London Broncos head coach Danny Ward admitted his side were far too generous after gifting seven tries to Huddersfield Giants in a high-scoring 38-26 defeat.

Akuila Uate grabbed a brace either side of the interval for the Giants as they moved two points clear of bottom side Leeds Rhinos with their second consecutive Super League win.

There were also further tries from Joe Wardle, Jordan Turner, Jermaine McGillvary, Seb Ikahihifo and Alex Mellor for the visitors, who went into the break 28-12 ahead.

Kieran Dixon replied with a double of his own as the Broncos ran in five tries in response, but Ward conceded the hosts’ slow start left them needing a miracle to get a result.

“We’ve certainly entertained the supporters again, and that’s great, but you can’t afford to gift any team at this level a lead, and we spent far too long chasing it,” said Ward.

“We spoke all week about starting like we did last against Hull, but we got caught cold and when you’re staring down the barrel of a 16 point deficit, you’re always hoping for a bit of a miracle.

“I can’t fault the boys effort and their absolute commitment, but we weren’t good enough on a number of occasions defensively, and they picked us off, which is what happens in Super League.

“Lessons need to be learnt but it’s important to emphasise that my guys are still gelling and a lot of them are experiencing this level of the game for the first time.”

Home skipper Jay Pitts gave his side a lifeline at the break, while Rhys Williams and Alex Walker also got on the scoresheet for the Broncos, who have now suffered back-to-back home defeats.

The picture is much rosier for the Giants, though, who are now level on points with the Broncos, and head coach Simon Woolford praised his side for their performance.

“At eight points in front I got a little bit nervous, but the guys managed to swing momentum at key times, especially in the middle of that second half, and I thought we deserved it,” he said.

“We spoke all week about coming out the blocks first and not being second in the energy and enthusiasm stakes, which London sides always have in abundance.

“There were a couple of nice tries early on which set the platform for us, but they never let up and while it was disappointing to let them in, especially when we were on top, I can’t fault our work.

“We’ve found a way to win a couple of games now, there are guys coming back so I feel that dark period we had early doors is over and we can move on from here.”