The North Queensland Toyota Cowboys host the Canberra Raiders at Queensland Country Bank Stadium on Saturday evening.
1. STICKING FIRM
For the first time in 2025, Cowboys Head Coach Todd Payten has named unchanged 17 to face the Raiders in North Queensland. Rob Derby, Jake Clifford, Jason Taumalolo and Jeremiah Nanai all hold their spots after successful returns last weekend.
2. HOME DERBY
Cairns product Derby will make his first NRL appearance at Queensland Country Bank Stadium on Saturday afternoon. The PNG International made his NRL Debut in Round 13 of the 2023 season, but would have to wait almost two years until his next top grade appearance, which came last weekend. The 23-year-old winger has scored 28 tries in 41 Queensland Cup games.
3. ON THE ROAD
Saturday will be the last chance for Cowboys fans to see their team in action at home for almost a month. Following the Raiders clash, North Queensland play the Panthers in Sydney and Rabbitohs in Perth before a bye weekend in Round 7. The Cowboys return home in Round 8 for an Anzac Round clash against the Titans.
4. FAMILIAR FOE
The Cowboys are in the midst of a six-game winning streak against the Raiders, with the most recent loss back in Round 12 of the 2020 season. North Queensland won both 2024 fixtures, including a 42-4 triumph in Round 24 at Queensland Country Bank Stadium.
