2017 SEASON PREVIEW: Huddersfield Giants
Last season placing:
League position: 12th after regular season – 3rd in the Qualifiers
Challenge Cup: Quarter finalists
Rock bottom:
Huddersfield Giants will want to draw a line under 2016 and pretend it never happened, because it was awful from start to finish. It was a year in which they were joined by the defending Super League Champions in The Qualifiers as they were made to fight for their top-flight status. At the end of the regular season the Giants, who had been tipped to challenge for the top four, were sat bottom of the division and were at threat of beginning 2017 in the Championship.
They managed to stave off relegation though as they finished in the final automatic promotion spot back into the top flight, with Hull KR the unlucky side to be dropped down a tier. A new season is on the horizon though and they will be desperate to prove last year was a one-off.
Key Players:
Danny Brough: After the horror show of 2016, Brough has to prove that he is still one of the best halfbacks in the competition this season. His kicking game has been crucial to their success over the years and his ability to spark the game into life is an enviable trait for opposition coaches. He will need to stand up and be counted this year if they are to bounce back from a poor season.
Ryan Brierley: He has so much promise, yet he was unable to show what he is capable of as the Giants struggled all season. After forcing a move from Leigh Centurions to get his long-awaited chance in Super League it was difficult for him to leave a mark on 2016. We could see the Huddersfield number seven light up the top flight this year though, as he looks to continue his incredible try scoring record.
Leroy Cudjoe: A brilliant servant to the club, and ahead of the start of the season Cudjoe has been deservedly named club captain. He is a solid international centre who offers a lot in both attack and defence. His experience is key for the club, and he will be looking for a big year to force his way back into the England squad in time for the World Cup at the end of the season.
Story of 2017:
If Huddersfield are to be successful this year they need to put their previous season behind them and make the most of the fresh start which has been prevented to them. The key factor will be Rick Stone having a full pre-season under his belt after taking over from Paul Anderson in July of last year. He managed to steer a sinking ship to safety, and now he will be able to call this Giants squad his own after making some astute signings.
It will be tough for the club to go from a relegation battle to challenging for the title in the space of 12 months, so they will be instead aiming for a top eight berth to secure their Super League status for another year.
Predictions:
League Table: 8th
Challenge Cup: Quarter-finals
Top try scorer: Jake Mamo
Top points scorer: Danny Brough
Player of the year: Ryan Brierley
