The Roosters looked like premiership contenders in their 32-18 win over North Queensland, but it was difficult to escape the feeling that the result didn't mean all that much.

It did mean something, of course, because games between top-eight teams at this time of the season always do, and both the Tricolours and Cowboys aspire to greater heights than a Saturday afternoon match a month out from the semi-finals.

The entire sport is still processing Paul Green's death earlier this week, but North Queensland and the Roosters have stronger links to the departed coach than most.

Aside from his playing days at both clubs, Green coached at the Roosters as part of their 2013 premiership before joining North Queensland the following season, where he made history and became a club legend.

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Nearly every single Cowboys player on the field played under Green. His roots run deep up Townsville way.

Jason Taumalolo grew into rugby league stardom under Green's guidance, and there was palpable emotion in his voice after the match when he spoke about his former coach.

"There's no real words to express what has happened over the past few days and how it has affected a lot of people in the rugby league community and families," Taumalolo said.

"I can't imagine what Amanda and the kids are going through.

"Everyone should have someone to talk to regardless of how big or small a problem is. No-one should have to carry that sort of pressure around with them.