Statement Made: Cowboys trounce under-strength Melbourne

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North Queensland Cowboys v Melbourne Storm

North Queensland have cemented their spot in the NRL's top 4 with a resounding 30 point victory over the Melbourne Storm before a big crowd at Queensland Country Bank Stadium.

Melbourne again came in under-done, with Jahrome Hughes withdrawing late once again. After a tight opening ten minutes, it was a bizarre passage of play which saw the Cowboys take the first points. A short drop-out from Melbourne failed and Tom Gilbert charged his way to cross for the opening try of the evening, Holmes converted for the early 6-0 advantage. Melbourne was their own worst enemy throughout the match, constantly putting themselves under pressure conceding penalties and coughing up possession.

Inside the opening twenty, the Cowboys picked up another try when Tom Dearden found Reece Robson to give the home side a 12-0 lead. Melbourne hit back on the stroke of half-time when Harry Grant linked up with Felise Kaufusi to cross and give the visitors some hope before the break. 

Then, the Cowboys went into overdrive putting together a flawless second half raid against Melbourne. Murray Taulagi continued his good form crossing in the left corner, after finishing off a lovely set play to establish their twelve point lead. Three minutes later, the leading try-scorer for the forwards Jeremiah Nanai crossed showcasing his strength and power to give the home side an 18 point lead.

Four minutes later, it was much of the same, Scott Drinkwater capitalised on some poor Melbourne defence to give the Cowboys their third try in the space of seven minutes showcasing the hype that has followed the team in recent weeks. Five minutes later, Air Nanai took off grabbing the grubber kick and securing the final margin of thirty points. The less we say about the final 20, the better. It was a mistake-filled final quarter.