Hallelujah! The selectors have finally picked a NSW Origin team on form and not incumbency. Watching the NSW coaching staff scratch their heads, wondering why they have lost three consecutive series in a row, is a bit like watching a blind person play darts: extremely frustrating.
The reason is simple – we have not picked the in form attacking players who are capable of breaking a game open with individual ability.
Make no mistake, the Blues outfit this year will take it to the Queenslanders in every aspect on Wednesday night. The creativity and intensity of NSW has tapered off badly in recent years, but strap yourself in for a game that will have plenty of points in it from both sides.
I have often been critical of Craig Bellamy’s influence on Origin. I felt he coached the fun out of the spectacle last year, and ultimately hindered the Blues’ attacking ability.
Turning State of Origin into a technical affair is like telling Mark Webber to keep it under 40km/h. It’s just not what the event is about. You want to see the best of the best thrash it out with a unique blend of steely aggression and finely crafted ball skill.
Enter Wednesday night.
I will boldly make the call right now: this will be the best Origin match in many years. It has all the hallmarks and build-up of an epic clash. Both teams are loaded with attacking talent, and the baby Blues poised to take down the star-studded Maroons!
That’s right, you heard me, David will slay Goliath on Wednesday night.
The Blues will step out of the shadow of defeat and rip the Queenslanders a new banana.
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