Never underestimate Queensland!
No matter how many times the State of Origin narrative unfolds, it continually surprises us by resurrecting the classic underdog tale.
Who rose to the occasion, and who faltered as the Maroons turned the tables and clinched a thrilling 26-24 victory?
The Mole shares his insights on all 34 players who took to the field in Perth.
QUEENSLAND MAROONS
1. Kalyn Ponga – 5.5
Faced intense pressure from the Blues during their comeback, missing five tackles and committing two handling errors. While he made a few crucial runs, will it be enough to secure his position against Walsh?
2. Xavier Coates – 5
Moved to the left wing to counter Zac Lomax’s aerial threat, a move that paid off as the Blues winger failed to register a try. However, Coates had little opportunity to shine in the wet conditions, with Queensland not fully utilising his skills under attacking kicks.
3. Robert Toia – 7
Outshone Latrell Mitchell to set up the Maroons’ first try and topped the tackle count in the backline. A commendable outing from the 20-year-old.
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4. Valentine Holmes – 8
Stepped up when the Maroons needed him the most, particularly with his goalkicking, which ultimately made the difference between the teams.
5. Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow – 7
Thrived on his position switch to the wing, scoring two tries and contributing significantly to Queensland’s commanding halftime lead.
6. Cameron Munster – 9
Leading the team brought out the best in this star five-eighth, who ran for 131 metres and played a pivotal role in Queensland’s first-half dominance.
7. Tom Dearden – 8.5
Cameron Munster and Harry Grant celebrate Queensland’s victory. Getty
A solid performance under pressure, showcasing why he’ll be Queensland’s halfback for years to come. Contributed to three tries on the path to victory.
8. Moeaki Fotuaika – 7
Ensured his place for the decider with a strong display that showcased his fighting spirit for Origin survival.
9. Harry Grant – 8
Finally secured his first Origin win as a starting hooker in style, causing all sorts of problems for the Blues around the rucks after a shaky start in game one.
10. Tino Fa’asuamaleaui – 5.5
Struggled to make an impact, succumbing to strong Blue tackles and managing just 59 metres with the ball.
11. Reuben Cotter – 7.5
Justified his contentious selection with a relentless effort in both attack and defence, troubling the Blues throughout.
12. Kurt Capewell – 7.5
A brilliant recall from Slater, scoring a try and rattling the Blues with hefty hits while running for over 100 metres.
13. Trent Loiero – 7
Improved significantly after a disappointing debut in Brisbane, completing 41 tackles and making numerous solid carries despite an HIA from a Lomax elbow.
14. Kurt Mann – 6
Followed Slater’s instructions well on debut off the bench, raising the team’s intensity and enthusiasm.
15. Lindsay Collins – 7
Shone as the leading Maroons forward in run metres, demonstrating solid effort off the bench and making significant hits that forced errors from the NSW pack.
16. Jeremiah Nanai – 3
After being dropped from the starting lineup following a mediocre game one, he had little impact with only two runs. His place in the squad may be in jeopardy.
17. Patrick Carrigan – 6.5
Maximised his 33 minutes on the field, displaying considerable power running and working hard in defence during critical phases.
NSW BLUES
1. Dylan Edwards – 7
Displayed composure under pressure in the wet, generating a try and accumulating over 100 metres. Did enough to retain his position for game three ahead of James Tedesco.
2. Brian To’o – 8.5
Excelled despite challenging conditions, notching a hat-trick and leading the game with a remarkable 232 metres.
3. Stephen Crichton – 6
Started slowly as Queensland imposed their dominance, but picked up his game later, scoring a vital try.
Zac Lomax, Nathan Cleary, Dylan Edwards and Stephen Crichton discuss after the match. Cameron Spencer via Getty Images
4. Latrell Mitchell – 7.5
A typical Latrell display—some costly errors balanced by impactful plays that helped NSW close the gap.
5. Zac Lomax – 5
Had a disappointing performance, particularly in his running game, and missed three of five goal attempts in the challenging conditions. Although he didn’t score, his chase pressure on Kalyn Ponga resulted in some errors.
6. Jarome Luai – 7.5
Fought through a tough first half and significantly improved after making strategic adjustments, leading the second-half rally.
7. Nathan Cleary – 5
Struggled with a leg injury, which hampered his performance. In a match with 50 points scored, he had neither a try assist nor a line break assist and couldn’t assume kicking duties from Lomax, who was struggling.
8. Max King – 4
Failed to seize his opportunity in the starting role, clocking just 47 metres in 25 minutes, making it unlikely he’ll keep his spot for the decider.
9. Reece Robson – 5
Also at risk of being dropped, as NSW desperately needs a hooker who can match Harry Grant’s creativity, or their series hopes could be dashed.
10. Payne Haas – 8.5
Once again led all forwards with more metres gained (145) and was key in the Blues’ second-half resurgence.
11. Liam Martin – 5.5
More concerned with his tough-guy reputation than effective play, only managed 41 metres in 80 minutes—far from his best.
12. Angus Crichton – 6
Made crucial errors in defence, including one that led to a try, but was a threat on the edges and scored when it was desperately needed.
13. Isaah Yeo – 6.5
The standout player from game one was less impactful against the Maroon line in Perth, but his work rate was undeniable—30 tackles without a miss and over 100 run metres.
14. Connor Watson – 5
Had the final 20 minutes to make an impact off the bench but was lively without adequately influencing the game’s outcome.
15. Spencer Leniu – 5.5
Had limited impact in 26 minutes but ran hard to try to jumpstart the struggling Blues attack.
16. Hudson Young – 6
Made the most significant contribution among the bench forwards, putting pressure on the Queensland line while racking up 32 tackles in quick succession, though a late crucial error cost the team.
17. Stefano Utoikamanu – 3
Looked overwhelmed with only five carries for 41 metres—likely the first player dropped for Sydney, as he wasn’t up to standard based on form.
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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