North Queensland has continued its good run of form with a convincing 20-point victory over the Penrith Panthers at Pepper Stadium.
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After defeating Melbourne in golden point last Monday for their first victory of the season, the Cowboys have posted another win through the direction of Jonathan Thurston.
Matthew Wright bagged three tries for North Queensland and there was a hint of controvery after Penrith had two tries disallowed.
It was former Cowboy James Segeyaro who drew first blood in this encounter.
Then Thurston made his mark, showing his tremendous passing ability to help set up Wright for his first try.
Lachlan Coote got in on the action next, getting a hand to a Thurston kick. Then Penrith’s Matt Moylan got over the line, but great North Queensland defence stopped him from grounding the ball.
The Cowboys were in front 16-6 at the break. Early in the second half Thurston put Ethan Lowe over for a try.
Wright added his second of the evening and this finally stirred the Panthers into action. Nigel Plum responded with a four-pointer and Penrith weren’t finished scoring.
Dean Whare crossed next after the ball was shifted to the right flank. Then Josh Mansour dived over from dummy half, but the try was disallowed by the video referee.
The Panthers had some momentum but it was not enough. Thurston knocked over a penalty to give the Cowboys breathing space and he still had time to throw a cutout pass to Wright to complete his hat-trick.
The try finished off a great night for North Queensland, winger Wright and their classy captain Thurston.
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