The North Queensland Toyota Cowboys are set to clash with the Canberra Raiders in a highly anticipated NRL match at Queensland Country Bank Stadium on Saturday, March 29, 2025. Kickoff is scheduled for 4:30 p.m. local time (AEST), and fans are eager to see if the Cowboys can turn their season around against a formidable opponent.
Currently sitting at the bottom of the NRL ladder in 16th place, the Cowboys have struggled so far this season, with only one victory to their name. Their recent form has seen them suffer heavy defeats to the Sea Eagles (42-12), Sharks (36-12), and Broncos (26-16). Despite these setbacks, the Cowboys are determined to recapture the form that saw them reach the semifinals last year.
Head Coach Todd Payten has finalized his lineup for the match, making adjustments in hopes of securing a crucial win. The Cowboys will feature a strong starting 17, including captain Tom Dearden, who will lead the side as five-eighth. The fullback position is held by Scott Drinkwater, while the forward pack includes the likes of Jason Taumalolo and John Bateman, both of whom are expected to play pivotal roles in the match.
In contrast, the Raiders come into this match sitting in 8th place, having started their season with promising back-to-back victories over the Warriors and Broncos. However, their momentum was halted in their last outing, where they suffered a heavy 40-12 defeat to the Sea Eagles, trailing 30-0 at halftime. This loss has raised questions about their consistency, particularly as they prepare to face a desperate Cowboys side.
The Raiders have also made some changes to their squad, with Joseph Tapine returning from a two-game suspension to bolster their forward pack. Tapine's presence is expected to make a significant impact, especially in the battle for dominance in the middle of the field. However, the Raiders will be without Morgan Smithies, who has been ruled out due to a concussion.
When looking at historical matchups, the Cowboys have reason to feel optimistic. They have won five of their last six encounters against the Raiders, a statistic that could play a psychological advantage heading into this clash. Additionally, the Raiders have struggled in their recent visits to Queensland, winning only one of their last five matches at this venue.
As the Cowboys aim to turn their season around, they will look to capitalize on their home advantage. The Queensland Country Bank Stadium is known for its passionate atmosphere, and the Cowboys will need the support of their fans to push them through a challenging match.
The Cowboys lineup for the match is as follows:
- 1. Scott Drinkwater
- 2. Robert Derby
- 3. Jaxon Purdue
- 4. Viliami Vailea
- 5. Murray Taulagi
- 6. Tom Dearden (c)
- 7. Jake Clifford
- 8. Jordan McLean
- 9. Reece Robson
- 10. Jason Taumalolo
- 11. John Bateman
- 12. Kai O'Donnell
- 13. Reuben Cotter (c)
- 14. Sam McIntyre
- 15. Jeremiah Nanai
- 16. Griffin Neame
- 17. Coen Hess
- 18. Karl Lawton (18th man)
Meanwhile, the Raiders will field the following team:
- 1. Kaeo Weekes
- 2. Savelio Tamale
- 3. Matthew Timoko
- 4. Sebastian Kris
- 5. Xavier Savage
- 6. Ethan Strange
- 7. Jamal Fogarty
- 8. Josh Papalii
- 9. Tom Starling
- 10. Joseph Tapine
- 11. Hudson Young
- 12. Matt Nicholson
- 13. Corey Horsburgh
- 14. Owen Pattie
- 15. Simi Sasagi
- 16. Trey Mooney
- 17. Ata Mariota
- 18. Danny Levi
- 19. Jed Stuart
- 20. Pasami Saulo
- 21. Albert Hopoate
- 22. Adam Cook
As the match approaches, excitement builds among fans and analysts alike. Will the Cowboys manage to secure their first win of the season, or will the Raiders bounce back from their recent defeat? With both teams eager to make a statement, Saturday's clash promises to be an enthralling encounter.
Fans can catch the action live on Fox Sports, with streaming options available through Kayo Sports. For those unable to attend, live scores will be updated from 5:30 p.m. AEDT, providing real-time insights into the match as it unfolds.
As the Cowboys and Raiders prepare for battle, one thing is certain: the stakes are high, and every moment counts in this thrilling round four showdown.
