Cowboys prepare for biggest test of season
COWBOYS coach Paul Green says he knows his team’s greatest test is yet to come, despite a strong run over the last month that has seen them win four straight.
North Queensland are facing a tough run home, with the Roosters, Storm, Panthers and Sharks awaiting them over the next month before they meet the Broncos in the final round.
While they have plenty of momentum taking them into the last six weeks, they are also cautious of their recent success, given their four consecutive victories have come against bottom-eight teams, Panthers, Raiders, Rabbitohs and Warriors.
Green says he knows his side is not viewed as a serious title contender at the moment but he thinks how the Cowboys handle the next month could change that.
“We’ve had an easier run so far,” Green said.
“The test is yet to come for us. I don’t think teams will really consider us as title threats until we see what happens after the next six weeks.
“I’m happy with the run we’ve got in (to finals). It’s going to certainly put us in the picture with where we’re at compared with other teams.
“We want to build into the finals. We know there’s improvement in us. That’s what the last eight weeks has been about and what the next six weeks will be about.
“It’s about looking for that continual improvement so you’re playing your best footy at the right time of the year.”
Green has made just one change to the side that beat the Warriors last week, with Antonio Winterstein named to return from a calf injury.
Javid Bowen is still in the 21-man squad in case Winterstein does not prove his fitness before Saturday’s clash with the Roosters.
Shaun Fensom (rib) is also in some doubt for the match, but will be given until the end of the week to recover.