COWBOY STAKES CLAIM

Payten backs Cotter for Origin debut after ’best’ North Queensland win

COWBOYS coach Todd Payten believes tenacious utility forward Reuben Cotter could be in line for a Maroons jersey after a barnstorming start to the season.

The Sarina Crocodiles junior has exploded into Origin contention this season after a matchwinning performance in the Cowboys’ upset victory over the Eels in Darwin on Saturday.

While a lot has been made of the Cowboys’ exciting young guns Jeremiah Nanai and Heilum Luki, Cotter has flown under the radar over the opening eight rounds of the season.

But that all changed after Saturday night.