Queensland rugby league legend Paul Vautin has expressed his disappointment in the Maroons’ forwards ahead of Game Two of the State of Origin series, reflecting on his frustration while watching the Blues dominate Queensland in the first match, culminating in an 18-6 defeat. Speaking candidly to ABC, Vautin found the performance “really disappointing”, lamenting that not a single NSW player left the game with a bruise, which he attributed to a lack of physicality from the Queensland forwards.
Vautin revealed it was the first time in 34 years he watched a game from home and found it unenjoyable, noting that the team lacked the necessary aggression, which he believes is essential for success in Origin matches. He highlighted the need for a more fierce approach, stating, “It’s Origin, boys, you’ve just got to rip and tear… there was no aggressive play from our forwards.”
In light of the loss, coach Billy Slater has made significant changes to the team, dropping Daly Cherry-Evans from both the halfback and captaincy roles. Tom Dearden will take the halfback position, with Cameron Munster stepping in as captain. Although Vautin felt for Cherry-Evans, believing his performance was solid, he backed Slater’s decision, suggesting that the team needed to elevate their game given the forwards’ inefficacy in providing “go-forward” play.
Vautin praised Dearden for his dynamic style of play, noting that his forward momentum could invigorate the entire backline. He acknowledged Slater’s expertise and confidence in his decisions, admitting he wouldn’t question the coach’s judgement.
Former Maroons coach Wayne Bennett also weighed in ahead of Game Two, supporting the decision to appoint Munster as captain. He stressed the importance of rediscovering the team spirit that has fueled Queensland’s successes in the past, suggesting that the team must engage more passionately to overcome a NSW squad that has recently dominated the series.
Amidst the on-field critiques, the overall excitement surrounding Origin has come under scrutiny, with anyone commenting on the lack of intensity and simmering tensions in the series. Vautin voiced concerns about the declining spectacle of Origin football, describing it as reminiscent of an “overpriced club game”. He urged referees to allow more flow to the game to restore its competitive essence, emphasizing that the heart of State of Origin needs to be revitalised to meet the expectations of fans.