In a commanding display in Perpignan, Huddersfield Giants stunned the Catalans Dragons, securing a place in the Challenge Cup semi-finals with a resounding 34-6 victory.
The Giants laid the groundwork early with three unanswered tries in the first half, courtesy of Jake Connor, Adam Milner, and Adam Swift. Seb Ikahihifo and Esan Marsters added two more tries after the break, while Kevin Naiqama’s contribution further extended the Giants’ lead.
While Matt Ikuvalu managed to get the hosts on the scoreboard, it was a mere consolation on a night dominated by Ian Watson’s side.
Catalans, fresh off a victory against St Helens in the Super League, had their hopes of a double challenge for honours in 2024 dashed in a single game. The defeat was particularly hard to swallow for coach Steve McNamara, who had guided his team to the final back in 2022 at Tottenham.
Ian Watson, who previously led Salford to a final appearance in 2020, seems to be steering his side towards another potential showpiece event. Jake Connor was the standout performer, orchestrating the attack, while six different players contributed points on the night.
The only setback for the Giants was the injury to ex-Dragons forward Hugo Salabio in the second half.
Despite an attempt by McNamara to rally his team with a pitchside appearance, Catalans had little to celebrate, with Ikuvalu’s try being the sole bright spot on a dismal night for the Super League leaders.
Credit: BBC Sport
