On all counts, the Queensland Maroons put up an astounding performance last night. They defeated the New South Wales Blues 24-12 in the State of Origin decider. Return of the Maroons Firebrand coach Billy Slater led Queensland to a league-wide table-toppering start. Their amplified energy propelled them to a commanding 20-0 lead by halftime.
From the very first whistle, it was obvious that Queensland had come to play and take home the win. They exerted a dominant control of the game, scoring their first try in the middle of the first half. An emotional Xavier Coates sprinted down the sideline to score the first try. He accomplished this even with an awful forward pass by Gehamat Shibasaki that the refs inexplicably missed.
Queensland’s attack really began to hum when Robert Toia extended the play. He created a moment of brilliance for Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow’s opening try. With precision, Tabuai-Fidow pierced the New South Wales defense and set up Tom Dearden for a brilliant try. The Maroons took advantage of all that was afforded to them. They slotted an additional penalty goal before going on a brilliant 20-point run to close the half.
New South Wales fought to get their footing again in the second half, but it was too late. Queensland didn’t hit the panic button across 90 minutes – the first Bronco handling error not recorded until their 68th minute performance. If the Blake’s kick stop stunned the Blues, Harry Grant’s try to extend Queensland’s lead was bound to leave fans jaw-dropped.
Player of the match Cameron Munster told his teammates to follow him before the biggest match of their lives, just days after losing his own father Steven unexpectedly. His electrifying performance was celebrated across the country. High praise from Coach Billy Slater for the bravery and courage Munster showed in playing those tough odds.
“It’s a brave and courageous effort for him to be out there.” – Billy Slater
Queensland’s defense was suffocating in the first half, holding New South Wales scoreless until the dying minutes of the match. Over the course of the tournament, Queensland’s Tom Dearden put the cap on a great series victory with this second try to finish off a 24-12 win.
Cameron Smith expressed the sentiments felt by many spectators at the game, stating, “I think everyone in the grandstand are shellshocked.” This landmark victory served as the Maroons’ statement of toughness and talent. They gave a fantastic performance on their home turf with all of their supporters cheering them on.
