The Raiders are determined to hit the ground running after a week off when they host the Cowboys on Friday night. 

Ricky Stuart's side enjoyed a chance to reset and refresh after a thrilling golden point win over the Dolphins in round 13. 

Jordan Rapana was the hero on that occasion, kicking two field goals, including the 87th-minute winner.

Friday's clash shapes as a crucial one for both teams with the Raiders desperate to remain in touch with the top four and defend home turf in Canberra. 

The Cowboys will travel south chasing a quick turnaround following a disappointing 42-12 loss to the Warriors in Townsville on Saturday night. 

North Queensland currently sit 12th, two points outside the eight and need a win to maintain their position on a cluttered ladder. 

The match shapes as a four-point game for the Cowboys, with the bye to come in Round 16.

Sportsbet Betting Preview - Raiders v Cowboys

Team News

Raiders: Hudson Young returns after missing Round 13 on Blues Origin duty, so Ata Mariota reverts to the bench. In what has been a trend in 2024, Josh Papali'i goes back to the bench in a swap with Emre Guler. No late changes to the 17. 

Cowboys: Harrison Edwards, who joined the squad on Thursday as an injury replacement for Jordan McLean (calf), will start at prop, with Griffin Neame on the bench. No other changes, with Murray Taulagi (shoulder) and Reece Robson (neck) both back on deck. 

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Stat Attack

  • Raiders second-rower Hudson Young has scored four tries in his last three NRL games.
  • The Cowboys have won their past four games against the Raiders.
  • The Raiders have conceded 84 points in their last two games at GIO Stadium.
  • Hooker Reece Robson will make his 100th appearance for the Cowboys.
  • Raiders fullback Jordan Rapana has scored seven tries in his last four games against the Cowboys.

This article contains content that is only available on NRL.com

Stats supplied by David Middleton, League Information Services, author of the official annual of the NRL