Australian and Maroons legend Darren Lockyer concedes the North Queensland Cowboys are playing without purpose after Todd Payten’s struggling outfit fell to Cronulla 42-6 on Sunday.

It’s been a frustrating start to the season for the men from Townsville who currently sit 8th but have dropped three of their last four matches including big losses to the Broncos and Sharks.

“They are lacking an 80-minute performance,” Lockyer told Channel Nine’s QLDER show.

“We have already said that, but they are also lacking a bit of aggression.

“They are doing their job, but they are not doing it with purpose and I think that’s telling, particularly when you’re up against a good team.”