The red-hot Cowboys host the Manly Sea Eagles at Queensland Country Bank Stadium in Townsville this Thursday to open Round 7 of the NRL.<\/p>\n
After rough starts to their seasons, both clubs have turned things around with strong winning runs.<\/p>\n
North Queensland have won four straight, with their latest victory a thriller against the Broncos that lifted them into the top four.<\/p>\n
Manly looked in trouble heading into April, but have responded with a big win over the Dolphins followed by a gritty result against the Dragons last week.<\/p>\n
Both sides bring momentum, but the Cowboys should edge this one. They are undefeated at home this season, while this is Manly\u2019s third straight road game.<\/p>\n
North Queensland\u2019s forward pack, led by Jason Taumalolo, Coen Hess and Reuben Cotter, has been outstanding and should prove the difference.<\/p>\n
The Cowboys landed 1-12 for us last week and shape as a strong play again here.<\/p>\n
This sets up as a free-flowing contest, with both teams scoring heavily in recent weeks.<\/p>\n
Manly have posted 52 and 28 in their last two games, while the Cowboys have scored 30, 28, 32 and 35 during their winning streak.<\/p>\n
Neither defence has been particularly strong, with Manly conceding 18+ in every game this season and the Cowboys doing so four times.<\/p>\n
Luki scored the match-winner against the Broncos and also crossed in their win over the Storm.<\/p>\n
He continues to develop as a key attacking option on the right edge, and with confidence high, looks a strong chance to score again.<\/p>\n