The North Queensland Toyota Cowboys host the St George Illawarra Dragons at Queensland Country Bank Stadium on Saturday evening.
1. ON A ROLL
The Cowboys have enjoyed a string of recent success against the Dragons. North Queensland has won three consecutive games and five of the previous seven, stretching back to 2019. Todd Payten’s men won both clashes last year, including a convincing 31-12 victory at home in Round 14. The Cowboys hold a 20-17 lead in 37 meetings between the two sides.
2. SAME SAME
For only the second time this year, Todd Payten has named an unchanged 17 for the Dragons clash. Last week’s debutant Kulikefu Finefeuiaki will make his first home appearance, holding his spot on the interchange after an impressive maiden performance in the NRL. Fellow second-rower Heilum Luki made a successful return from a hamstring injury.
3. FAMILY AFFAIR
Cowboys hooker Jake Granville and brother-in-law Ben Hunt have clashed in many big games over the courses of their storied careers and they’ll add another installment Saturday. Dragons skipper Hunt is set to play his 300th NRL game on Saturday afternoon – a party Cowboys utility Granville will be trying to spoil.
4. STRONG RECORD
The Dragons have been Scott Drinkwater’s favourite opponent over the course of his NRL career. Drinkwater’s four tries against the Dragons are his most against any team, one clear of his three against the Bulldogs, Warriors and Wests Tigers.
5. CURTAIN RAISER
Fans in attendance Saturday will have the opportunity to see some extra rugby league with the Clontarf State of Origin match kicking off at 2.55pm. The game will showcase 45 Clontarf Year 11 and 12 students from across QLD and NSW, rewarding students who engage in their education, have strong leadership potential as well as showcasing their football skills.
