Huddersfield prepared for Castleford backlash

Despite a barren Easter that has left them bottom of Super League, Castleford still present a danger today, the Huddersfield coach, Paul Anderson, has been telling his troops.

The second-placed Giants go to Cas this afternoon for what might look like a routine fixture. Anderson has reminded them, however, that the Tigers have beaten Leeds and drawn with the Catalan Dragons at home this season and were unlucky not to beat Wigan.

“Cas have some good players on their books,” Anderson said. “One day things are going to click for them.”

Huddersfield are without the suspended Eorl Crabtree, but Michael Lawrence continues his comeback and Stuart Fielden returns after being rested for the big win over Widnes.

Castleford are without their Kiwi centre, Jake Webster, and fear he could miss the rest of the season if he needs a knee reconstruction.

They are likely to give a second debut to their former prop, Ryan Boyle, who has joined them from Salford, with Jacob Emmitt moving in the opposite direction.

In today’s other game, the Broncos continue their tour of London and the Home Counties by hosting Bradford at Adams Park, the home of Wycombe Wanderers. Their usual home at The Stoop is still unplayable, whilst Esher, where they played the Catalan Dragons on Good Friday, is unavailable. Craig Gower heads a lengthy list of players recalled after being rested for Monday’s match at Warrington.

In tomorrow’s programme, Wigan host Wakefield, knowing that victory will put them in first place, regardless of what anybody else may do.

It does not get any easier for the Warriors, who have added their captain, Sean O’Loughlin (back) and Josh Charnley (gashed ankle) to a long list of absentees, although that can hardly be said to have held them back so far this season.

Anthony Gelling is fit again after a knee injury and could be a direct replacement on the wing for Charnley, whilst the Wakefield coach, Richard Agar has hinted at freshening up his squad with some changes.

Hull KR have some bridges to re-build with their supporters after the humiliation of their 84-6 thrashing by Wigan last time out. This time St Helens are the visitors. Across the city, Hull are at home to the Catalan Dragons, whilst in the evening kick-off Warrington go to Leeds.