Blues star Tom Trbojevic forced off after three minutes - Freddy's plan B blows up in his face

NSW has been dealt a harsh blow in the early stages of Game 2 of State of Origin with Tom Trbojevic taken off with a pec injury, ruling him out for the rest of the game.

The Blues centre suffered the injury in a fall during Queensland’s first attacking set.

The Manly superstar has a history of shoulder problems, and had his season ended early last year after sustaining a dislocated shoulder during a defeat to Parramatta.

Credit: Channel 9

Turbo was replaced by out-of-position hooker Damien Cook in the centres and within minutes he was caught out as the Maroons scored their opening try through a high kick on his edge.

Queensland had telegraphed that they would attack towards tall winger Xavier Coates in the build-up, but Blues coach Brad Fittler moved beanpole centre Stephen Crichton away from his edge to where Trbojevic had been stationed, leaving the diminutive Cook alongside Josh Addo-Carr on the left, where Coates forced an error for the tryr.

Fittler, interviewed from the coaches’ box in the 17th minute, was encouraged by Cook’s efforts despite the disruption.

“He is doing a good job out there and Stephen Crichton also, he pretty much can do anything, so we’re in the game,” Fittler said. “The try was a 50-50. Didn’t get that one. But we’re back in the game.”

Cook was heavily involved but after one attack died when he was caught with the ball on the final tackle, NSW legend Paul Gallen questioned the decision.

“Missed opportunity for Damien Cook in the centres, wonder if they’re thinking about putting Cam Murray out in the centres,” said Gallen.

“He’s played there before and not sure if Robson can go 80 minutes at the pace he is going at the moment.”

The injury also showed up Fittler’s big selection calls as he opted to leave Nicho Hynes and Matt Burton, both better options as centre cover, out of his squad.

“That’s unfortunate,” said Phil Gould on commentary. “I don’t know why that was the option if the outside back was to go down.

“You’re looking for a back rower who can handle it out there, Steve Menzies or Angus Crichton back in the day. I would have thought Damien Cook was one of the bigger attacking players coming off the bench.”

Social media reaction was swift and brutal.