Ready and Resilient: Isabelle Kelly Exudes Confidence Ahead of Game Two as Blues Aim to Break the Cycle of Past Mistakes

New South Wales is determined to avoid past errors as they prepare for game two, aiming to clinch the series on home soil.

In a repeat of the previous season, the Blues secured an opening victory in enemy territory, but their 2024 campaign did not unravel as many had anticipated.

Last year, a promising six-point lead at half-time in the second match faded away in the last 35 minutes, culminating in a comeback win for the Maroons, highlighted by a dramatic field goal from Lauren Brown.

The Maroons ultimately celebrated with a convincing 22-6 triumph over the Blues, lifting the Women’s State of Origin shield in Townsville.

Blues captain Isabelle Kelly reflects on the heartache of last year’s series, which she finds difficult to revisit.

“It was a significant lesson,” Kelly stated regarding their defeat last year. “I haven’t spent much time reflecting on that loss. I’m eager to implement the insights we’ve gained from our training on the field this time around.”

“I genuinely feel we are better equipped this year. With a new coach and fresh team dynamics, everyone has embraced new roles. Over the past six weeks, we’ve honed in on what it takes to secure these victories and aim to do much better than last year.”

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Last year’s series highlighted the struggles of dealing with wet weather challenges, a concern as rain is once again predicted for game two.

If inclement conditions affect either game two or three this season, former men’s NSW Blues coach Brad Fittler anticipates potential benefits for Queensland.

“The conditions in last year’s second match in Newcastle were tough with plenty of rain,” Fittler remarked on Nine’s Freddy and the Eighth. “NSW boasts an incredibly skilled side. Our centres are firing, and getting the ball to Isabelle Kelly and Jess Sergis makes us much stronger since they win tackles effectively. Drier conditions could favour us.”

Maroons veteran Ali Brigginshaw has sent a message to the Blues, urging them to brace for a revitalised Queensland side in game two, as the Maroons aim to force a decisive game three in Newcastle.

These sentiments echoed the thoughts of new Blues coach John Strange, who noted that both teams must adopt a similar mentality.

“We still have a lot of hard work ahead,” Strange commented. “They’ll be desperate, as we would be if we lost the first match. Such desperation influences the style of play.”

“We’ve discussed this briefly, but the main focus is on us and how we need to carry forward the momentum from game one.”

Though Strange is confident in the team’s preparation, Kelly dismissed any notions that the ‘hard part is over’ for NSW after seizing victory away from home.

“I wouldn’t say that about the Queenslanders,” Kelly responded firmly. “I’ve been around long enough to understand how they can play and what to expect from them. We know game two will be a significant challenge.”

“While we’re at home, I don’t believe that grants us much advantage. They will come out strong as it’s do or die for them… and we’re ready to ride that wave. I genuinely believe we can secure the win.”