St Helens host the Huddersfield Giants on Thursday night as they look to continue their strong start to their Super League campaign.

After Saint’s emphatic demolition of a struggling Hull side, tomorrow’s encounter should prove to be more of a test.

The Giants come into the contest sixth – two points behind Saints.

While their Round 2 match-up proved to be no contest as Saints won 28-0, the Giants come into this second fixture much improved.

Huddersfield have won their last five games, including a notable comeback win over Leeds last week and a Challenge Cup victory in the South of France over Catalans.

A win for the Giants would see them level on points with Saints.

Paul Wellens will be without half-back Lewis Dodd for a second consecutive game.

Dodd was absent from the weekend’s win over Hull FC with a groin/abductor problem which has plagued the half since suffering the injury against Leeds.

There is good news for Saints fans, as hooker Daryl Clark is set to return this week.

St Helens will look to build on last weekend’s result against Hull, however, April has been marked with a spell of tough results.

Defeat against the Catalans in France, followed by an emphatic loss to Warrington in the Challenge Cup, spoiled an otherwise strong start to their campaign.

Saints next five fixtures are key in their push for the League Leaders’ Shield

After Huddersfield on Thursday, Saints must travel to Hull KR before they host the Leeds Rhinos and Catalans Dragons to round out May.

But champions are tested in tough games, and for Wellens’ side, these next fixtures could lay the groundwork towards their long-term aim towards another Super League crown.

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