Giants end Warrington double dream

Huddersfield upset the top four apple cart with a brilliant first half performance to see off Challenge Cup winners Warrington.

The Giants were in scintillating form in the first 40 minutes as they ended Wolves hopes of a Super League and cup double.

In front of a disappointing crowd at the Halliwell Jones Stadium, Stephen Wild gave the Giants an early lead following a mistake from the kick-off by Richie Mathers.

Scrum half Danny Brough was in fine form and it was his pace off the mark that created a second try on 14 minutes, feeding second-rower Danny Kirmond. Scores from Lee Gilmour and Kevin Brown extended the Giants’ lead to leave the home fans stunned, and Brough’s drop goal on the stroke of half time gave Huddersfield a 23-0 first half lead after a virtually flawless first half performance.

A Wolves fightback was inevitable, and they got the perfect start to the second half when Mickey Higham crossed to get the crowd, who booed the home team off at half time, back on their side.

But Huddersfield withstood the pressure and extended their lead to 25-6 through Warrington-bound Brett Hodgson, who kicked a penalty following an indiscretion by Ben Westwood.

Chris Hicks crossed for a four pointer and then Higham added a second to give Wolves a bit of hope, but it was game on when Hicks was awarded his second try by the video referee, and when Westwood nailed the conversion from the touchline, Warrington found themselves five points behind with eight minutes remaining.

But a handling error gifted the Giants field position, and Brough just about managed to fire a drop goal over the crossbar to edge the visitors to six in front.

There was still time but as Warrington pushed for a crucial score, Mathers’ long pass was plucked out the air by Leroy Cudjoe, and the wingman raced 90 metres to send the Giants through to the semi-finals, much to the delight of coach Nathan Brown.