Unlikely allies have emerged for maligned NSW halfback Mitchell Pearce ahead of next week’s State of Origin series opener – Queenslanders.
Maroons prop Dylan Napa claimed his Sydney Roosters teammate Pearce had been “hung out to dry” by the Blues in the past.
And Queensland backrower Aidan Guerra believed no NSW halfback could have stopped the Maroons juggernaut that has now snared 10 of the last 11 Origin series.
Pearce has earned another Blues recall for May 31’s Origin I despite his horror NSW record and it’s one Pearce doesn’t have to be reminded of.
He has endured 11 losses in 15 matches for the Blues. His series tally is 0-6.
Napa admitted Pearce was an “easy target” but backed the rejuvenated playmaker to step up in Origin I after he found career-best NRL form this season.
“I am stoked to see Mitch back in the Blues jumper,” Napa said.
“I think he was hung out to dry a bit there. A lot of the pressure was put on him and as a halfback he has to take some but I think he was an easy target.”
Guerra said he had seen first hand how far Roosters teammate Pearce had come in the past 12 months and was wary ahead of Origin I.
“I play with him week to week and I know what he is capable of,” Guerra said.
“If Pearce can steer that ship around we will definitely have to keep an eye on him and apply some pressure on him.”
Asked about Pearce’s poor Origin record, Guerra said: “I don’t think any No.7 that NSW picked over the last decade would have beaten that Queensland side over that period. But he is the right man for the job now.”
Queensland halfback Cooper Cronk did not believe Pearce would be haunted by his Origin past when he runs onto Suncorp Stadium.
“He warrants selection,” Cronk said.
“I don’t know Mitch too much but from the outside looking in, he has obviously changed a few things off the paddock and I wish him well.
“Come game one what has happened before doesn’t play a part.
“Whether you have had success or not had success… come next Wednesday night there is nowhere to hide.”
Footy 101
Guest
Wrong Nayfo. Pearce kicked a field goal in extra time which should have been a penalty due to marker interference. No, it's not a number 7's fault when a team lose, it's not Pearce's fault NSW lost all those series although he was exceptionally bad in game 3 2013. Truth is, he's not a brilliant half, but NSW don't have any brilliant halves at present. I hoped the changes
eagleJack
Roar Guru
Yep, agree. Pearce was outstanding against Manly. He definitely wasn't the reason for them losing. His taking on of the line, and short kicking game meant he was a constant danger. That try he scored was pure determination. I've never understood the mentality that when a team loses it must be the 7s fault. Similarly, when the Storm played the Sharks, their one true test this year, are we to say that Cronk and Smith failed to deliver? Therefore, aren't really up to it??
Nayfo
Guest
Wrong, Pearce's toughest game was against the Dragons where he stood up and delivered. The Roosters were never in the game against the Broncos who blew them off the park early and against Manly Pearce scored what looked like the match winning try only to be beaten by some Dykan Walker brilliance a couple of minutes later.
Footy 101
Guest
If NSW lose which sadly I think they will, they need a clean out. Captain Cordner should not be an automatic selection for next year, he'll need to re-earn his spot. Captain should have nothing to do with team selection, that's up to the coach and his assistant ONLY. I actually think someone like Brett Kimorley might be the right option.
BigRed from PNG
Guest
Thanks Daley for bringing in MP.
catcat
Roar Rookie
I am more concerned about Hayne at centre...with regards to Pearce I am ready to back him (again) , his club form is great I expect a solid performance and hoping for a bit more
Stuart Thomas
Expert
If I were a Queenslander, I would be backing him as well. Of course they wan't him in the team, the same as they want Woods, Morris and Dugan, they don't scare them.
Edward Kelly
Roar Guru
Good points. I like many, are over the redemption story. Hard to see who he and his media supporters can blame this time after game 1. Apart from picking 9 fullbacks and 7 second rowers in the one team.
jacksyd
Guest
Game 1 will reveal all and I am inclined to think it will be Pearce's last ever origin appearance. Dumb and Dumber (Daley and Sterling ) have taken the bait from the likes of Walters, Cronk, Ikin, etc.
up in the north
Roar Rookie
Cooper Cronk is so damned eloquent.
Footy 101
Guest
Pearce’s two toughest games this year verse Broncos and Manly. Result: 2 losses. Didn’t face the Sharks, didn’t face the Storm. Hasn’t played any other full stregth quality team. Does a couple of good fortune match winning points make someone in good form and ready for QLD? I don’t think so