Five things to know: XXXX Derby v Broncos
The North Queensland Toyota Cowboys travel to Brisbane on Friday night to take on arch-rivals Brisbane in a XXXX Derby clash at Suncorp Stadium.
1. DERBY DAY
Friday’s clash will be the second XXXX Derby between the two clubs in 2021. The two sides previously met in Round 9, with a late Jason Taumalolo try and a Valentine Holmes field goal handing the Cowboys a thrilling 19-18 victory at Queensland Country Bank Stadium.
2. ON A ROLL
North Queensland have won the previous two XXXX Derby showdowns against Brisbane. Aside from the Round 9 victory, the Cowboys toppled Brisbane 32-16 in the final round of the 2020 season. The Broncos still hold a commanding 35-18 lead in the overall head to head match-up.
3. RARE AIR
Cowboys’ try-scoring wizard Kyle Feldt will become the 17th player in club history to appear in 150 games. Feldt, who scored his 100th try last weekend, joins a legendary crew containing names like Thurston, Bowen, Scott, Cooper, Bolton, Payne, Taumalolo, Bowman, Tamou, Morgan, Winterstein, Linnett, Graham, Granville, Williams and Hannay.
4. BENNY’S BACK
Fan favourite Ben Hampton has been named to return from injury against the Broncos. Hampton has been sidelined since suffering a torn pec against the Warriors in Round 8. The 29-year-old returns on the interchange, replacing Daejarn Asi.
5. STICKING STRONG
Hampton’s inclusion is the only change to Todd Payten’s 17 from the four-point loss to Melbourne. Jake Granville holds his position at fullback after a brilliant debut in the position last weekend. Kane Bradley also remains on the wing on the back of a try-scoring NRL debut against the Storm.
