NRL

They were on the wrong the end of an all-time hammering from the Roosters in NRL Round 22. 

Read more Arden Says Philippines Online Gambling Contractions Reflect Stronger Regulation

Now North Queensland will attempt an all-time turnaround as they take on the Gold Coast Titans to kick off Round 23 on Thursday night. 

Speaking to the media, Cowboys head coach Todd Payten said the Titans game ‘couldn’t come around quick enough’ for his side after last week’s embarrassing 82-12 home defeat.

“It wasn’t nice, but what happens in one game doesn’t dictate our season,” Payten said.

MORE: Australian coach stood down by Super League club, investigation pending

“The first 24 hours was calming the staff down, then just reassuring the players that one game doesn’t define us,” he added.

“We’ve beaten three of the top four teams, Manly away, Broncos twice, Melbourne at full strength, so the scenario doesn’t change… we now have an opportunity to play well tomorrow (Thursday).” 

Reflecting on the aftermath of conceding the third highest score in premiership history, Payten admitted his squad had taken a major hit while accepting it was thoroughly deserved.

“There was absolutely disappointment, a bit of embarrassment and shame… and so there should be,” he said.

Read more Belo Horizonte City Council to Vote on Bill Banning Betting Advertising

“Anything that came our way from a commentary point of view was deserved, I asked the players and staff to turn up to the Leagues Club after the match, it’s important that we front up together and we did that.

“We’ve addressed it and now we’re moving forward.”

‘Last weekend was poor, beyond poor’ admits Todd Payten

Despite the gloom of Round 22, the Cowboys boss stressed he’s been around the NRL long enough to know nothing is ever going as well or as bad as people think.

“I know what we’re capable of, we’ve seen it multiple times this year,” he declared.

“Last weekend was poor, beyond poor, but we still sat ninth after the round and there’s an opportunity for us to play finals. 

“We’re super keen to get out there and prove people wrong and go after the game.”

The Cowboys face the Titans at Cbus Super Stadium on Thursday night to start NRL Round 23. Kickoff at 7:50pm.

Read more South Korea Tourism Groups Push Back Against Casino Reform Proposals