The Manly Warringah Sea Eagles face the Cowboys in Townsville on Thursday for Round 7 of the NRL Telstra Premiership.
North Queensland are in strong form, riding a four-match winning streak against the Titans, Storm, Dragons, and Broncos.
Like the Sea Eagles, the Cowboys had a rocky start, losing their first two games to the Knights and Tigers.
Historically, Manly has a favorable record against the Cowboys, winning 61% of their encounters since 1995, including all four at Queensland Country Bank Stadium.
Last season, Manly dominated both matchups, winning 42-12 at 4 Pines Park and 24-6 with a second-half shutout at QCB Stadium.
For team news, Manly welcomes back experienced prop Siua Taukeiaho, who is returning from a calf injury, maintaining an unchanged lineup.
The Cowboys, however, see Braidon Burns returning from an ankle injury, taking Murray Taulagi's spot (HIA), while Soni Luke steps in for Reed Mahoney (HIA) at hooker.
Both teams are on a six-day turnaround following victories in Round 6 last Friday night.