Cowboys’ prodigal son Clifford shines after lifeline

Jake Clifford left North Queensland when Tom Dearden arrived in 2021 but now the in-form halves pairing are keys to the Cowboys’ finals hopes and future success.

Half Clifford and five-eighth Dearden will line up in the elimination final against Cronulla in Sydney on Friday night with similar back stories.

That fact is not lost on 26-year-old Clifford who returned to the club this year after stints at Newcastle and Hull FC.

On May 29, 2021 Clifford was released by North Queensland to join the Knights, the same day Dearden joined the club after being unwanted by Brisbane and also secured a release.

Queensland representative Dearden, also the Cowboys co-captain, has been a mainstay of the side for the past three seasons, but on his return Clifford had to bide his time for most of this year in the Queensland Cup with Northern Pride before getting a regular gig.

Cowboys coach Todd Payten made the tough call to drop veteran No.7 Chad Townsend after the round-23 loss to the Broncos and install Clifford to partner Dearden, and the decision has paid off.

“Me and Tommy had similar starts to our careers. There were a lot of expectations early and maybe we didn’t meet them,” Clifford told AAP.

“We left different clubs at different times and both came back better players. Growing up has helped that as well and it is great to see Tommy do so well leading this footy team.”I love playing with him. He is the ultimate competitor and the more we play together the more our combinations are going to grow stronger. Hopefully we can be the halves for the next couple of years.”

Clifford scored a try and set up two in the round-24 win over Canberra and hasn’t looked back since Payten recalled him.

“I just had to stay patient and be ready all year,” he said.

“I was playing with a lot of confidence back in the Q Cup and winning games. During that Origin period I thought I did a pretty good job filling in for Tom.

“When the decision was made (by Payten) I didn’t put too much pressure on myself to try and set up three tries and do things I didn’t have to.

“Todd just kept it really simple for me – to run well, kick well and tackle well – and that is what I have been trying to base my game on.”

Townsend, who will join the Sydney Roosters next year, has also been helpful and has not kicked stones.”I have had his full support. Me and Chaddy get on real well outside of football and he has been a big help,” Clifford said.”I have learned how he handles himself with the team and communicates in such a calm manner.”Dearden’s running and passing game is his strength. Clifford is also more than handy in those areas but it is his booming boot that sets him apart.”It is a strength of mine and the more I can put it in corners or put floaters up it doesn’t let fullback or wingers get comfortable,” he said.

Clifford has secured an extension for 2025, and if his form holds should be at the club beyond that.

“The decision to come back home has paid off and my family and myself are very happy here,” he said.