Saints cut down Giants

Huddersfield were unable to break down a stalwart defence as St Helens notched up an excellent 24-6 victory a the Galpharm Stadium.

The Giant's were condemned to their third defeat of the season, a result that means Saints leapfrog them into third place in the Super League table.

An impressive defence has been key to the home side's recent success, which has included a memorable victory over champions Leeds.

But today the tables were turned with the visitors' line proving impenetrable, while at the other end Francis Meli found his way through twice in the first half before James Graham and Kyle Eastmond followed up in the second.

Dominant

Forwards Tony Puletua and Graham were the bedrock of a dominant first-half display by Mick Potter's men on their travels.

Leon Pryce, switched to full-back in the absence of the injured Paul Wellens, also caused the hosts all sorts of problems with his ball handling.

The game's opening try came on six minutes courtesy of a clever switch of direction by Eastmond, his vision setting up centre Gary Wheeler to deliver the offload for left winger Meli to run in unopposed.

A second soon followed for the winger, with Wheeler again setting him up after a barnstorming run from the impressive Graham.

Eastmond converted to give the visitors a 10-0 advantage and that was the signal for Giants coach Brown to send on new signing Danny Brough.

His arrival saw Huddersfield gradually work their way back into the game but they were unable to make any impact on the scoreline before half time.

Magnificent

Just eight minutes into the second half however, their pressure paid off when substitute Scott Grix latched onto Kevin Brown's high pass to cross at the corner for their only try.

Brett Hodgson cut the gap to just four points with his touchline conversion but on 54 minutes a high tackle on Bryn Hargreaves allowed Eastmond to extend Saints' lead again.

Huddersfield found some variety in their game after Brough took over playmaking duties but they were simply unable to get through Saints' defence.

On 66 minutes the visitors sealed the two points when Graham barged his way over from close range for a try his performance deserved.

Before the end Eastmond put the finishing touches to a superb day for Saints, crossing for an opportunist try that led him kicking his fourth goal.

The victory sets up Saints nicely for their Good Friday clash against Super League leaders Wigan at Knowsley Road, which is live on Sky Sports.