Queensland Country Bank Stadium will play host to Saturday's NRL game between North Queensland Cowboys and Newcastle Knights. The game kicks off at 7:50 pm with North Queensland Cowboys heading into the game as favourites with the bookmakers. Continue reading for our in-depth preview of the North Queensland Cowboys vs. Newcastle Knights game and give you our free tips and bets.
When: Saturday September 14, 2024 at 7:50 pm
Where: Queensland Country Bank Stadium
Bet 💰: Bet On This Match HERE
North Queensland Cowboys vs Newcastle Knights Odds
North Queensland Cowboys vs Newcastle Knights Preview
The Cowboys secured fifth spot with strong late-season wins, setting up a home elimination final against a resurgent Newcastle Knights, who grabbed the last Top 8 spot.
North Queensland closed out the season with six wins in their last seven games, including dominant performances against Canberra (42-4) and Canterbury (44-6). The Cowboys showcased their best against the Bulldogs, capitalising on strong forward play and quick ball movement. Heilum Luki was a standout, while Jake Clifford shone at halfback. Jordan McLean’s return adds further strength to their pack.
Newcastle has also found form, winning four of their last five games and entering the playoffs on a high. Last week’s gritty 14-6 win over the Dolphins, featuring strong goal-line defence and Kalyn Ponga’s class, provided a solid finals dress rehearsal.
Despite Newcastle’s improvement, they have a poor 1-9 record against Top 8 teams. With the Cowboys finding form at home, they remain strong favourites.
Head To Head Bet
We're tipping North Queensland Cowboys to win at $1.36 odds.
First Try Scorer
First Try Scorer: Murray Taulagi at $9.75.
North Queensland Cowboys vs Newcastle Knights Teams
Cowboys team: 1. Scott Drinkwater 2. Kyle Feldt 3. Valentine Holmes 4. Viliami Vailea 5. Murray Taulagi 6. Tom Dearden 7. Jake Clifford 8. Jordan McLean 9. Reece Robson 10. Jason Taumalolo 11. Heilum Luki 12. Jeremiah Nanai 13. Reuben Cotter 14. Sam McIntyre 15. Harrison Edwards 16. Kulikefu Finefeuiaki 17. Griffin Neame 18. Jaxon Purdue 19. Chad Townsend 20. Thomas Mikaele 21. Marly Bitungane 22. Tomas Chester
Knights team: 1. Kalyn Ponga 2. Fletcher Sharpe 3. Dane Gagai 4. Bradman Best 5. Greg Marzhew 6. Jack Cogger 7. Phoenix Crossland 8. Daniel Saifiti 9. Jayden Brailey 10. Leo Thompson 11. Tyson Frizell 12. Dylan Lucas 13. Adam Elliott 14. Tyson Gamble 15. Mathew Croker 16. Jack Hetherington 17. Brodie Jones 18. Thomas Cant 19. Will Pryce 20. Jackson Hastings 21. Kyle McCarthy 22. Kai Pearce-Paul