Derby demands sellout

Packed stadium ensures Cowboys appreciate support from home fans

IT’S the Queensland rugby league rivalry that just keeps delivering blockbusters.

The next chapter in the North Queensland Cowboys versus Brisbane Broncos saga is just two days away and the home club is preparing for a last- minute rush on tickets.

The teams have only been separated by a maximum of six points in their past five clashes, with the Cowboys claiming bragging rights in four of those.

The intensity and excitement of each game is not lost on the Cowboys’ players who say, despite their heavy injury toll, they are confident of another hard- fought win.

Winger Kyle Feldt said he had fond memories of the rivalry as a young Cowboys fan and the Ignatius Park College product said having a big crowd behind them always gave the players a boost.

“It’s the Queensland derby and I take a lot of pride in playing at home against the Broncos,” Feldt said.

“Growing up in Townsville and following the Cowboys when I was younger, it was one of the games that I always loved to go out to and watch.

“Everyone always gets up for this game and it’s something everyone wants to play for.

“I know there’s plenty of tickets left so if anyone can, then grab a ticket and head out there. It’s going to be a good game and we need a big crowd.”

Antonio Winterstein also encouraged fans to get to the game, saying a packed- out 1300SMILES Stadium would bring out the best in both of the teams.

“It always a good contest when we come up against the old Broncos and it won’t be any different this Thursday,” Winterstein said.

“The boys are really looking forward to it.

“The more people we can get to turn up to the game, the more both teams will put on a good show.”

Cowboys CEO Greg Tonner said the Queensland derby was one of the club’s biggest games of the year and had been the No. 1 contest in NRL’s recent history.

“Thursday is our biggest game of the season,” he said.

“There are still around 3500 tickets available both in the stands and in general admission. We’d love to see the stadium sold out to show the boys we’re there behind them. They’ve played with such heart these past few weeks and now more than ever they need our support and to hear the deafening chant of a vocal home crowd.”