New South Wales selectors have announced the Blues team for the opening game of the 2014 State of Origin series, which kicks off in Brisbane on May 28th.
There were a few legitimate surprises, with coach Laurie Daley moving away from his favoured halves pairing of 2013. There is no loyalty policy in play in the Blues camp this year – but a mix of form players and strong past performers being picked.
This NSW team is a strong one, despite injuries and off-field issues, but whether it’s enough to finally end the Blues drought in the inter-state classic remains to be seen.
More State of Origin:
» State of Origin News
» State of Origin team news
» The Roar’s NSW Blues team for Origin 1
» The Roar’s Queensland Maroons team for Origin 1
The team is:
1. Fullback – Jarryd Hayne
Close to an automatic selection due to his stunning and consistent performances in the sky blue jumper in the past, the only real question about Hayne was what position he would be selected in. In fantastic club form – not always a given in recent seasons – Hayne was selected in his favoured fullback spot, which should allow him free reign to pop-up wherever he can be at his most threatening in attack. The Maroons will test his defensive positioning, but it has come on in leaps and bounds in recent years.
2. Wing – Brett Morris
Big, strong and fast, Morris is the prototypical modern day winger. It’s a cliché used on many players, but Morris knows where the tryline is and has penchant for elite-level finishing. Like all the NSW backs, he’ll be tested in defence, but his combination with his brother should provide some trust and stability on the right-hand side of the park.
3. Centre – Josh Morris
The other Morris twin will be asked to mark up once again opposite the most devastating attacking weapon in rugby league, Greg Inglis. It’s a daunting task, and though you could hardly say GI has been contained over the last couple of series, Morris has done as good a job as anyone defending Inglis. The Blues will be also look for Josh to make an impact in attack, something he’s been great at within the club ranks, but hasn’t quite displayed in Origin just yet.
4. Centre – Michael Jennings
An explosive centre with blistering pace and strong leg power, Jennings holds onto to his spot in the Blues line-up despite some recent injury concerns. He’s been one of NSW’s best over the last few series, and the Blues will once again look for him to provide something special in attack. He can score a try from nowhere with his speed and nimble footwork, and it will be incumbent upon the new NSW halves pairing to give him plenty of ball so he can weave his magic.
5. Wing – Daniel Tupou
The Roosters winger will debut for the Blues in Origin I. He’s sure to be nervous, but if he can handle the mental strain his physical gifts are sure to trouble the Maroons. Tupou has a little x-factor about him. He is dangerous in the air, and is capable of scoring freakish tries; all qualities that are very handy in an Origin winger. He’ll need to be on his game defensively though, because as Nathan Merritt can attest, once Queensland notice a weakness, they exploit it with ruthless efficiency.
6. Five-Eighth: Josh Reynolds
One of the form players of the NRL competition, and a man that’s a bulldog on many levels. He’s a niggler and a pest. He’s scrappy and tough. He’s intense and passionate. Which all means he’s a great selection for the Blues. In the past I’ve questioned whether he has the creativity required to play extended minutes in the halves at this level, especially alongside a halfback that’s also limited in that aspect of play. However, though he’ll never be confused with Andrew Johns, he’s improved tremendously in this area.
7. Halfback: Trent Hodkinson
The elevation of the Bulldogs’ number seven means that NSW may have finally called time on the Mitchell Pearce experiment. Hodkinson is in great form for the ladder-leading Bulldogs – especially with the boot – and comes with a ready-made combination with Josh Reynolds. He’s level-headed, a good defender and an automatic two points with the boot, which makes this an astute selection by the Blues selectors, even if it is surprising that Pearce was dropped.
8. Prop – Aaron Woods
The Tigers prop has been in scintillating club form, and the Blues will simply require more of the same in Origin. If Woods can provide incisive runs, solid defence and the ability to handle the early fire and brimstone from the Maroons pack, he’ll have done the job he was selected for.
9. Hooker – Robbie Farah
There were concerns the Wests Tigers number nine wouldn’t be fit for the opening game after suffering a nasty elbow injury a few weeks ago. But Farah’s toughness has once again been highlighted, and he’ll retain his spot at hooker. Though he tried to do a little too much in last year’s series, he’s still a phenomenal player and will be a major key to any hopes of a Blues series victory.
10. Prop – James Tamou
I rate Tamou highly, but I’ve been slightly underwhelmed with his performances this year. He’s still been good, but I was looking for him to make a ‘leap’ this season, and be regarded as one of the best players in the game. I think even Tamou’s biggest supporters would agree that he’s not there yet, but he’s still an important player for NSW, with his size and athleticism capable of getting the Blues forward pack on top of their opposition. He will be looked upon to make an impact early and often.
11. Second-row – Ryan Hoffman
The athletic backrower is the type of dependable workhorse that every team needs. Though he rarely does anything flashy, Hoffman is fantastic runner on the fringes and very reliable in defence. I’m fairly certain I said this last year, but you can book him in for a ‘7 out of 10′ player rating right now, and that type of consistency is a luxury coaches love to have.
12. Second-row – Beau Scott
The Knights forward has been selected, despite not playing last night against Manly. However, Scott’s abdominal injury wasn’t considered serious, and the defensive specialist will take his place in the Blues’ back row. Scott has played well in previous Origin encounters, and his toughness and experience will be a welcome addition to the NSW pack. The loss of Greg Bird’s aggression will unquestionably be felt by the Blues, but the selection of Scott ensures that Queensland will still come up against a player they don’t love matching up against.
13. Lock – Paul Gallen
Gallen brings a toughness to the Blues’ forward pack, along with the painful sting of being involved in many of the recent series losses. Though some would argue he’s been the common denominator in the Blues losing streak, his performances on the field could never be called into question. He’ll once again eat up the metres in attack, punish in defence and certainly won’t back down.
Interchange:
14. Trent Merrin
I don’t mean to sound harsh, but Merrin has often given the impression of ‘just making up the numbers’ during his Blues career. Though you can be noticed for all the wrong reasons at this level, Merrin has sometimes been Mr Invisible for NSW. I’ve been reminded by Roarers that he was actually good in game 3 last year, and the Blues will be hoping he can continue on with that Origin form in this series.
14. Anthony Watmough
A great weapon off the bench for NSW, Watmough is the perfect reserve: someone that will have immediate impact in both attack and defence. His low centre of gravity and leg power make him extremely hard to tackle. Let’s be honest, he’s got plenty of mongrel in him too, a quality that’s always sought after in Origin encounters.
16. Luke Lewis
The veteran forward returned to action two weeks ago with the Sharks after sitting out the start of the NRL season due to the injuries he sustained when he crashed into advertising hoardings during the World Cup in England last year. Though he played at five-eighth in these games, Lewis will play off the bench in the backrow for the Blues. The NSW hierarchy are placing a lot of confidence and trust in a player with just two games under his belt this season. If he’s rusty and makes mistakes, blame the selectors, not Lewis.
17. Tony Williams
The wrecking ball. That tells you all you need to know about T-Rex’s role off the bench for NSW. In short, sharp bursts, Williams will be called upon to bend the Queensland defensive line, and bruise some ribs in attack. Much-maligned since he moved to the Bulldogs, he’s actually been in very good from this season and is running onto the ball a lot more. Though somewhat an enigma, the Maroons won’t be looking forward to tackling him when he enters the game.
Can’t get enough Origin? Roarers also picked their own Origin teams.
The Roar’s New South Wales Blues team for Game 1
The Roar’s Queensland Maroons team for Game 1
Vikki Gibbs
Guest
About your comment, you obviously didn't watch the Big Mal moaning whinging and whinning about Haynsey's Try, I did and talk about 'the biggest moaning whinging crying sook you ever did see'. And Darius Boyds crying as well on another sports show....Nah they whingers and cryers and moaners and cry babies. And I was on a Train heading back to Central Station in Brisbane and talk about QLD'ers crying, not one single word I heard on the whole train, that is until someone popped up and said, 'well NSW didn't play all that well', to which I replied SCORE BOARD SCORE BOARD! Nah Chez, they THE BIGGEST SOOKY CRY BABIES YOU EVER DID SEE!
Chuznut
Guest
I feel like everyone's moved on from this article except for you Vikki. You keep abusing all of the QLDer's for their whining, when no one else has made a comment on here in 4 days. Maybe just accept the win with a bit of dignity, and we can all move on to the next game.
Vikki Gibbs
Guest
We NSW are use to defeat and sorrow and pain but you QLD'ers, well, grow up, the Series hasn't been decided yet. But you can't even cope with one Loss, guess the loss at Suncorp brought you all to your knee's. I'd say by now NSW have a very healthy respect of their opponents and also a bit of self belief in themselves that they can give it back to them as good as they get it. GO THE BLUES NEXT GAME, WIN THE SERIES AT HOME, and after that who cares who wins the last Game, it's the Shield that we want to see you hold up at Sucorp.
Dave
Guest
lol bet you feel like a fool now with this remark!
Vikki Gibbs
Guest
Cut some slack. QLD are not as great as you all think they are, the Series have only been won by 1 or two points and most of the eight series wins have come right down to the wire. With Slater, Cronk, Smith and Thurston, QLD SHOULD HAVE WON BY 100 POINTS. Then throw in G.I., THERE'S ANOTHER 100 POINTS IN ADDITION TO THE 100 POINTS ALREADY ACQUIRED. You QLD'ers only Win right at the end of a Game, and it's just more sheer luck than anything, especially the past three series. It's not a Runaway, as you QLD'ers would believe yourselves into thinking it is! NSW have made some stupid mistakes, pull out Pearce and wolla, I hope all the mistakes NSW have made will disappear with Pearce and Maloney not in Game1 tonight, lot of good that little 'experiment did' at NSW detriment. You shouldn't have any Player in a Team they you 'hope that will do the Job', most other players have to earn their rightful spot right up until Selection time, unlike Pearce whom thought he was wasn't disposable! (Too bad, to Bad MP and JM). Even if NSW loose I still would deem it irresponsible for MP to play again UNLESS HE REALLY EARNS HIS SPOT LIKE THE REST OF THE PLAYERS HAVE HAD TO DO. I'm staring at beautiful Brissy through my wonderful Hotel Room and what a beautiful City, let the games begin. See you tonight Suncorp Stadium. GO THE BLUES!!!!!!!
Vikki Gibbs
Guest
I'm in QLD and they have
Vikki Gibbs
Guest
Oh you all stop predicting who will Win, none of us knew who would win right until he last minute Game 3, 2012-2013. Different year, different Series, may the Best Team Win...but I'm hoping...(not predicting) it will be my beloved Blues. They said there will be 50,000 Maroons there, well there will be that many Maroons and me, can't wait to be a Suncorp yelling my little old heart out for my Blues. GOOOOOO THE BLUES, BRING IT ON HOME THIS YEAR!
Andy coco
Guest
I'm a blue through and through and full heartily believe that we will win when we loss Laurie Daly as the selector. Where is Adam Reynolds and Mick Ennis, nsw need mongrel
Vikki Gibbs
Guest
Well said, I'm With you, Lewis will grow another body under that Blues Jumper come Game Time. The more QLD target him the more he 'will become The Blue Hulk!'
Vikki Gibbs
Guest
Someone made the comment that if NSW loose again this year, the problem is more psychological than it is physical and I believe that too. We do have a Dynomite Team, even QLD'S know this, and The Preparation is much more in tune with Big Mal's eight year winning mentality so bring it on NSW. The blogger also commented that it was about time we selected a half back that 'we don't just hope will live up to high expectations', well said too! Besides Pearce's off field drunken antics, which involved a 'finger sticking up NSW NRL Integrity Code', (which involved another drinking binge at The Star 'after' he was released from Custody for his earlier drunken rampage and twice evictions from top nosh drinking establishments,) he hasn't done absolutely nothing to warrant automatic selection as soon 'the finish whistle blows Game 3 of Origin that years Origin. He 'can' play at Club Level, but however 'wishful and hopeful' Mr Daley still is, Pearce has had 12 games 'to prove he can lead his team around the literal Origin playing field'. His ability as Half Back should have gotten us over the line the last two Series, not 'if, buts or why's' about it. I'm glad Pearce is gone (at least for Game 1 of this Seriers), I know QLD's are extremely sad for our loss, because they know Pearce was nothing but a 'easy walk over' and that 'they had him right where they wanted him.' Go The Blues, I'll be there at Suncorp screaming my little ole heart out for ya's, BRING IT ON!
Duh!
Guest
If Lewis is rusty, it's not because of lack of form due to an injury sustained from crashing into an advertising board during the last kangaroos tour. He is recovering from cancer!
Julie
Guest
Why don't the blues give Titan luke Douglas a run, he is a work horse, also another young player just watch him in the bulldog line up is josh Jackson, both are hard workers and great enthusiasm..
dr.greenthumb
Guest
Pearce was horrible last series and doesn't deserve another shot ,I hope the new halves can kick better than Pearce's shocking efforts, its crucial to get the kicking game right this year.
Alex
Guest
I think nsw has a strong team over the park .we needed change and time will only tell. It will be won three the middle . Go the blues
Ra
Guest
Good team. I'm not a T Rex fan though, he just goes missing too much.
Matthew Buxton
Roar Pro
I like the team. Pretty balanced all around. Keen to see how the doggies boys go! Loving Scott in there. Watch out JT
john badseed
Guest
My Blues 1. Stewart 2. B. Morris 3. Hayne 4. Jennings 5. J. Morris 6. Reynolds 7.Hodkinson 8. Gallen 9. Farah 10. Tamou 11. Watmough 12. Hoffman 13. Lewis 14. Buhrer 15. T-Rex 16. J. Jackson 17. Tolman
kepaku kipalimanda
Guest
two years ago blues once recruited Jamie soward as if he'll bring the magic from his leading NRL team at that time and it did not work.... will this new halves from the leading team make any difference against the same team that killed Jamie's morale and make their way to a green and gold jumper? I d rather say rarely....
so so funny...
Guest
I wonder if Freddy has a photo of Mitchell Pearce in his wallet.
so so funny...
Guest
You sure? Seemed to me like Freddy was speaking in the affirmative- Making a definite statement that nobody could have done a better job than Pearce. I was simply pointing out that this is tough to argue against AFTER the fact. Freddy might have a man crush.. Enough of that though, good luck to the blues this year- it's a good side and there has not been a lot in it these last few years.