North Queensland Cowboys’ Michael Morgan had never played fullback prior to the trial matches

FIRST year custodian student Michael Morgan has been cramming for his weekly exams by studying professors Anthony Minichiello and Billy Slater.

Cowboys' Michael Morgan had never played fullback prior to the trial matches.

FIRST year custodian student Michael Morgan has been cramming for his weekly exams by studying fullback professors Anthony Minichiello and Billy Slater.

Morgan, who was under pressure to retain his position before a star turn in the Cowboys’ victory over Newcastle, had never played fullback prior to the trial matches.

He has the speed and play-making ability to a success in the No.1 jersey that was meant to belong to the injured Lachlan Coote.

But Morgan’s lack of instinct and experience ensures he is relentlessly targeted.

News_Image_File: Michael Morgan in action for the Cowboys.

So in a Townsville bunker, the 22-year-old has been studying footage of the custodian greats ahead of tonight’s game with upstart club Wests Tigers.

“I have done vision on guys who are very good and have been around a while,” Morgan revealed.

“I looked at a bit (of video) with Furns (assistant David Furner) and Greeny (Paul Green).

“A bit of defensive stuff from guys like Minichiello. He’s a very good defensive fullback.

“I have looked at Billy Slater too, just position wise.

“It is slowly starting to pay off. I’m still learning.”

Tonight’s Campbelltown clash is the second match in a 12-day three-game stretch for the Cowboys which includes two Sydney fixtures.

News_Rich_Media: North Queensland coach Paul Green has praised Michael Morgan who continues to impress in his new role as fullback.

They won the first, Monday night’s home rout over the Knights.

The Tigers are followed by a Friday night grudge match against Manly at Brookvale.

While Paul Green has repeatedly said Morgan and their new structures required patience from fans, the next fortnight will require the Cowboys to be at their best.

Thankfully, Morgan appears to be a quick learner.

He has bagged three tries this year, second for fullbacks behind Greg Inglis.

Morgan admitted that prior to playing the role, he under-appreciated how hard it was to be a fullback in the NRL.

News_Image_File: Cowboys' Michael Morgan scores a try against the Knights.

He now prefers it to five-eighth and centre, the roles he played throughout his junior and senior career.

“There is a lot more to it then I thought. I just thought you caught the ball and ran it back,” Morgan said.

“I knew I wouldn’t pick it up straight away.

“It is not what I expected. If you asked me two weeks before the season started I definitely would not have thought I was playing fullback.”