The North Queensland Cowboys kicked off their NRL pre-season challenge campaign with a 34-30 victory over the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs at Jubilee Stadium on Saturday, holding on for the win despite a strong second-half comeback from the Bulldogs after building a significant lead before the break.
The Cowboys dominated the opening 40 minutes, with halfback Jake Clifford playing a key role as he looks to cement a starting halfback role for the season opener.
North Queensland led 28-6 at halftime, with Clifford instrumental in the points that seemed to put the game beyond the Bulldogs’ reach, or so it appeared.
Also Read: Sri Lanka turn to Pramod Madushan after Eshan Malinga ruled out of T20 World Cup
Heilum Luki’s spectacular return set the tone early, while Robert Derby scored twice and back-rower Kai O’Donnell also crossed in the first half.
Off-contract playmaker Jackson Purdue showcased his skills with a kick that set up a try for centre Zac Laybutt, as the Cowboys’ edge combinations clicked into gear.
The Bulldogs, playing with a youthful side under coach Cameron Ciraldo, looked a little shaky in defence initially, but found considerable energy after the interval.
Five-eighth Joseph Joseph Teaupa turned the tide of the match, including a kick that led to a try for debutant Aaymon Fitzgibbon, as Canterbury piled on the points and narrowed the deficit to four.
With the Bulldogs closing in rapidly, North Queensland steadied themselves late through fullback Mason Barber, who produced a crucial play in the dying moments to help secure the win for the visitors.
The match also provided a glimpse of some new faces for the Cowboys, with forward Wiremu Greig having a busy debut in the middle.
For coach Todd Payten, this result keeps the focus on the selection battle ahead of the club’s season opener against the Newcastle Knights in Las Vegas.
