EVEN JT NEEDS A TEAM TO WIN

COWBOYS players have admitted they’ve been guilty of “going back to old habits” by taking a back seat and putting too much pressure on Johnathan Thurston and Matt Scott.

The side overcame the absence of their injured co- captains to make last year’s grand final, but Jason Taumalolo said the Broncos exposed a lack of assertiveness from teammates in Friday’s loss.

Thurston in particular was outstanding and set up all three North Queensland tries, and would have laid on a matchwinner had Scott Bolton not clattered into the goalpost late.

“We spoke before the season started that having them two back could give a few boys a way out with those leadership roles, and it definitely happened,” Taumalolo said.

“We got away with it in Round 1 ( against Cronulla), and last week we got found out. This week we spoke about challenging each other and with JT and Matt Scott there, not being complacent and just letting them lead the team.

“All of us 17 have to stand up and do our part.”

The possible return of Michael Morgan for Thursday night’s grand final rematch in Melbourne could ease the load on Thurston, who ran the ball to the line numerous times in a strong sign he has confidence in his surgically repaired shoulder.

Morgan ( stomach) completed yesterday’s session and got through some contact work. However he got through contact work earlier in the season and was still ruled out after pulling up sore the next day.

Winger Kyle Feldt said they couldn’t expect the return of their leaders to be the difference after the grand final loss to the Storm.

“We’ve gone back to old habits where we just rely on him and Matty Scott to really get us going,” Feldt ( pictured) said.

“Last year we didn’t have them and still made the most of the year. If we go back to that and not put all the pressure on him ( Thurston) and Thump ( Scott), it’s up to all of us to take the pressure off those two.

“He ( Thurston) is the best player and they’re going to target him. You have to take the pressure off as much as you can.”

Thurston’s display against Brisbane was a huge improvement on his Round 1 performance, and Taumalolo has noticed an extra spring in his step.

“He might be older but he definitely plays like he’s still young by putting the body on the line, and taking the ball to the line,” Taumalolo said.

“It’s great to see Johnno fresh and full of running in his legs. In saying that you can’t put that to waste by letting him do all the work and taking a back seat.

“Everyone needs to step up and help him out there, and help Matt Scott.”

Bench forward John Asiata said Morgan’s potential return would help ease the load on Thurston.

The Cowboys badly missed his speed and x- factor in Brisbane.

“I thought he trained well, he finished the session and pretty much did everything. Hopefully he pulls up well the next couple of days,” Asiata said.