Although round two saw Hull KR push Super League champions Leeds all the way at Elland Road, Salford come within a whisker of upsetting in-form Wakefield Trinity and Widnes succumb to a one-point defeat away at reigning league leaders Castleford, the surprise result from the second round of fixtures came at the John Smiths Stadium on Thursday night as Huddersfield powered past Warrington.
Huddersfield 20-6 Warrington
Whilst most of the Rugby League fraternity were tuning into Sky Sports to watch Leeds host newly-promoted Hull KR on Thursday night, at the same time Huddersfield Giants were doing battle with Warrington Wolves in a somewhat "forgotten" fixture.
It turned out to be a memorable night for Giants fans however as they kept the visitors to just one score and gave head coach Rick Stone his first victory of 2018.
Led by the seemingly ageless Danny Brough, Huddersfield were far too strong for a Warrington side that, despite taking an early lead in the fourth minute, looked devoid of confidence and organisation. Brough notched up two assists and kicked four penalties as the hosts piled the pressure on new Warrington boss Steve Price as he still looks for his first win in charge.
Huddersfield deserved to win - no doubt about it - but Warrington were worryingly bad. Yet again, unforced handling errors and miscommunication in defence came to the fore as the home side scored twice off Warrington mistakes.
Though the conditions did not exactly make for a night of free flowing rugby league, Huddersfield were by far the better side, managing the game and adapting to the weather far more efficiently than their visitors. Warrington, in contrast, spurned a number of try-scoring opportunities including one by Tom Lineham after a neat kick to the corner was fumbled by the winger with the line begging.
Next fixture
Warrington play this Friday against Widnes in a local derby that has the makings of an unpredictable affair with both sides vying for a win following losses in round two. Huddersfield, on the other hand, have a week off with the Giants' next fixture coming on Friday 23 February against the impressive St Helens. The Wolves desperately need a win against their bitter rivals as another loss could be disastrous despite being so early on in the season. For Huddersfield, the tie against Saints will be one of their hardest games this season, but win and they will surely be included in this list for round three.
