Garry Schofield is preparing for a battle of the giants when promoted Huddersfield entertain champions Bradford Bulls tonight.

The Bulls steamrollered their way to the title in 1997 on the back of a massive pack of forwards but the Giants aim to fight fire with fire in an effort to upset the odds.

Schofield, who took over as Huddersfield's head coach in November, is beefing up his pack with four props, including former Bulls giant Jeff Wittenberg.

"Much of Bradford's success last season was based on the power of their pack so it's important to match them up front," said Schofield. "I'll be fielding a team more than capable of doing that."

Although straight out of the First Division, Huddersfield have a wealth of experience, with ex-St Helens forward Jonathan Neil and one-time Leeds skipper Neil Harmon in the front row and another former Headingley prop, Nick Fozzard, partnering Wittenberg in the second row.

Huddersfield, elevated to Super League in place of Paris, are being widely tipped for the wooden spoon and Schofield is hoping to use that as a psychological spur to his side.

"We have been written off," said the former Great Britain stand-off. "It's been said that my forwards aren't big enough and my backs aren't quick enough but if that motivates my fellas any further then all well and good.

"It doesn't frighten me that we're playing Bradford. They're an excellent side and they've got some first-class players but I've got to worry about my players not theirs."

In addition to Wittenberg, centre Paul Loughlin and full-back Paul Cook will be playing against their old club. Loughlin played in 31 of Bradford's 33 matches in 1997 before becoming surplus to requirements.

With a big following expected from Bradford, Huddersfield are anticipating their biggest attendance for a League match since 10,230 watched them play St Helens at their old Fartown ground 36 years ago.

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