North Queensland Toyota Cowboys coach Paul Green has called up Kyle Feldt to replace Antonio Winterstein, who has withdrawn from Saturday night’s game against the Newcastle Knights for personal reasons.
Feldt was part of the Townsville Blackhawks' round one win over the Mackay Cutters in their Intrust Super Cup debut last weekend with a try in the first half.
“Feldty has got his opportunity this week – it’s up to him what he does with it and I’m sure he’s been in good form,” Green said.
"He played well for the Blackhawks last week and I’m sure he’ll not let us down."
Green said in his final pre-match interview that last-tackle-options had been a focal point during the team's training this week, after the halves pairing of Robert Lui and Johnathan Thurston came under plenty of pressure from the Roosters.
“It’s such an important part of the game, not just Robbie but Johnno as well, Morgo, the guys who kick really need to get that part of our game right.”
In their come-from-behind victory over the Warriors in round one, Newcastle broke the line six times and had a 73% completion rate in the 24-14 win.
Captain Kurt Gidley will also return in the number one jersey for the visitors this week.
“They’ve got very good outside backs, very good at getting their sets started," Green said.
"They’ve also got smart halves so they can move you around a bit too.”
