Crabtree makes Giant impact

Crabtree: Giant impact

He has always been a good player who could create things and make things happen but I think we've got more people pushing with him now and that has brought out Eorl's strengths. He just gets into them.

Paul Jackson
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Huddersfield Giants prop Paul Jackson admits feeling a lot better about playing in Saturday's Challenge Cup final knowing Eorl Crabtree is on his side and not lining up against him.

Jackson's front-row comrade Crabtree is an unmistakable figure in Super Leaue, standing at 6ft 5in and with a mane of golden hair flowing as he barges his way around the field.

Crabtree's barnstorming runs and vicious tackles have made him a standout performer during a superb season for the Giants so far, which could yet also include a Challenge Cup victory.

Huddersfield will also probably finish in the top four in the table during what could be the most memorable of seasons, and Jackson says Crabtree has played a huge part.

With Saturday's clash with Warrington creeping ever closer, Jackson says that he is much happier in his preparations knowing Crabtree will be wearing the same colours.

Leader

"Eorl has really had a good year, he has led from the front," said Jackson.

"He has always been a good player who could create things and make things happen but I think we've got more people pushing with him now and that has brought out Eorl's strengths. He just gets into them.

"I'm glad I'm on his side, he's a big thing. To see him in full flight is one of the biggest inspirations."

Huddersfield have finished in the top half just once in the summer era, but are enjoying a resurgence under new coach Nathan Brown after years battling at the bottom.

Scotland international Jackson has found it hugely refreshing as he began his career at the club but had spells away with Wakefield and Castleford before returning in 2005.

"From where we were last year to this year it's a great achievement," he said. "I'm really happy to be playing at the top end as opposed to the rest of my career when I've been involved in relegation battles.

"I've loved every minute since coming back. It's been five years and we've gradually got better."

Reversal

Huddersfield reached the Challenge Cup final in 2006 where they were beaten by St Helens, and Jackson is hoping for a reversal in fortunes this time around.

"A lot of people don't get to play in one so to play in two would be fantastic," he said. "It all happened so fast last time, you just seemed to click your fingers and it was over.

"It was quite surreal really so I'm going to try to take it in more this time.

"We have got different personnel now. There are four or five that were involved last time but there has been quite a lot of change.

"We have got a lot of players who have played in big games here and in Australia so hopefully that will stand us in good stead."