Morgan the man in defeat of Titans

MAROONS utility Michael Morgan helped put the disappointment of a State of Origin opening loss behind him by guiding North Queensland to a much-needed 20-8 home NRL win last night over Gold Coast.

With Cowboys captain Johnathan Thurston still sidelined, Townsville junior Morgan, pictured, played arguably his best game of the season, the halfback bagging a try and impressing with his kicking game all night.

Opposing Origin star Jarryd Hayne had a largely forgettable night, the Blues’ centre barely noticeable in a Titans side needing some spark.

Outside of a 10-minute period up to halftime, the Titans struggled and were outscored 14-0 in the final term to slip to another listless loss.

North Queensland looked promising in attack and enjoyed 65 per cent of possession in the opening 20 minutes but couldn’t finish a number of half chances.

After a mountain of pressure and possession, the Cowboys were finally rewarded when Morgan powered over for a signature running try.

Winger Kyle Feldt missed an easy conversion attempt but, soon after, a penalty goal took North Queensland to 6-0 nearing halftime.

The Titans were then quick to pounce on a Cowboys error, as Dale Copley combined with Ash Taylor to send the Titans’ halfback over for an impressive 50-metre try.

While a stellar Lachlan Coote tackle stopped a certain Gold Coast try, a ruck penalty allowed Taylor to boot the Titans to an unlikely 8-6 halftime lead.

The Cowboys began the second period with attacking intent and were rewarded when standout rookie Coen Hess stormed over for his ninth try of the year to recapture the lead for the Cowboys.