XXXX things you need to know: Semi-Final v Sharks

The North Queensland Toyota Cowboys travel to Sydney to face the Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks in a Semi-Final clash.

1. BIG STAGE

The Cowboys have appeared in eight Semi-Final matches in club history, winning six, including their previous three. In fact, some of North Queensland’s most famous victories have come in Week 2 of the finals, including the historic 10-nil triumph over the Broncos in 2004, a 49-12 victory over the Warriors in Paul Bowman’s final home game in 2007, a 39-nil thumping of the Sharks in 2015 and an extra time 26-20 thriller over the Broncos in 2016.

2. FAMILIAR FOES

The Cowboys have faced the Sharks more times than any other team besides the Broncos in its history. The two teams split the two fixtures one apiece this season, with the Cowboys claiming a 30-22 victory at home in Round 21. The most recent finals meeting between the two teams was just two seasons ago, with Valentine Holmes booting an extra time two-point field goal to hand the Cowboys a 32-30 win.

3. UNCHANGED

Todd Payten has named the same 17 from last weekend’s win over the Knights to face the Sharks. In fact, other than the long-term injuries to Coen Hess and Zac Laybutt, the Cowboys head into the Sharks clash with all hands on deck. Jordan McLean again takes his place in the front row after a successful return from a hamstring injury last week.

4. CROSSING THE STRIPE

Departing winger Kyle Feldt’s 151 career tries suggests he hasn’t had trouble scoring against any opponent over his 12-year career, but the Sharks have actually been his favourite opponent. Feldt has scored 17 tries in 21 games against the Sharks, including a treble in his most recent outing in Round 21.