The Maroons face an uphill battle in the second and third games after a disappointing performance at Suncorp Stadium during the opening match.
Despite Nathan Cleary and Zac Lomax from NSW struggling with their kicks, the Blues secured a dominant 18-6 win, taking a 1-0 lead in the series.
Not all players on the Blues were equally effective, and some Maroons may need to rethink their spots ahead of the next selection window.
Queensland
1. Kalyn Ponga
Made efforts to be involved but seemed to lack the confidence and speed that previously made him the highest-paid player in the game this year.
Rating: 6
2. Xavier Coates
Perhaps the standout for Queensland, he gained the most metres for the team and scored their only try.
Rating: 8
3. Robert Toia
Looked comfortable on debut despite limited experience, cleverly assisting Coates with a pass that led to a try.
Rating: 7
4. Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow
A marked target for the Blues defence, The Hammer managed to break only one tackle and had minimal opportunities.
Rating: 5.5
5. Valentine Holmes
Had little time or space to make an impact as the Blues controlled the game and field position.
Rating: 5
6. Cameron Munster
Attempted to ignite the Maroons’ attack with his runs but was consistently overwhelmed by the NSW defenders.
Rating: 6
7. Daly Cherry-Evans
The Maroons captain endured a tough outing, failing to break through the NSW defence.
Rating: 5.5
8. Moeaki Fotuaika
Managed just four runs for 37 metres – one of several Maroons whose lacklustre performance could see them facing selection scrutiny.
Rating: 3
9. Harry Grant
Entered the game with expectations but turned in a disappointing display, making poor decisions and missing five tackles.
Rating: 3.5
10. Tino Fa’asuamaleaui
After missing last year’s series, he appeared to press too much, giving away early penalties before finding form with strong runs through the middle.
Rating: 6
11. Reuben Cotter
Has not looked the same player as in previous years and this match followed suit, lacking the spark needed.
Rating: 4
12. Jeremiah Nanai
Managed only five runs for 43 metres but showcased his defensive skills with some big tackles on the Blues.
Rating: 5
13. Patrick Carrigan
The busiest forward for the Maroons, he led the tackle count and racked up 136 metres.
Rating: 6.5
14. Tom Dearden
Failed to shift the momentum when he entered midway through the second half, contributing just two runs for 11 metres.
Rating: 4
15. Lindsay Collins
Tried to assert himself against the Blues but was effectively contained by the NSW defenders.
Rating: 5
16. Beau Fermor
Limited to just 17 minutes and four runs on debut, he will gain valuable experience from the outing.
Rating: 4
17. Trent Loiero
Another debutant who struggled with the game’s pace, he may find himself replaced when the Maroons make changes for game two.
Rating: 3
New South Wales
1. Dylan Edwards
Justified his selection over James Tedesco with a steady performance under pressure, scoring the match-winning try.
Rating: 7.5
2. Brian To’o
Unlucky to be sin-binned at halftime due to a questionable decision, he was otherwise strong and scored his usual try.
Rating: 8
3. Stephen Crichton
The most impactful of the four centres, he showed his quality by assisting Lomax’s opening try.
Rating: 8
4. Latrell Mitchell
Had limited chances but demonstrated his skill with a brilliant try assist and several notable plays.
Rating: 7
5. Zac Lomax
Despite his preference not to play on the wing, he scored two first-half tries, contributing significantly with 200 run metres.
Rating: 9
6. Mitchell Moses
While he may not have stood out individually, he effectively linked with his outside players, showcasing his quick hands.
Rating: 7
7. Nathan Cleary
Controlled the Blues’ attack calmly and was accurate in general play but struggled with his goalkicking.
Rating: 7.5
8. Mitchell Barnett
Excelled in the middle, providing support for Haas as the Blues dominated the frontline battle.
Rating: 8
9. Reece Robson
Led the defensive efforts but was underwhelming with the ball, managing only four runs for 40 metres.
Rating: 6
10. Payne Haas
His relentless effort was crucial to the win, amassing the most run metres of any forward and consistently putting pressure on the Maroons.
Rating: 9
11. Liam Martin
Though quiet offensively, he disrupted the Maroons with his tough defence and aggressive plays.
Rating: 6.5
12. Angus Crichton
Last year’s series MVP was once again a menace for Queensland, setting up the first try and making several breaks.
Rating: 8
13. Isaah Yeo
A typical display from Yeo, seamlessly linking forwards and backs while running for nearly 150 metres.
Rating: 8
14. Connor Watson
Only played 16 minutes but delivered the pass to Edwards that cemented the win.
Rating: 5
15. Spencer Leniu
Surprisingly subdued after his controversial selection, he recorded just seven runs for 60 metres.
Rating: 5
16. Hudson Young
The best performer off the bench for either team, he raised the intensity upon entering the field and made several impactful runs.
Rating: 6
17. Max King
Validated his somewhat contentious selection with a vigorous defensive performance and 100 run metres.
Rating: 6
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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