Channel Nine commentator Mat Thompson still thinks NSW can stage a remarkable comeback and win Game 2 of the 2023 State of Origin series if they can score the next try.
Despite the match having long since ended, Thompson, who took over commentary duties on Origin matches following the retirement of Ray Warren at the end of 2021, is adamant that if the Blues can find a way to score the next try, the game – and the series – is still theirs for the taking.
“It’s far from over,” Thompson has been saying on loop since the Maroons took a 20-0 lead early in the first half at Suncorp Stadium, increasing in frequency after Damien Cook scored the Blues’ first and presumably only try of the game.
“You just feel that if the Blues can find a way to get consecutive tries, get a bit of momentum going, they can still win this game and get back in the series.”
While Thompson’s repeated calls that the game is well and truly alive and always has been haven’t gone down well among Queensland fans, who remain adamant that their team has the game sealed by virtue of being 32-6 ahead when Ashley Klein blew full time, his opinion has been gleefully seized on by Andrew Johns.
Worryingly, though, not even Thompson thinks Brad Fittler can still keep his job at the Blues – even if he can still absolutely without doubt win the series.
“Not even I’m that optimistic,” he said.
MORE TO COME
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