Eagles swoop in North Queensland

The Northern Eagles have defeated the North Queensland Cowboys 28-12 at Dairy Farmers Stadium tonight.

Trailing by just 6-4 at half time and running into stiff breeze in the second half, the visitors dominated a disappointing Cowboys outfit. The home side were given ample opportunities but were unable to finish their movements and often fumbled possession close to the opposition's line (see pic).

The Eagles ran away with the game in the second half with tries to Kelly, Kafusi and Goddard as the Cowboys forwards forgot how to muscle up.

Two players were sin binned with Chad Randall (Eagles, 59th min) and Glenn Morrison (Cowboys, 64th min) both being sidelined following ruck infringements. Referee Tony Archer gave both teams several warnings earlier in the match.

Cowboys fullback Matt Bowen scored a well deserved try late in the match but the Cowboys defence opened up again right on fulltime with a try to Eagles when MacDougall crashed over.

The match ended in some controversy when try scorer MacDougall had a heated discussion with Eagles' team mate, Brendon Reeves. Both players shaking hands but still debating the issue as they left the the field.

5:30PM, 13 July 2002 Dairy Farmers Stadium Referee: T Archer

NQ Cowboys 12 (Tries: Sing, Bowen. Goals: Hannay 2/2) defeated by Northern Eagles 28 (Tries: Kelly, Kafusi, Goddard, MacDougall. Goals: Williamson 6/6)

League Unlimited best players 3 - Menzies(Eagles). Led from the front for the full 80 minutes backing up from the previous nights Test match 2 - Kafusi (Eagles). Scored a try and worked hard all night. 1 - Bowen (Cowboys). Saved at least one try with some guts and determination. The little fullback scored a try as well. Playing well behind a losing pack.