Love lifts gutsy prop Matt Scott through hard times MATT Scott has praised the strength of his wife Lauren for helping him emerge through an arduous nine months with a Test jersey still on his back. Scott has kept his reputation as the game's premier front-rower despite having to deal with his mother Dianne's death in the middle of last year and then make the biggest contract decision of his career. Scott's mother died after a long battle with throat cancer in the lead up to Origin III. Scott and the northwest Queensland town of Ilfracombe were devastated by the loss of Dianne. She was a hero to many in the remote community. When Scott was playing junior footy, Dianne would drive the team bus on eight-hour round trips, week in, week out. After his mother died, Scott then had to deal with the Cowboys' contentious NRL finals exit. In February he had to decide between huge offers from Sydney NRL clubs or accept less to stay in Townsville, choosing to stay at the Cowboys until the end of 2017. Matt Scott has endured an arduous nine months. Picture: Evan Morgan Scott said the support of Lauren ensured his form stayed consistent through the turmoil. "Whenever things of that momentum are happening in your life, it is tough to deal with," Scott said. My wife, Lauren, has been great. We have worked our way through these things. I'm fortunate enough to have good people around me and especially that family support. This year I have been enjoying being settled. Having that contract signed had a big part to do with that. I know where my future lies now and am happy with that decision. Scott was slightly worried that North Queensland's form would impact on his selection chances. "It is a great reward to get picked in a rep team," he said.