Thurston presses claims,
Johns injured

Rival coaches Graham Murray and Michael Hagan have urged Australian selectors to pick Johnathan Thurston in the Anzac Test after he starred in North Queensland's 18-16 NRL win at Newcastle today.

The sellout match was dubbed a possible grand final preview due to the scintillating early-season form of both teams. Halfbacks Thurston and Andrew Johns delivered performances to match the hype, Thurston holding his own against Johns, scoring a try and coming up with some crucial plays to get the visitors home.

Johns struggled for most of the match after rolling his ankle, with club doctor Neil Halpin admitting he was in some doubt for the clash with Melbourne next Saturday.