XXXX things you need to know: Round 1 v Dolphins

Author: Cowboys.com.au
Timestamp: Fri 8 Mar 2024, 01:12 PM

The North Queensland Toyota Cowboys travel to Brisbane to face The Dolphins in a season-opening clash on Sunday afternoon at Suncorp Stadium.

1. SO IT BEGINS

The Cowboys open the 2024 campaign with a XXXX Derby against The Dolphins on Sunday afternoon. North Queensland have endured mixed Round 1 results over the previous five seasons, with two wins and three losses. Although they began last season with a thrilling 19-18 victory over the Raiders at Queensland Country Bank Stadium.

Gavin Cooper, Matt Scott and Michael Morgan following the Cowboys 24-12 Round 1 win over the Dragons in 2019.

2. NEW RIVALS

North Queensland split the two fixtures with the NRL’s newest outfit in The Dolphins’ maiden season. The Cowboys rebounded from a disappointing 32-22 loss in Round 6 with a resounding 34-10 victory in Round 26 courtesy of a Zac Laybutt double.

3. RIGHT MAN FOR THE JOB

Laybutt has won the race for the vacant right centre spot in Todd Payten’s side. Laybutt will partner veteran Kyle Feldt on the right edge. The 22-year-old registered four appearances in his maiden NRL season in 2023 and was a revelation upon making his International Debut for the PNG Kumuls in the end of season Pacific Bowl.

4. CHASING HISTORY

Feldt is within touching distance of Matt Bowen’s all-time Cowboys try-scoring record. The 32-year-old needs just two tries to equal Bowen and three to stand alone as the greatest try scorer in club history. Feldt has registered 128 tries in his 192 games for his home-town club.