an impressive performance, securing their fourth consecutive Super League victory with a determined 28-0 win against Castleford Tigers.
Unfortunately, after the triumphant match against Hull FC, Ian Watson’s team faced a double injury blow as Jermaine McGillvary and captain Luke Yates had to drop out. However, this provided an opportunity for Ashton Golding to make his return to the lineup. Additionally, Kevin Naiqama wasn’t deemed fit during the warm-up, leading to Esan Marsters taking his place in the team.
The Giants started the game with early pressure, causing a fumble from Castleford’s Greg Eden, which granted them attacking space on the Tigers’ line. They capitalised on this advantage, executing a flowing move that saw Olly Russell and Jake Connor combining to send Sam Halsall over for the first score of the match.
Following some excellent defence on their own line, the Giants were awarded a six-again, setting the stage for their second try. In-form Olly Russell sprinted through the Castleford defence and offloaded to Leroy Cudjoe, who rounded Gareth Widdop to score another try for the Giants.
Despite Castleford’s efforts to test the Giants’ defence and win the game’s first penalty, the Giants stood strong, thanks to solid performances from players like Tui Lolohea and Esan Marsters. The Giants’ attack continued to flourish, with Tui Lolohea intercepting a pass from Gareth Widdop, leading to Chris McQueen’s try.
As the first half came to an end, the Giants held a well-deserved 14-0 lead, courtesy of tries from Sam Halsall, Leroy Cudjoe, and Chris McQueen.
The second half saw Huddersfield initially slow to find their rhythm, as Castleford pressed hard and tested Ash Golding with high kicks. However, a repeat of the first try occurred, with Jake Connor providing an excellent pass to Sam Halsall, who secured his second try, extending the Giants’ lead to 18-0.
The following twenty minutes saw both teams locked in a fierce battle, but Castleford struggled to break through the Giants’ solid defence. In the final moments of the game, Huddersfield intensified their efforts, and Sam Halsall completed his first senior hat-trick, benefiting from a superb offload by Leroy Cudjoe.
To seal the victory, Adz Milner, on loan from Castleford, supported a break down-field from Ashton Golding and scored against his former club, putting the final nail in the coffin and securing a valuable two points for Ian Watson and his Giants.
With this victory, the Giants have now achieved four consecutive wins, instilling confidence as they continue their journey in the Betfred Super League.
Final Score: Castleford Tigers 0 – 28 Huddersfield Giants.