Queensland Legend Issues Warning to Tino Fa’asuamaleaui as Decider Approaches

Corey Parker, a legend of Queensland’s State of Origin, has sent a clear message to imposing Maroons forward Tino Fa’asuamaleaui ahead of the series decider, insisting that he has yet to showcase his extraordinary potential against New South Wales. Parker remarked that Wednesday night’s performance “needs to be one of those games” for Fa’asuamaleaui.

In an interview, Parker emphasised the necessity for Queensland’s middle forwards to “step up” at Sydney’s Accor Stadium, highlighting the critical nature of competing with the Payne Haas-led Blues pack after Queensland endured heavy defeats in the centre third during the opening two games.

While Parker noted the entire forward pack’s need for improvement, he placed particular emphasis on Fa’asuamaleaui as the Gold Coast captain approaches his 15th Origin encounter.

Fa’asuamaleaui’s contribution was minimal in Queensland’s victory in game two, amassing only nine carries and 58 running metres over 44 minutes.

He had a more substantial impact in Queensland’s loss during game one, racking up 121 running metres from 14 carries across 53 minutes.

Throughout his 14-game Origin stint, Fa’asuamaleaui has averaged 13 carries and 108 running metres, at times playing in both the front row and lock. He has been a front row starter in his last five Origin matches.

“I’m a massive admirer of big Tino. I genuinely am,” Parker expressed on SEN radio. “However, I believe he has yet to deliver his best Origin performance, and Wednesday is the moment for him to do just that.”

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Fa’asuamaleaui partnered with Moeaki Fotuaika in the front row during both games, but Fotuaika has been replaced by seasoned Raiders prop Josh Papali’i for the decider.

In game one, NSW dominated the run metres with a tally of 1753 compared to Queensland’s 1425. The second game saw the Blues again outpacing the Maroons, recording 1411 to 1253.

Queensland coach Billy Slater is optimistic that the surprise return of Papali’i—who had retired from Origin prior to the 2023 series—will help address the performance gap.

“Papali’i, towards the end of his career, brings experience and will certainly help set the tone,” Parker noted.

“I’m genuinely excited for that clash that lies ahead for big Paps. Reuben Cotter and Kurt Capewell, who were outstanding in game two, will need to maintain that level, just as Trent Loiero will.

“Looking at the benches, there’s a strong case to be made that Spencer Leniu has made a significant impact for NSW when he’s been on the field, but also in game two, players like Patrick Carrigan and Lindsay Collins really elevated their game.

“So the middle forwards need to lift their performance altogether. That will be the challenge, as the result will hinge on battles fought in the middle third.”

Queensland assistant coach Matt Ballin, who stepped into the Origin arena in 2010, recalls the intensity of the middle third during the matches. He replaced an injured Cameron Smith and played as a hooker, contributing to a narrow 28-24 victory at Sydney Olympic Park, the venue for Wednesday’s crucial final.

“To succeed in the forwards in Origin, maintaining controlled aggression is crucial,” Ballin stated on SEN radio. “It’s about knowing the right level of contact and staying firm in tackles, which we’ve discussed throughout our preparation.

“Our starting forwards, including Tino, will be expected to nail their hits and create a solid foundation for our game. We don’t need to aim for brute force all the time; effectiveness is key, especially when they’re transitioning out of their own territory. That’s when we can really make our mark.”

With 23 Origin appearances to his name, Papali’i brings invaluable experience from six series victories.

“He instils a sense of confidence in the entire group,” Ballin remarked. “His calm demeanour and thoughtful approach to communication and actions stand out.”

Former NSW captain Paul Gallen asserted that Papali’i would be “more than ready” for the challenge ahead.

“I believe he’s been brought in to specifically contend with Payne Haas,” Gallen shared on Nine’s Today.

As Fa’asuamaleaui prepares to pair with Papali’i in the front row, he has expressed his excitement about the opportunity.

“Big Tino has been like an eager pup trailing after him all week,” Slater said with a grin. “No Raider has played more games than Big Papa, and he is among the legends of the Queensland State of Origin team.”