Queensland had all the momentum coming out of State of Origin Game 1, fresh off an upset victory and with the Blues seemingly in disarray at the selection table.
Then, Game 2 happened. The Maroons were absolutely monstered from the kick-off in Perth, falling to a horror 38-6 loss and falling well behind their opponents in terms of series favouritism.
But Game 3 is a new game and, no matter how far behind the eight-ball they may appear to be, Queensland are always a chance in Origin and could steal a famous series victory tomorrow night.
So how do they do it?
We were joined on the Game of Codes podcast by Roar NRL expert and editor Scott Pryde to run over the visitors’ chances ahead of the all-important decider.
Listen to the discussion:
If the Maroons are going to turn things around in Game 3, they’ll need to overcome some horrific statistics from Game 2.
Metres gained: 1108 (Blues: 1945)
Missed tackles: 39
Line breaks: 1
Kick return metres: 89 (Blues: 271)
Average set distance: 33.6m
Cameron Munster called it “the worst game he’d been involved in” after the match.
Visit our Game of Codes hub to catch the full episode and be sure to subscribe and review on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts or wherever else you’re listening.
nrlfan
Roar Rookie
Hello all, I have a question that has nothing to do with this article I’m hoping someone can tell me why Cameron Smith is so good? I’ve been watching league since I was a kid and I think My understanding of the game is pretty good. I wish I could see what everyone says about Smith how he reads the game 10 plays in advance or how he’s a great game manager etc. I just can’t, can someone tell me what to look for?
Hoy
Roar Guru
QLDs can't play a fast middle game. They have always used the large men up the middle, but NSW have been beating them with pace up the middle because over the last two years, QLD's big men haven't been up to it as much as the older ones were. This will be a bloody tough game for QLD to win. I don't think they can do it. I am sad to say, I don't think Kevvy is a smart enough coach...
Jewboy
Guest
Just turn up with attitude and commitment and tackle them out of the game.
Brian_K
Roar Rookie
I think game 2 was an anomaly. NSW had everything going for them; occasion, motivation, wet weather, neutral ground, refereeing (except the penalty try which is a whole different subject). All that plus they played great football. Throwing the ball around and having their fast players finish off the plays worked perfectly for the wet weather conditions. QLD just were clearly not good or motivated enough to stop the Blues running play in those conditions. I would note the stats above aren't a fair reflection of QLDs performance. NSW had 58% of possession for the match including 61% for the second half. Plus it seemed to be mostly in QLDs end, 67% in the second half. NSW received penalties at very opportune times and positions on the field, especially in the second half. https://www.foxsports.com.au/nrl/state-of-origin/match-centre/SOO20190201/stats All this said, I can't see QLD stopping the Blues in the final game. Though I think the stats including possession should be a lot closer, the Blues are going to have some serious confidence in their game. I think QLD will be super defensive this time around and will be looking to score on the edges where the Blues are most vulnerable. If QLD don't find an answer to stop the Blues 1 & 9 running amok then they have no chance. In fact after 5 SOO games with these two players doing their thing, if QLD don't have an answer to stop them then the coaches need to go. Everything points to a solid win by the Blues but it will be nothing like the second game. NSW 20 QLD 10.