Queensland has lost 114 games’ worth of experience since their Game 3 win last year.
Throw in injuries to Billy Slater, Dane Gagai and Ben Hunt, and that number rises to a staggering 151 games.
With a new era about to dawn for New South Wales, it seems that the maroon flame is about to finally be extinguished.
Brad Fitler’s men seem primed and ready, and will take no prisoners in Game 1 at the MCG.
But this is exactly what Queensland want.
With their backs against the wall, it looks like tonight’s match is already taken by the Blues. However, I’m not so sure about the outcome.
State of Origin 1 complete coverage:
» GORE: Inglish massive for Queensland, but they don’t get the calls
» The funniest State of Origin ratings on the internet
» The players who stood up for the Blues; NSW Game 1 player ratings
» Who shone, who sunk for the Maroons? Queensland Game 1 player ratings
» State of Origin highlights and match report
The retirements of Johnathan Thurston, Cameron Smith and Cooper Cronk, as well as the injury to Slater sees the greatest spine in Origin history nearly come to an end. Although, this new bunch look pretty good as well.
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Queensland relies heavily on their back against the wall and love a siege mentality, so they’ll come out swinging in Melbourne. With Greg Inglis the newly appointed captain and Cameron Munster wearing the famous No.6 jersey, this game will be close.
Don’t get me wrong, the Blues will win, but Queensland will never beat themselves and this game will go down to the wire.
I’m expecting a close game with, unfortunately, a lot of penalties, but don’t count out the Maroons’ spirit. It’s always a bad move to poke the bear.
This match symbolises a new era for both teams – one starting a new chapter, and the other getting ready to close one.
The question is: who will come out on top? I say whoever wins this first game will take out the series.
What do you think Roarers? Who will win the series?
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