Holden State of Origin - Game Three Preview

“Is that the best you’ve got?”

Since Nate Myles questioned Paul Gallen in the middle of the field in Game One, New South Wales and Queensland have been on a collision course for the most anticipated game in Origin history.

You had the feeling this was coming all along – the most intense rivalry in Australian sport was waiting for the biggest stage to explode on and answer the question that’s been ringing in the ears of all players since that night.

In Game One, New South Wales took the field with a new Coach, new players and a new attitude. The Blues displayed a swagger that suggested they knew something Queensland didn’t know, and when Jarryd Hayne powered his way across the line after four minutes, we knew something had changed…or had it?

New South Wales went on to win the game 14-6, shutting down the much vaunted Queensland attack with a mobile, fast-moving forward pack that suggested Coach Laurie Daley was the silent assassin we had been waiting for to end the seven-year Queensland dynasty.

With reputations questioned, Queenslanders prepared themselves for Game Two with a slow burning desire for revenge that was promised to be executed in the most ‘hostile atmosphere in Origin history.’

It’s one thing to know when a storms coming, but it’s another thing to know how hard it’s going to hit.

Queensland exploded out of the blocks at Suncorp Stadium with a devastating twenty minute opening period that effectively ended the Blues chances before they began.

So now it all comes down to this…

Sold out two weeks before kick-off, ANZ Stadium will host the most anticipated match in Origin history.

New South Wales have their backs against the wall. A disrupted preparation has ruled inspirational Captain Paul Gallen and Jarryd Hayne out through injury and the Blues will have to lift to fill the void left by their highly respected teammates.

James Tamou returns to the Blues after serving a suspension that ruled him out of Game Two and the ‘Flying Scotsman’ James McManus returns to the side for the first time since 2009. Boyd Cordner will make his debut for New South Wales, in what many predict to be the first of many games that the young Rooster plays for his state.

The time for talking has come to an end. If actions speak louder than words, New South Wales and Queensland will finally answer the call of their enemy – “Is that the best you’ve got?”

Players to watch –

James Tamou – The big North Queensland forward was sorely missed by his Blues teammates in Game Two, with New South Wales struggling to make an impact against a Maroons onslaught. Tamou has promised to repay the faith instilled in him by his Coach and teammates and revealed he is ready to do whatever it takes to end the Queenslander’s reign. With Paul Gallen ruled out of the Blues lineup, Tamou will need to produce every ounce of his devastating ability with and without the ball.

Robbie Farah – After finally securing the Blue jumper that he craved for so long, Farah has made every post a winner with several standout performances for his state. Handed the captaincy after Paul Gallen was ruled out through injury, this match will be the biggest moment in Farah’s career. We’ve seen Robbie produce some of his best work when under pressure and we’re expecting a big game from the Captain.

Josh Dugan – Stepping back into the Origin arena in Game Two, Dugan produced a splendid game under pressure for the Blues and will be looking to build on that performance in Game Three. Dugan considers himself as a big-game player and there is no bigger stage than a deciding State of Origin clash. Can be a match-winner for New South Wales and will need to be watched carefully by the Queensland defence.

Mitchell Pearce – No doubt about it, Pearce has copped more criticism than any other player in a Blues jersey over the past seven years. This game presents Pearce with an opportunity to silence the critics. Agonizingly close to getting the result in Game Three last year, Pearce will be burning to set things straight and prove that he can be the match winner we’ve been waiting for. Pearce is now one of the most experienced players in the New South Wales team and we’ll support anyone who pulls on the blue jersey and that includes Mitchell as well!

Conclusion – There is no denying the advantage of a home crowd in State of Origin. The Coaches and players from both sides have acknowledged it throughout the series and the facts and figures are there to back it up. New South Wales have shown they can beat Queensland. They have the talent, they have the ability and they have the desire. What’s important is producing when it matters most. Queensland has some of the best match-winners in the business and will not panic going head to head with Blues until the final minutes. The key for New South Wales will be to start the game well and sow seeds of doubt in the Maroons mind. Get on top early and the Blues have the forwards to take the game away from Queensland. Hold on tight – this has all the makings of a classic! New South Wales by 2.

Head to the NSW VB Blues facebook page or hit us up on twitter @NSWRL and leave your messages of support for the boys!

Holden State of Origin - Game Three Preview