Tom Dearden’s performance in Game III of the State of Origin series will be etched in the memories of Queensland fans for years to come. In a gripping 80 minutes of rugby league, Dearden stepped up to lead his team to a 24-12 victory over New South Wales, scoring two crucial tries and showcasing his tenacity on the field. The match, held at Suncorp Stadium, marked a pivotal moment in Dearden’s young career, solidifying his status as a key player for the Maroons.
At nearly every step along her path to this groundbreaking victory, Dearden faced uphill battles. His legs were getting heavy during the game, but he really was able to go to a place to dig deep. His outstanding performance led Queensland to a remarkable win. It netted him the illustrious Wally Lewis Medal, awarded for players named player of the series. This stunning accolade certainly confirms his place at the very top of Queensland’s famous rugby league legacy.
In a risky play, Queensland coach Billy Slater pulled an audacious trump card. He dropped veteran Daly Cherry-Evans from the squad entirely, preferring Dearden for this pivotal clash. It turned out to be a masterful call, as Dearden stepped into the Maroon jersey and preserved the Sun’s crest with heart and poise in high-pressure moments.
“It’s something you speak about a lot, playing Origin and wearing the Maroon jersey,” Dearden stated after the game. He emphasized the significance of representing Queensland, saying, “It means so much to the whole playing group and the whole of Queensland, and that doesn’t go unnoticed.”
Dearden’s contribution went beyond scoring tries. Not only that, he pulled off three vital cover tackles on dangerous Blues winger Brian To’o, with one of those tackles preventing a certain try. He displayed such great defensive talent to match his high-level playmaking prowess. A deft pass from him put Reuben Cotter through a hole inside the Maroons’ half, leading to Queensland’s first try.
Munster, Dearden’s halves partner, showed immense bravery himself in being able to take the field following his own family tragedy. “You look at this week, Munny losing his old man and for him to play and represent Queensland, it shows how passionate he is about this state,” Dearden remarked, highlighting Munster’s commitment to the team.
Reuben Cotter, who benefited from Dearden’s playmaking skills, expressed gratitude for his teammate’s support. “He was constantly in my ear, and that’s what kept me going in the end,” Cotter noted. Nothing could overshadow this bond between players that represented the teamwork and hard work that had propelled Queensland to a 6th straight victory.
Dearden’s phenomenal performance was a demonstration of his individual talent and the collective effort of the entire team. “What we speak about is competing hard and trying to accumulate all those little moments and little effort areas in the game. I thought we had a lot of those tonight and they end up leading to big moments,” Dearden explained.
That’s exactly the strategy the Maroons implemented, as they zipped all over the court with high passing competence. “We completed really high and I thought our forwards and everyone around the ball did a great job, and when you put that much pressure on New South Wales, it brings us halves into the game,” he added.
