Queensland thrash New South Wales to level State of Origin series
Selwyn Cobbo scored a second-half hat-trick as Queensland produced a stunning 44-24 comeback victory against New South Wales in Melbourne to level the State of Origin series.
The Dolphins winger enjoyed a career-defining performance as the Maroons ran in 36 points after the interval.
This emphatic win banishes the bitter memories of their narrow defeat in Sydney just two weeks ago.
Sam Walker delivered an absolute masterclass from the tee in only his second Origin appearance.
The Sydney Roosters half-back finished with a flawless kicking record, converting all seven tries alongside an early penalty.
Maroons bounce back to force Brisbane decider
Victory sets up a mouth-watering series finale in Brisbane scheduled for 8 July.
The team desperately needed a positive response after squandering a 20-6 advantage in the opening fixture following Kalyn Ponga’s dismissal.
It was really special to bounce back from such a tough loss in game one. I can’t wait to get out there in Brisbane.
Sam Walker
The Queenslanders were forced to show tremendous resilience following a shaky opening period where they fell 12-2 behind.
Their task was made even harder when captain Cameron Munster was temporarily withdrawn for a head injury assessment.
Blues fade despite Nawaqanitawase debut double
New South Wales dominated the first quarter and crossed the whitewash four times throughout the contest.
Dual-code international Mark Nawaqanitawase impressed immediately, scoring twice on his highly anticipated Origin debut.
The Blues initially capitalised on a Thomas Flegler knock-on, allowing Kotoni Staggs to power over for the opening try.
The visiting side then extended their advantage when Nathan Cleary expertly set up the debuting winger in the corner.
Second-half blitz seals Queensland victory
The momentum drastically shifted just before the break following a sweeping passing move finished by Trent Loiero.
The forward was subsequently the victim of a brutal high tackle from Victor Radley, who controversially escaped with only a penalty.
Radley made history by stepping onto the field, becoming the first England international to feature in rugby league’s fiercest rivalry under new eligibility rules.
With their influential skipper back orchestrating the attack, the Maroons completely overwhelmed their rivals after the restart.
An inch-perfect kick from the returning playmaker gifted the lightning-fast Cobbo his first try of the evening.
The dynamic finisher quickly grabbed his second before Jojo Fifita crossed the line to cap off a remarkable offensive display.
