"Calm" Kodi set for Cowboys test

Dolphins' injury-hit squad is looking to bounce back to top form for Friday’s state derby at North Queensland Cowboys.

See the team list here 

Lock Ray Stone admitted today the NRL’s newest club was below par in the 38-12 defeat at Dragons on Saturday.

“Last week we fell away from what we are about,” the 25-year-old said, “Dragons came to play. We were a bit off our game.

“Our effort was there but the execution wasn’t. We need a proper performance.”

Dolphins will be without Anthony Milford who is facing four weeks or more on the sidelines with a hamstring injury.

Kodi Nikorima (feature picture) will come in as five-eighth while Isaiya Katoa will play halfback at the Queensland Country Bank Stadium as Milford’s replacement. 

Second rower Kenny Bromwich missed training today, but it is reported to only be a stiff neck.

“All preseason we prided ourselves on effort,” Stone said, “so whoever comes in (on Friday) … they are just going to have to bring that same effort.”

The former Parramatta Eels forward described Kodi Nikorima as “another calm head”.

“He has a heap of skill. He’s got a bit of that x-factor as well which comes in handy for us,” Stone said.

“All in all, we need to bring effort - and he does. I reckon he can do a job. That’s the main thing. He’s played all the positions and fits into our team really well.”

Stone also welcomed the possible return of Rueben Cotter, from a knee injury, for Cowboys.

“Every team you verse you want them to have their strongest side,” Stone said. “Our best team playing their best team.

“We don’t want short cuts. We want full strength so we can test ourselves.”

Dolphins clash with the Cowboys in Townsville on Friday kicks-off at 8pm.