Five things we learned: Brisbane Broncos v North Queensland Cowboys

ONCE again the Queensland derby has delivered in spectacular fashion. Here are the five things we learned from the golden point thriller.

Cowboys Johnathan Thurston kicks the winning field goal. Pic Peter Wallis

ONCE again the Queensland derby has delivered in spectacular fashion.

This time, it was Johnathan Thurston who stole victory for the Cowboys in golden point.

1. Johnathan Thurston gave Ben Hunt a lesson in how to win a close game. Hunt showed no interest in wanting to kick a field goal during golden point and has never kicked one in 168 NRL games. Thurston stepped up and delivered victory with his first opportunity in extra-time.

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2. There is no better rivalry in the NRL than the Broncos and Cowboys at the moment. Four of their past five clashes have gone into extra-time and the two Queensland rivals have produced remarkable contests for the ages. Bring on round 26 when they meet again.

Jordan Kahu is congratulated by team mates after scoring a try.

3. Brisbane’s young forwards have aimed up so far this season. Tevita Pangai Jnr provided noticeable impact when he came on during the first half and Herman Ese’ese played his best game for the Broncos with 170m. Knights recruit Korbin Sims has been strong in his two games starting and the signs are good in the front row department for Brisbane.

4. Cowboys youngster Coen Hess is a State of Origin player in the making. Hess has unbelievable strength and showcased it when he broke through three Broncos defenders to score North Queensland’s first try. He did something similar against the Raiders last weekend and is developing nicely.

5. Jason Taumalolo may be ruing his stinging shoulder charge on Alex Glenn. Taumalolo could not help himself when he lined up Glenn with a solid hit in the first half, but it could cost him two weeks on the sidelines. The NRL came down heavy on shoulder charges in round 1 and Taumalolo is facing an anxious wait.