There’s no questioning Tom Opacic’s first season in North Queensland was a resounding success.

Recruited from Brisbane last August, Opacic won a starting centre spot in Paul Green’s Round 1 side to face St George Illawarra.

He returned to the Queensland Cup in Round 3, but after being recalled to the top grade in Round 8 he would emerge as one of the shining lights of the season for the Cowboys.

Opacic’s seven tries were the third most of any Cowboy and his solid defence and carries out of his own end would also prove huge assets.

His right-edge combination with Kyle Feldt proved dynamic as the season progressed, with the duo combining for 18 tries between them.

Opacic’s best performance came against St George Illawarra in Round 15 when he scored a double, broke three tackles and made 16 tackles without a miss.

2019 stats

Games: 19

Tries: 7

Try assists: 5

Line-breaks: 6

Tackle breaks: 43

Average run metres: 96