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Five things you need to know: Round 8 v Knights

The North Queensland Toyota Cowboys host the Newcastle Knights at Queensland Country Bank Stadium on Saturday night.

1. ROLLING AT HOME

North Queensland and Newcastle have gone win for win over the previous five seasons, although the Cowboys are on a home winning streak against the Knights. The Cowboys have won the previous six games between the two sides in North Queensland, with the Knights most recent victory coming back in 2015.

2. MAC’S BACK

Veteran Cowboys prop Jordan McLean has been named to return from injury in a crucial inclusion for Todd Payten’s side. McLean has missed the previous two games with a hamstring injury. His return will come as a straight swap for co-captain Jason Taumalolo, with Reuben Cotter moving to lock.

3. ANZAC ROUND

Playing out of Australia’s largest garrison city in Townsville, the Anzac Round fixture is one of the biggest on the calendar for the Cowboys. North Queensland will play in specially designed Anzac jerseys, which will be available to purchase via auction following the game. Keep an eye on the Cowboys social channels for auction details.

4. ON A STREAK

The Knights have been Valentine Holmes’ favourite opponent over the course of his NRL career. Holmes has scored 15 tries in just 11 games against the Knights, crossing the stripe in all but two games. Holmes scored 16 points in his most recent appearance against the Knights, scoring a try and kicking six goals from as many attempts in the 36-16 Round 9 victory last season.

5. STATS UPDATE

Holmes ranks third in the NRL with 39 tackle breaks. Chad Townsend remains second in the competition with seven try assists and third in total kicking metres with 3175. Reece Robson sits fourth in the NRL with 313 tackles.

Acknowledgement of Country

North Queensland Cowboys respect and honour the Traditional Custodians of the land and pay our respects to their Elders past, present and future. We acknowledge the stories, traditions and living cultures of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples on the lands we meet, gather and play on.