Hodges aiming for Cowboys opener

Justin Hodges is determined to be fit for Brisbane’s opening round clash with North Queensland, after suffering a hamstring injury in the trial win over Melbourne.

Hodges, 28, has had scans on his injured leg and will find out the extent of any damage in the coming days.

But the former Sydney Roosters centre remains confident of playing in the Cowboys clash on March 11.

“It is a bit of a pain in the bum but it comes with playing footy,” said Hodges after the game.

“It’s only minor and I have come back from much worse things than this, so hopefully I will be right for round one.”

Hodges, who missed the entire 2010 season with an achillies injury, was forced off early on in the 28-6 victory over the Storm at Redcliffe.

Melbourne meanwhile, were forced to play without centre Beau Champion who suffered a calf problem, while winger Chase Stanley limped off with a dead leg in the opening minutes.