York Knights’ difficult start to life in their maiden Super League campaign continued this weekend.

The team extended their losing streak to four matches with defeat against Huddersfield Giants at the Accu Stadium.

York, who stunned last year’s finalists Hull KR in their opening game at the top level, were beaten 34-14 by Huddersfield.

Following the defeat, York Knights head coach Mark Applegarth expressed his disappointment to Sky Sports where he offered an honest discussion of his side’s efforts. 

He said: ‘’It’s the first time I feel we’ve not shown that desperation to defend our errors as much as we should as a coach, that’s what I’ll be chasing. 

‘’Spirit, effort and application, I never question that, especially at this level but we need to be a little bit more steely, shall we say.’’ 

When asked if Saturday’s display was the most disappointing, he said: ”Yes. 100% it is.”

This was another blow to their Super League season having started promisingly by beating both Hull rivals in their early fixtures. 

There was a mixed reaction from Knights’ fans on social media with some expressing disappointment by what they felt was a sense of false hope from the first game, while others suggested ways the team could improve. 

The Knights, who face Hull KR in Saturday’s challenge cup quarter-final, made history early this season by beating KR in their debut Super League match.

It was an outstanding achievement that signalled they were ready to challenge and perform on an elite stage. 

However, Saturday’s game has highlighted the teams difficulty to adapt and deal with high pressure moments whilst aiming to maintain their early success as a new top-flight team. 

With several players picking up injuries at this weekend’s game and in previous matches, the Knights have struggled to name a squad of 17 fit players as they face the Robins again for Saturday’s Challenge Cup.