Cowboys told to worry about fixing errors, not Titans

Coach Todd Payten's message to his North Queensland players was simple but telling. (Darren England/AAP PHOTOS)

Todd Payten has gone back to basics and told North Queensland players they must fix up their errors if they are to arrest their mid-season form slump.

Sunday's clash with the last-placed Gold Coast looms as crucial in North Queensland's year, with the Cowboys in a freefall after entering the round in 12th place on the NRL standings.