The Queensland Maroons forward pack dominated State of Origin game one, but the return encounter in Sydney last night saw a complete role reversal as the NSW Blues ran riot over their northern neighbours. There is no point panicking after one game, but I’m sure the Maroons won’t enjoy their individual player ratings.
Billy Slater
Made one memorable run early in the second half, and was always a threat, with NSW giving him plenty of counter-attack opportunities in the first 30 minutes. Fantastic, as usual, under the high ball, apart from one second half mistake.
Rating: 7
Jharal Yow Yeh
Didn’t see a lot of ball, and was caught out in defence on at least two occasions.
Rating: 4
Greg Inglis
Still looks short of a gallop, and is certainly nowhere near his best form, but in an ominous sign for the Blues for game 3, he looked to be returning to his devastating best. I do wonder if a move to the backrow is on the cards for his career soon?
Rating: 7
Dane Neilsen
Queensland didn’t utilise their left side attack very much, and Neilsen was out of position a few times defensively.
Rating: 4
Darius Boyd
Completely forgot that attempting to smash Gasnier might not always be what’s best for the Maroons’. His ego therefore allowed Uate to run free on several occasions, and whilst he supported his fullback well on NSW’s kicks, Queensland would have been looking for more from Boyd.
Rating: 4
Darren Lockyer (c)
Was at the centre of most of Queensland’s attack opportunities, but they were few and far between. The Origin legend will be hoping his forwards improve in game three.
Rating: 6
Johnathan Thurston
It was far from JT’s best game for Queensland. Was under constant pressure from NSW’s numerous backrowers, and seemed to get flustered.
Rating: 5
Ashley Harrison
Whilst we’re somewhat use to not noticing Harrison, it’s normally because he’s underrated, as opposed to him lacking impact. But he was almost non-existent last night.
Rating: 3
Sam Thaiday
Ran and tackled with gusto, but appeared frustrated that NSW played with the passion and energy usually reserved for the Brisbane backrower. Also fell for the most obvious trick in NSW’s arsenal: Ennis’ baiting.
Rating: 6.5
Nate Myles
Whilst there was no word from the Roosters or the Maroons, Myles looked to be carrying an injury. If he wasn’t, he should have said he was. At least then he would have an excuse.
Rating: 4
Matt Scott
Didn’t dominate like game one, and seemed to struggle with the pace of the game.
Rating: 5
Cameron Smith
Absolutely outstanding in a losing side. His dummy-half play was exceptional and his defence rock solid. I’m not sure I’ve ever seen a better number 9 in rugby league.
Rating: 9
Petero Civoniceva
See Matt Scott.
Rating: 5
Interchange:
Cooper Cronk
An x-factor in game one, he was a non-factor in game two, despite seeing early action. Whilst the four-pronged kicking option worked a treat in game one, Cronk looked lost and without a role in game two.
Ranking: 4
Corey Parker
I struggle to remember Parker doing anything of note in attack, though he made a few tackles. Otherwise, a forgetful game.
Ranking: 4
Ben Hannant
Was he playing?
Rating: 3
David Taylor
Made a barn-storming run with his first touch, just seconds after coming onto the field. When he made another one minutes later, it seemed the Blues were in for a long, bruising night trying to defend the big unit. However, he didn’t sustain that level of impact.
Rating: 6.5
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