New South Wales Blues has secured one of their greatest State of Origin victories, defeating Queensland Maroons 14-4 in their Suncorp Stadium fortress in the series decider and take home the 2024 shield.
It is the third time in 45 years of State of Origin that the Blues have won a deciding match in Brisbane.
In a titanic encounter, the 52,457 in the ground, and millions watching from home had to wait more than an hour for the game’s first try.
The first half was rattled by collision after collision, with both sets of players putting their bodies on the line, and sharing an all-in brawl that saw two players sin-binned.
Blues slowly overcame the valiant Queenslanders, finally breaking the game open in the final 15 minutes.
Blues hooker Reece Robson gave away a penalty and Queensland capitalised and kicked for goal.
Queensland led 2-0 at halftime.
The home team secured points through penalty kick and did not score any try.
The breakthrough came from centre Bradman Best, who crossed the first try.
But then out of nothing the Blues broke through with a try, and Zac Lomax swept in another from the sideline to make it 8-4.
Blues Mitchell Moses scored another try to nail the win in the coffin.
Blues backrower Angus Crichton was awarded the Wally Lewis medal for player of the series.
Queensland coach Billy Slater says he could not be disappointed after the effort his players put in.
Source: Guardian
