New Cowboys recruit Brett Firman was a prominent feature as North Queensland notched a form-reversing 38-18 win over the Penrith Panthers in a NRL clash in Townsville.

The Cowboys raced in five first-half tries and with a handy 30-6 halftime lead were under no pressure from an error-riddled Panthers outfit as rain and wind hampered play.

Brought in from the Roosters two weeks ago to replace Chris Sheppard (St George Illawarra), Firman cut his teeth in Queensland Cup last weekend, but coach Graham Murray said he would throw him in "at the deep end" as his side searched for just their second win in six matches.

Firman marked his first game by scoring a try and having a hand in two others.

"He played well," was Murray's assessment of the busy playmaker.

"During the week, I said to him, 'There's no pressure on you, I don't expect too much out of you tonight, and I just want you to go out there and play a normal halfback's game'.

"He had a hand in or scored the first three (Cowboys tries), and I thought it was very special like a halfback can play."

For Firman himself, the decision to move north was a good one after struggling with form, injury and playing behind the in-form Brett Finch at Bondi Junction.

"I enjoyed the first half, obviously the second half - I didn't struggle - but the rain probably dampened (the performance) a bit," Firman said.

"It was a good game to get started on."

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