NSW goalkicker Zac Lomax will likely reflect on what could have been in Origin II after missing three crucial conversion attempts that ultimately led to the Blues losing by just two points. The condition of superstar playmaker Nathan Cleary was a significant factor of the night; heavy strapping on his right thigh hinted at an injury that left his long kicking game compromised. Consequently, Cleary’s goalkicking responsibilities were passed to Lomax.
Initially, Cleary described his limited participation during the captain’s run as “load management,” but it became obvious once he stepped onto Optus Stadium that there was more to his situation than he let on. During the match, his performance raised alarm, starting with an early kick attempt that barely reached the desired distance.
Despite Cleary’s struggles, Lomax managed to convert a try from the sideline after a grubber kick from Jarome Luai. However, an early miss and a penalty let Queensland take the upper hand as Cleary failed to execute long kicks in the opening plays.
As the match progressed, NSW scored first in the second half, trailing 26-10. Lomax’s missed attempts continued to haunt the team, particularly when he hit the post on a conversion. Though he eventually succeeded with a more straightforward attempt after another try, the cumulative misses proved crucial.
After the match, NSW icon Phil Gould highlighted the stark contrast in goal-kicking proficiency, noting that despite scoring five tries to Queensland’s four, NSW’s failure to convert kicks had cost them the match. Total kicking statistics at the end of the game showed that Cleary had improved dramatically in the second half, accumulating 349 kick metres.
Coach Laurie Daley shed light on Cleary’s condition post-game, mentioning concerns about tightness in his groin that prompted caution in how much strain he placed on it during the match. However, Daley maintained that goalkicking was not the primary issue. He emphasised the need for improved execution and intent in NSW’s overall play, especially in the first half, suggesting there were numerous areas for the team to address beyond simply converting goal attempts.
In conclusion, NSW’s performance in Origin II serves as a lesson in the importance of effective goal-kicking while also spotlighting the impact of player fitness on game outcomes.