Speaking to the media on Wednesday, Des Hasler says Canterbury can’t wait to play premiers North Queensland in a blockbuster clash tonight at Belmore Sportsground.

The Bulldogs need the win as Cowboys legend Johnathan Thurston returns to the ground where it all started.

“It’s something that we can really use in our favour. It’s such a great ground for that purpose and with a full crowd, hoping the weather stays favourable, a big crowd here at Belmore will be back to those rare suburban days which are pretty special,” Hasler said.

But it hasn’t been a happy return in recent times as Canberra completely outplayed the Bulldogs in the last match played at their spiritual home.

“Canberra played well and we don’t like losing, but the game here at Belmore tomorrow [tonight] will be a good attraction.”