Controversial former Canberra Raiders NRL star Joel Monaghan was the man of the moment as he inspired Warrington to a nine-try, 47-0 rout of Huddersfield, that served notice of the Wolves' grand final credentials.

On the opening night of the Super League play-offs, the younger Monaghan brother touched down twice and was at the heart of everything the league leader's Shield winners did well as they coasted through to the semi-finals in a fortnight's time.

Former State of Origin players Matt King and Brett Hodgson were also among the scorers for the home side, along with a Chris Riley double.

It was the Giants that knocked Warrington out of last year's playoffs but there was never any risk of a repeat victory this time around as Tony Smith's men dominated from start to finish in greasy conditions at the Halliwell Jones stadium in Warrington.

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