Sunday sees an unlikely basement battle in Super League between Hull and Huddersfield, who have both won just three of their opening 11 matches.

However, both gained confidence-boosting victories in the Challenge Cup and Hull are favourites to avenge their 28-8 defeat at the Galpharm Stadium in March.

"This is an important game for both clubs but I'm only looking at us and we know how important a win is to us," said Hull coach Peter Sharp.

"I wouldn't say it was a must-win game but I feel it is a game we certainly need to win.

"We have shown improvements in our last few matches and we're also beginning to get players back on the training field as well as in the team.

"I believe we have a lot of wins left in us this season and we'll be looking for a start at the weekend."

Huddersfield's Cup win over York turned around their League fortunes a year ago and coach Jon Sharp senses a touch of deja vu following their 42-24 win over neighbours Halifax last week.

"I saw signs in last week's game of guys coming into form who may not have been playing as well as they can and defensively we are looking strong, so that encourages me," he said.

"We need to be at our very best and I think indicators are that we are approaching some good form."

The Giants are boosted by the return of Great Britain tourist Martin Aspinwall, who is set to play his first match of the season after recovering from major knee surgery.

"Aspy's form has been really good," said Sharp. "He's played two games in the reserves and he's been heavily involved.

"He has got through the other side and has had no adverse reactions from the games, which is testimony to the backroom staff and their hard work to get him up to speed."

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