North Queensland Cowboys v Canterbury Bulldogs
1300SMILES Stadium
Saturday 7.30pm
It was the better part of a week ago but that incredible cover tackle from Bulldogs duo Frank Pritchard and Sam Kasiano is still fresh in the minds.
Like scud missiles, the two front-rowers launched themselves in perfect synchronicity toward the target of Tonga's Jorge Taufua in the dying stages of the Samoa v Tonga Test match.
It was a game-saving play from the Samoans, and is the kind of effort the Doggies will need to replicate often if they are to get away with the two points against a white-hot North Queensland side.
Two weeks ago this shaped as one of the more enthralling games of 2015, but both clubs have since been hit with injuries and suspensions to key players.
Nevertheless this one shapes as an interesting match-up of speed against brute force.
Recent times have seen utter carnage for the Cowboys, who have been required to make multiple changes. Matthew Wright returns in the nick of time to replace Tautau Moga. Jason Taumalolo's knee injury sees John Asiata taking his spot at lock, while Kelepi Tanginoa comes on to the bench, and Rory Kostjasyn returns to the interchange in place of Scott Bolton.
For Des Hasler's men, Moses Mbye gets another crack at five-eighth after another Josh Reynolds' suspension, Josh Morris returns from a syndesmosis injury, and David Klemmer is back after serving time for dissent. He will replace Antonio Kaufusi who joins Sam Kasiano on an extended bench.
