Targeted controversially last round, Johnathan Thurston has been tipped by rival Ben Hunt to turn the tables and have the Broncos firmly in his sights in Friday night’s NRL derby.

And Hunt should know.

The Brisbane halfback says he got to know the Cowboys playmaker in Queensland’s Origin II camp last year.

He picked up plenty of helpful tips but the biggest lesson learned was Thurston doesn’t like losing – and would be out to prove a point on Friday night.

The North Queensland halfback is hurting in more ways than one.

Cowboys coach Paul Green admitted Thurston felt “beaten up” after being controversially targeted by Newcastle’s forwards last round, mainly Beau Scott.

Adding insult to injury, pre-season title favourites North Queensland are win-less after two rounds.

“I think he is one of the most competitive players in the competition,” Hunt said of Thurston.

“He’s going to be taking the losses pretty hard and be out to prove a point.”

Hunt expected Thurston to bounce back to his best after being manhandled last round.

However, the three-time Dally M Medallist may yet be the least of their problems, with ex-Bronco Ben Hannant chiming into a world class forward pack.

“Thurston is always one of the main concerns but they have a great forward pack, and big Benny Hannant is coming back and I know he will be fired to play us,” Hunt said.

“It will be a tough physical game.

“They have had two losses and they will come here to prove a point.”

Thurston may be feeling the heat of late but Hunt reckons his maligned halves partner Anthony Milford has earned some breathing space following last round’s win at Cronulla.

“He is building into his role here,” he said.

“The more we can play together the better he is going to be.”