The last time North Queensland played Melbourne in the NRL, Cowboys coach Paul Green's post-match critique of the referees cost him $10,000.
Now Green is singing their praises.
The North Queensland mentor has applauded the assignment of Matt Cecchin and Gerard Sutton for Sunday's NRL grand final against the Storm, saying the standard of refereeing had become more consistent since his rant.
While lighter in the pocket, Green believed his scathing criticism of whistleblowers after their 26-8 round 22 loss had helped nurture a better relationship with NRL referees boss Tony Archer.
Green was livid after the Cowboys were thrashed at home by Melbourne last month, taking aim at referees Ashley Klein and Alan Shortall.
"That was the worst refereeing display I have ever seen...the fans deserved more than that," Green said after the August 4 clash.
However, Green believed there had been marked improvement from officials in the finals and had no beef with Cecchin and Sutton earning the big gig.
He said he had no complaints since a chat with Archer had helped clear the air after his tirade and the subsequent fine.
"I had a bit to say about it (refereeing) a little while before the finals," he said.
"It probably opened up some good dialogue between Tony Archer and myself in the last few weeks.
"I think the refs have been a bit more consistent.
"I am really happy with them (Cecchin, Sutton) -- they are probably the two best refs."
Green was so comfortable with Cecchin and Sutton that he said he would not request a pre-match meeting to seek clarifications.
The Cowboys fly to Sydney on Wednesday after being farewelled by a sea of blue and yellow clad fans who lined Townsville's streets for a grand final parade and airport send off.
"The start of the week is a bit hectic getting everything organised, training venues, tickets for families and all that sort of stuff," Green said.
"Once we get into Sydney we will start getting our head around the game and build up for Sunday's match."
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