Newcastle coach Brian Smith has lauded returning Origin duo Danny Buderus and Kurt Gidley as the catalysts behind his side's 30-18 victory over North Queensland on Monday night.

The win, on the back of a two try haul from Gidley and a masterful display from Buderus at hooker, comes only five days after the draining 30-0 NSW Origin loss to Queensland at Suncorp Stadium.

The post Origin victory against a luckless Cowboys outfit sees Newcastle move into the top eight on percentages.

Smith was lavish in his praise of Gidley who bagged a second half double in a whole hearted display.

"I think Gidley and Buderus led the way for us tonight," Smith said.

"That last try by Gids was just enormous extra effort to seal the win for us."

After returning from Origin Smith said his two star players were spot on mentally coming into the match.

"Those guys have so much pride when they lose they are just keen to get back on the horse and get a win as quickly as possible," he said.

"They love to win.

"I was very happy to see Kurt Gidley drag those guys over and slam that ball down.

"It typifies the guy he just never gives up, never."

Smith also gave special mention to Newcastle half Jarrod Mullen's dominant display after shifting to halfback following the withdrawal of Scott Dureau.

"Mullen is the one affected by the injuries he is the one who goes from half to five-eighth," Smith said.

"He is an all round genius as you all saw tonight and he can do it easily, no problem."

The young half was reluctant to enter into talk of a possible recall to Origin following his side's victory.

"I don't mind what position I play they are pretty much the same these days one just feeds the scrum," Mullen said.

"It is up to Smithy what he wants to do and I have the up most trust in him.

"There are a few halves in contention for Origin so whoever is playing well will get the spot."

Brought to you by AAP © 2024 AAP