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The Maroons face significant challenges in the upcoming games two and three following a disappointing performance at Suncorp Stadium in game one. Despite underwhelming kicking from NSW players Nathan Cleary and Zac Lomax, the Blues secured a commanding 18-6 victory, leading the series 1-0. With some Maroons players potentially on the chopping block ahead of the next selection, scrutiny is high.
In this review, every player’s performance from the opening State of Origin match is assessed.
Queensland Ratings:
- Kalyn Ponga (6): Attempted to influence play but lacked confidence and pace.
- Xavier Coates (8): Stood out for the Maroons, scoring their only try.
- Robert Toia (7): Impressive debut, assisting Coates with a smart pass.
- Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow (5.5): Targeted by NSW’s defence; struggled to make an impact.
- Valentine Holmes (5): Rarely involved due to NSW’s dominance.
- Cameron Munster (6): Tried to generate momentum but was consistently held back.
- Daly Cherry-Evans (5.5): Frustrating night for the skipper without much influence.
- Moeaki Fotuaika (3): Disappointingly ineffective, contributing minimally.
- Harry Grant (3.5): A poor outing with missed tackles and questionable decisions.
- Tino Fa’asuamaleaui (6): Slightly improved after a rocky start, showing strength in attack.
- Reuben Cotter (4): Below-par performance compared to previous seasons.
- Jeremiah Nanai (5): Contributed defensively but negligible in terms of running.
- Patrick Carrigan (6.5): The most active with solid defensive work and metres gained.
- Tom Dearden (4): Lacked impact after being substituted in.
- Lindsay Collins (5): Attempted to assert himself but was effectively countered.
- Beau Fermor (4): Limited playing time; will learn from the experience.
- Trent Loiero (3): Struggled at the pace of the game in his debut.
New South Wales Ratings:
- Dylan Edwards (7.5): Proved his worth with a solid performance, including the winning try.
- Brian To’o (8): Strong performance despite a controversial sin binning.
- Stephen Crichton (8): Key player, assisting in scoring.
- Latrell Mitchell (7): Showed class with a noteworthy assist and impactful plays.
- Zac Lomax (9): Exceptional with two tries and strong run metres.
- Mitchell Moses (7): Efficient at linking plays, though limited individually.
- Nathan Cleary (7.5): Well-managed attack despite poor goal-kicking.
- Mitchell Barnett (8): Contributed significantly, supporting the forward efforts.
- Reece Robson (6): Strong defensively but little offensive output.
- Payne Haas (9): Dominated the forward battle, pushing the Maroons back.
- Liam Martin (6.5): Quiet in attack but effective in defence.
- Angus Crichton (8): Continues to disrupt Queensland’s play.
- Isaah Yeo (8): Linked well between forwards and backs; outstanding run metres.
- Connor Watson (5): Played sparingly but assisted in sealing the win.
- Spencer Leniu (5): Largely underwhelming in performance.
- Hudson Young (6): Provided valuable energy upon his arrival.
- Max King (6): Had a busy night in defence, contributing solid metres.
The Maroons will need to regroup effectively to address their shortcomings for the upcoming matches in the series.