State of Origin is all about balance. Balance in your game plan, balance in your combinations and balance on the bench.
With debate raging about who should play in the number 14 for NSW, a number of alternatives are being bandied about.
Will it be the speed, size and strength of Jack Wighton? The pure footballing nous of Clint Gutherson or the holy-grail of utilities in Tyrone Peachey? Another suggestion is that Roosters missile merchant Victor Radley could be a goer in the role, but he lacks the versatility of the aforementioned trio and would likely end up simply playing as an extra forward. If that was the case, there’s a few big men ahead of him.
What hasn’t been spoke about is how important Rabbitohs’ ace Cameron Murray could be to the final decision. He’s an absolute certainty for a spot in Fittler’s final 17 and if used wisely could provide a significant chunk of the utility value that is so desperately craved in the modern Origin arena.
While he may not have the versatility of a Peachey, Wighton or Gutherson, Cameron Murray can play on an edge, through the middle and from dummy half. What he won’t do however, is cover for the backs or the halves if something goes wrong.
Enter Ryan Matterson.
The Wests Tigers recruit is having another standout year in the NRL and such is his form that he’d likely handle a starting spot if thrown into the deep end for Game 1. With Tyson Frizell having a mortgage on that right edge however, Matterson could be an absolute master stroke from the interchange.
During his time with both the Roosters and now the Tigers, Matterson has literally played everywhere from wing to front row.
His selection, along with Murray, would also provide genuine fluency to the interchange bench. We all remember in 2016 when Dylan Walker – an out and out centre – was selected on the pine only to be thrown on way too late with no particular role in mind. It was a waste of a bench spot and ultimately impacted the balance of the forward rotation as a whole.
Matterson and Murray would nullify that risk.
Even if his versatility isn’t called upon in the event of injury or sin-binning, Matterson has the frame and ball playing ability to play as an impact forward.
Ryan Matterson of the Tigers (AAP Image/Steve Christo)
In addition, Murray’s lightning play the ball speed will be liquid gold for the likes of Damien Cook and James Tesdsco when the Queensland big men tire.
In essence, Matterson and Murray would both add spark as out and out forwards. Their utility value is a bonus.
It takes two to tango and in Matterson and Murray, NSW could have the perfect interchange jive. With the Blues likely to head into the 2019 series as red hot favourites, they need to get everything right.
Including balance.
Chris Love
Roar Guru
Cracking article and well argued. I have to agree with you. With all these injuries going around I would love to see this team run out for game 1. 1. James Tedesco 2. Blake Ferguson 3. Latrell Mitchell 4. Josh Morris 5. Josh Addo-Carr 6. Cody Walker 7. Luke Keary 8. Payne Haas 9. Damien Cook 10. David Klemmer 11. Boyd Cordner 12. Tyson Frizell 13. Jake Turbo 14. Ryan Matterson 15. Cameron Murray 16. Tevita Pangai 17. Paul Vaughan.
Superspud
Roar Rookie
He provided far more for the Roosters than the big money recruit they have in his place is this season. You don't need to be winning man of the match awards to be a valuable member of a team.
Rob
Guest
Would love to see Haas get a start but not sure if they'll take the risk. Don't want to see RCG anywhere near the Blues side.
Albo
Roar Rookie
You know what I think about Cam Murray. He would be in my starting side at 13 every time, even moving Jurbo to prop to accommodate him. He has the best tackling technique of any player in the game, and offers plenty with the ball in hand despite his smaller size. Both he & Jurbo would play big minutes for me. Matterson would be a handy 14 for his versatility or as an edge forward if Cordner or Frizell are injured.
souvalis
Roar Rookie
If Freddie stays true to his word and picks primarily on form and injuries he’s going to need to make around 5 changes...the halfs,Turbo,Debellin Peach and the number 10 jersey shared by RCG and Matthew Prior.. Murray looks the goods,Matterson has that coverage appeal and is a reliable, smart player...but Haas in the number 10 that’s the bold tip I hope the Blues chance.
BA Sports
Roar Guru
I have seen Murray play well against tough opposition. I can't say I have seen Matterson do the same. Not saying he hasn't, and not saying he isn't playing well or isn't a good player. I don't watch every minute of every game he plays, but I don't recall a game where his team beat a top tier opponent and Matterson played a key role.
The Barry
Roar Guru
It’s a really interesting question but I don’t think they’ll go both. NSW has shown for years that they prefer big second rowers that can play minutes in the middle as genuine middle third players. See Crichton and Frizell. I know Murray plays in the middle for Souths but he doesn’t play that typical big body middle third role. There still could / should be a place for him but probably not for him and Matterson. I think they could offer something different for NSW particularly if they’re down. But NSW have avoided players - particularly forwards - that stray from the prototype for 15 years Both have ‘earned’ selection but I’m just not sure both suit NSWs typical game plan.
Watda
Guest
Great call, Matterson is showing his class consistently this year and is in great form and Murray is a gun....Let’s hope Freddy picks on form.