Two sides with one win apiece go head-to-head in a game that will test their defensive resolve.
After being held scoreless in their Round 1 loss, the Cowboys bounced back in a high-scoring match against the Dragons, posting a 38-34 win with doubles to Tiana Raftstrand-Smith and Jakiya Whitfled helping claim the win that saw them just outpoint the Dragons who proved hard to shake.
After their impressive opening round victory, the Eels fell just short against the Sharks in their 18-16 loss after letting their opponents come-from-behind twice. Parramatta enjoyed 62 percent of the ball and were leading 10-6 at half-time, but could not hold them out.
Eels coach Steve Georgallis said it would be a learning curve for his still relatively inexperienced side.
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Team News
Cowboys: After playing in the position for much of last week's win over the Dragons, Krystal Blackwell has been named at fullback this week, with England star Francesca Goldthorp moving onto the wing. Young prop Lillian Yarrow has been named to make her NRLW debut from the bench with Shaniah Power out. One hour before kick off, coach Ricky Henry has made a few changes, with Libby Surha to come in for Ebony Raftstrand-Smith on the wing, while Lily Peacock will start with Tallisha Harden to the bench.
Eels: The Eels remained unchanged for the match-up against the Cowboys. Parramatta were leading 10-6 at half-time, but let in tries at both ends of the second half to hand Cronulla the game, with goal kicking proving the difference in the end in the 18-16 loss. Although still new to the game, centre Rory Owen impressed with her second try in her second outing and also made 181 run metres. No changes in one hour before kick-off to the 17, with Tafao Asaua the 18th player.
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Stat Attack
- The Cowboys have won only two from six at Queensland venues.
- The Eels play their second game in Brisbane in three weeks.
- Cowboys second-rower Tiana Raftstrand-Smith has scored four tries in her past six NRLW games.
- Eels centre Rory Owen has scored a try in her first two NRLW appearances.
Stats supplied by David Middleton, League Information Services, author of the official annual of the NRL.