McGillvary relieved to see Giants start with victory

Last season’s Super League top try-scorer immediately got his 2017 tally up and running with a first-half brace as Huddersfield eased into a 20-6 interval lead on Friday.

They eventually prospered 26-16 – Danny Brough converted just two of their six scores – and McGillvary told The Yorkshire Post: “It was a good start.

“It wasn’t the best performance in the second half especially as I think we relaxed a bit too much.

“But we did really well in the first and a win’s a win. It was certainly a better start last year and we’ll take that.

“As for me, it’s always nice to score but even better to win.

“Leroy (Cudjoe) is always putting tries on a plate for me and he did that again on Friday.

“But it was a team effort and everyone inside does the hard work.”

Although Huddersfield finished bottom last term they are intent on a top-four finish once again in 2017 and their winter recruits all made decent first impressions.

McGillvary, 28, said: “The new guys were sensational how quickly they settled in.

“Lee Gaskell was outstanding, as was Dale Ferguson, Paul Clough was great off the bench and you can go on.

“I was really impressed with our forwards. Our pack really dominated especially Sebastine Ikahihifo who did 35 minutes straight off from the start and was really strong.

“The effort was superb and, though there was a few attacking errors and silly penalties, they are things we can sort.”

Huddersfield host Salford Red Devils on Thursday, opponents who lost 26-16 at home to champions Wigan Warriors last Saturday.

Having survived the Million Pound Game in October, they are tipped by many to struggle again.

“I don’t think they will,” insisted McGillvary.

“They have some quality in there and I know their conditioner Greg Brown well.

“I speak to him quite a bit and he says they’re in good shape.”