Cleary's Inspirational Performance Secures NSW Win
Nathan Cleary, who had previously experienced defeat in three State of Origin series deciders, delivered a masterful performance to guide New South Wales to a stunning victory over favourites Queensland in Brisbane.
Cleary scored two tries and contributed 10 points with his goal-kicking, including a decisive late penalty that effectively sealed the win. His composure under pressure was pivotal, especially as Queensland failed to convert any of their three goal attempts during the match.
This victory provided a significant boost for Blues head coach Laurie Daley, who faced considerable scrutiny over his team selections and is currently out of contract following the series conclusion.
"We were written off, but we came together as a group, and I'm just pumped," Cleary told Sky Sports. "What a team."
Key Moments and Video Review Decisions
While Cleary's outstanding play was central to the win, Daley benefited from two critical video review decisions in the second half. One allowed Bradman Best's remarkable length-of-the-field try to stand despite an apparent knock-on by Jack Bostock. The other disallowed a Robert Toia try due to an offside infringement by Max Plath.
Following a heavy 44-24 loss in Melbourne three weeks prior that levelled the series, Daley made numerous changes to his lineup. However, it was Cleary who led the charge for New South Wales.
Match Progression and Scoring Details
Cleary opened the scoring after sustained New South Wales pressure, which began when Queensland winger Jojo Fifita knocked on under pressure from Origin debutant Jack Bostock, one of Daley's new inclusions.
Bostock nearly scored during this early period but fumbled near the tryline. Cleary soon capitalised, evading Kurt Capewell and holding off three defenders to ground the ball for the first try.
His second try came after forward Liam Martin, recalled after missing the first two matches, broke past Cameron Munster to set up Stephen Crichton. Mark Nawaqanitawase then made a powerful run and offloaded one-handed to Cleary, who scored again.
Cleary then intercepted a pass from Selwyn Cobbo, initiating an attack that culminated in Cameron Murray scoring despite weak Queensland defence, extending New South Wales' lead to 18-0.
Queensland responded late in the first half with Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow scoring in the corner for his 14th try in 13 Origin appearances. However, the Blues suffered a blow when full-back James Tedesco left the field due to a head injury sustained in a collision with Maroons forward Briton Nikori.
Second Half Developments
Reece Walsh, who has struggled with form at the Brisbane Broncos this season, entered the game early in the second half. He was involved in the play leading to Selwyn Cobbo's try, where Cobbo gathered a rebound from his own grubber kick to score, reducing the deficit to 18-8.
Bradman Best then made a remarkable length-of-the-field try after a loose kick from Munster. Despite television replays suggesting a knock-on by Bostock during the play, the try was allowed to stand.
Queensland continued to fight back, with Jojo Fifita scoring in the corner following a pass from Robert Toia.
However, a potential revival was halted when Toia's try, scored with just over 10 minutes remaining, was disallowed after a video review found Max Plath offside. Plath was ahead of Sam Walker at the kick and close enough to Toia to be considered active in the play.
Queensland appeared to recognize the unfavorable turn of events. Cleary then extended New South Wales' lead with a penalty goal, and Hudson Young added a late try, sealing the Blues' victory and sparking celebrations.
Team Lineups
Queensland: Ponga; Cobbo, Toia, Tabuai-Fidow, Fifita; Munster, Walker; Flegler, Grant, Fa'asuamaleaui, Nikora, Capewell, Cotter.
Interchanges: Plath, Carrigan, Nanai, Loiero, Walsh, Taulagi.
New South Wales: Tedesco; Bostock, Best, Crichton, Nawaqanitawase; Moses, Cleary; Haas, Robson, Barnett, Young, Martin, Yeo.
Interchanges: Murray, Fonua-Blake, Olakau'atu, Brailey, Strange, Koula.
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