Canberra Raiders youngster Ethan Strange has pressed his claims for a starting halves spot with a standout showing in the team's final pre-season trial, however he faces a nervous wait after being put on report for a dangerous tackle.
The halfback led an undermanned Raiders side to a 14-8 half-time lead before a stacked North Queensland Cowboys took control in the second 40 in front of 6048 fans at Seiffert Oval.
Cowboys winger Kyle Feldt crossed for a hat-trick in his side's 36-26 victory. The result denied Canberra the title of Pre-Season Challenge champions.