Cowboys pause form slump with tough win over the Titans

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Gold Coast Titans v North Queensland Cowboys

The North Queensland Cowboys have temporarily paused a form slump picking up a 30-24 victory over the Gold Coast Titans in wet conditions at Cbus Super Stadium.

The Titans had early opportunities to score, but errors proved costly, with Chris Randall twice spilling the ball in attacking positions. The Cowboys capitalised on the Titans' mistakes, opening the scoring through Zac Laybutt after a 70-metre burst from Scott Drinkwater set up a clever short-side play.

The visitors quickly doubled their lead when Murray Taulagi brushed past a weak tackle from Allan Fitzgibbon to score, extending the Cowboys' advantage. However, ten minutes before half-time, the Titans clawed their way back into the contest with Beau Fermor powering over for a converted try to reduce the margin to 12-6 at the break.

The second half mirrored the first, with the Cowboys starting fast before the Titans mounted a spirited comeback. Scott Drinkwater extended the Cowboys' lead in the 47th minute, diving over to score his first try of the night. Moments later, Jeremiah Nanai added another, pushing the margin to 24-6 and putting the Cowboys firmly in control.

Momentum swung in the Titans' favour soon after. AJ Brimson scored a try in the 54th minute, capitalising on a chaotic play where Brian Kelly's kick inside was fumbled by Tom Dearden. Jojo Fifita followed suit, crossing the line to bring the Titans within six points after Tom Weaver nailed the conversion.

The Cowboys halted the Titans' momentum with ten minutes to go, as Scott Drinkwater secured his second try with a moment of brilliance sparked by Reece Robson's quick work out of dummy half.

Inside the final five minutes, Phillip Sami gave the Titans a glimmer of hope with a converted try, narrowing the margin to six points again. However, the Cowboys' defence held firm, ensuring they walked away with a 30-24 win.

Next week, the Titans enjoy a bye before another Queensland derby against the Brisbane Broncos in a fortnight. Meanwhile, the Cowboys face a daunting clash against the Melbourne Storm as they look to maintain their winning form.