Super League: Adrian Lam heaps praise on key Leigh Leopards man amid narrow Huddersfield win

Leopards came from behind three times to beat 12-man Huddersfield, who had Andre Savelio sent off just before the hour – his second red card in four matches.

Giants old boy McIntosh made his first start and home debut since joining from Hull FC in April.

A rib injury to winger Josh Charnley saw him step into the breach for just his third appearance.

“Darnell has waited patiently for his opportunity,” said Lam, whose side moved up one place to eighth.

“So, I am proud of the way he played. He did some good stuff. I was worried his load might not be that good because he hasn’t played for a long time.

“But he scored one try and should have had a second.

“I thought it was a try every day of the year,” insisted Lam of a second-half effort that was disallowed. “They are big moments and could have cost us the game.

“I was frustrated in a lot of aspects but more so with the non-flow of the game.

“There were a lot of decisions not called for or missed. Because it was so stop-start we couldn’t find a rhythm and get going.

“We had ourselves to blame as well, but we will take the two points.

“I thought Huddersfield were very courageous and played well. It seemed we were chasing the game for a lot of the time but when it counted most we got it done.”

Interim coach Luke Robinson believes the Giants’ performance was “a step in the right direction”.

Former head coach Ian Watson’s temporary assistant insists he does not know how long he will be in the emergency role.

“My job is just to instil some pride back in the shirt, get the players playing for each other and themselves and that was a step in the right direction,” said Robinson.

“But you can’t change things overnight. I’m looking short term to try and get some wins on the board.

“I can’t knock them though. The amount of times it looked like Leigh were going to score and someone would scramble and save a try.

“With 16-17 minutes to go I had no subs left to bring on. I’m extremely proud and the fans can be proud of the effort the lads put in, even though we are disappointed we didn’t win.”

On Savelio’s latest red card, Robinson added: “I have spoken to him previously about his tackle technique.

“I love the fact he likes to bang and the fact he likes to whack people.

“But you’ve got to be careful these days, get your footwork right, keep your arms down and make sure you are hitting the right spot.”