North Queensland produced a dramatic late surge, scoring three tries in the final seven minutes to secure a shock 28-24 win over Melbourne after trailing 24-12 late in the match.
A fourth try to Will Warbrick appeared to have sealed the result for the Storm, but the Cowboys responded through Sam McIntyre before Tom Dearden set up Heilum Luki to level the scores.
Braidon Burns then sealed the win with a decisive solo effort, his second try of the game. Despite a tense finish involving multiple bunker reviews, the Cowboys held on, easing pressure on coach Todd Payten.
The loss marked another costly collapse for Melbourne, who have now repeatedly surrendered double-digit leads in recent seasons.
