SOO 2006: Game One: New South Wales vs Queensland

[Queenslander]

Game One: New South Wales http://www.qrl.com.au/images/nsw.gif http://www.qrl.com.au/images/q_cup/teams/vs.gif Queensland http://www.qrl.com.au/images/qld.gif
Wednesday, 24th May 2006; 8:00pm
Telstra Stadium, Sydney

************************************************** **************************************************

Game Notes:

Referee: Sean Hampstead
Touch Judges: Mat Cecchin, Steve Carrall
Video Referee: Graeme West
Stand by Referee: Steve Clark
Stand-by Sideline official: Russell Turner.


Queensland Maroons:
15/5/06 - Seven debutants in the Queensland squad: Greg Inglis, Dallas Johnson, Steven Bell, David Stagg, Matthew Scott, Sam Thaiday & Nate Myles.

16/5/06 - Lockyer is sporting several stitches above a swollen eye. He slipped over during the bonding session at the team's Hyatt Regency Coolum camp.

23/5/06 - The Maroons are due in Sydney at 12.25pm today

24/5/06 - Steve Bell and Brent Tate are expected to switch positions ahead of tonights clash.

New South Wales Blues:
15/5/06 - Gasnier will be fit but Cooper is likely to miss out. Tahu would go to centre and Grothe to wing if Cooper is ruled out

17/5/06 - Eric Grothe has been confirmed as a replacement for Matt Cooper for the NSW Wizard Blues in game one of the Harvey Norman State of Origin series.

17/5/06 - Mark Gasnier will undertake a fitness assessment on his hip today after recovering from a virus that prevented him from training yesterday. A decision on his availability for game one of the series is likely in the next 24 hours

18/5/06 - Gasnier, who is undergoing treatment on an injured hip this morning, will have a fitness test at 3.00pm (AEST).
- Gasnier passes fitness test and is cleared to play
21/5/06 - Danny Buderus failed to finish training this morning with a back problem and is in doubt for Wednesday match. Gower is tipped to take over captainancy role if Buderus does not play

22/5/06 - Luke Priddis was called into the Blues camp as back up today and trained in Buderus's place.

23/5/06 - New South Wales officials last night refused to reveal what was troubling Timana Tahu as the classy centre joined his captain Danny Buderus in the casualty ward leading up to tomorrow night's State of Origin game.

23/5/06 - Craig Gower now in doubt; SOS call to Andrew Johns is rejected.
- Sydney Roosters halfback Brett Finch has been called into the NSW State of Origin squad to replace the injured Craig Gower.
************************************************** **************************************************

Teams:

New South Wales Blues:

1. Brett Hodgson
2. Matt King
3. Mark Gasnier
4. Timana Tahu
5. Eric Grothe (Replaces Matt Cooper)
6. Braith Anasta
7. Brett Finch (Replaces Craig Gower)
8. Brent Kite
9. Danny Buderus (C)
10. Willie Mason
11. Steve Simpson
12. Nathan Hindmarsh
13. Luke O'Donnell

Interchange:

14. Craig Wing
15. Steve Menzies
16. Andrew Ryan
17. Mark O'Meley

Standby Players:
Luke Lewis
Luke Priddis

Coach: Graham Murray
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Queensland Maroons:

1. Matt BOWEN (North Queensland Cowboys)
2. Greg INGLIS (Melbourne Storm)
3. Justin HODGES (Brisbane Broncos)
4. Brent TATE (Brisbane Broncos)
5. Steven BELL (Manly Sea Eagles)
6. Darren LOCKYER (C) (Brisbane Broncos)
7. Johnathan THURSTON (GK) (North Queensland Cowboys)
8. Steven PRICE (New Zealand Warriors)
9. Cameron SMITH (Melbourne Storm)
10. Petero CIVONICEVA (Brisbane Broncos)
11. David STAGG (Brisbane Broncos)
12. Matthew SCOTT (North Queensland Cowboys)
13. Dallas JOHNSON (Melbourne Storm)

Interchange:

14. Shaun BERRIGAN (Brisbane Broncos)
15. Carl WEBB (North Queensland Cowboys)
16. Sam THAIDAY (Brisbane Broncos)
17. Nate MYLES (Bulldogs)

Coach: Mal Meninga
Assistant Coaches: Neil Henry and Kevin Walters
Trainer: Billy Johnstone


----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Final Result:

NSW: 17
Tries: 3
Goals: 2
Field Goals: 1
Penalty Goals: 1
Half-time score: 14
Try scorers: Brett Finch 10m, Matt King 17m, Willie Mason 22m
Conversions: Brett Hodgson 23m
Penalties: 3
Scrums: 4
Possession: 48%
Comp/Sets: 26/37
Tackles (missed): 24
Offloads: 16
Errors: 15
Hit-ups (m): 52

QLD: 16
Tries: 3
Goals: 2
Field Goals: 0
Penalty Goals: 0
Half-time score: 0
Try scorers: Greg Inglis 53m, Greg Inglis 72m, Steven Bell 76m
Conversions: Johnathan Thurston 54m, Johnathan Thurston 78m
Penalties: 4
Scrums: 9
Possession: 52%
Comp/Sets: 30/39
Tackles (missed): 44
Offloads: 16
Errors: 11
Hit-ups (m): 61

[Dakink]

God Damn!! Cmon you Blues!!!!

Will be a tough series for the Blues to win......

[[BroncosGirl]]

HOly crap, I am so psyched up for this :) damn it, Ill be at uni when the team's are anounced though :(

[DeeGan]

Queenslander, on fire! Looks great this thread! :D

[Super Cronk]

According to 2GB, Gasnier will be fit but Cooper is likely to miss out.

[DeeGan]

I think Tahu will move to the wing and Grothe will come in to partner Tahu on one sidew of the field if Cooper is ruled out.

Good side.

As for Orford, he has only himself to blame in not being selected. He had the opportunity on Friday night to secure his spot in the NSW team and was outshone by Brett Finch. He also came up short vs Darren Lockyer and co. on the weekend.

[Super Cronk]

Thread now stickied.

My thoughts on the team:

NSW team isnt very strong at all. Anasta was always going to get the 5/8 spot...but he isnt in very good form at all, that also goes for Gower.

[Dakink]

SOS - Johns and Barrett ;-)

Seriously though, this will be a good test of character for the NSW team. Tiem and time again when SOO was young, QLD would name a team that was miles behind the Blues on paper - only for the Maroons to play with such vigour they out shone their more fancied opponents.

Can the under dog Blues do the same? Surely QLD would have to be favourites - even for the game in Sydney?

[Titanium_BD1103]

Not sure about that... expect Queensland to name a very rookie side this afternoon... lots of debutants with Mal on board.. ;)

I don't mind that Blues squad at all, I think the test is for Anasta and Barrett... they will have a tough time of it against Thurston and Lockyer... and that is the key between us winning this series, and losing it... the rest of the squads players will be even from both sides... its a game of halves... ;)

[DeeGan]

If your at home this series, your favourite, QLD's record at Telstra is abysmal - that's being kind. This reversed when NSW come to Suncorp, we will be favourites.

This series will come down to the MCG decider.

Old QLD hard heads will be doing their best to convince all that are willing to listen that we are underdogs in this series, happens every year. Each team will be favoured to win at their home ground for mine, that all goes out the window in Melbourne.

[Dakink]

I think the test is for Anasta and Barrett

Think you mean Anasta and Gower...;-)

[Titanium_BD1103]

Sorry yes.. my mistake.. I meant Anasta and Gower... too much reading about St-George Illawarra this morning.. ;)

[Dakink]

Sorry yes.. my mistake.. I meant Anasta and Gower... too much reading about St-George Illawarra this morning.. ;)

Well that is never a bad thing!!

Though can read a little like a horror\gore story at the moment...

[Super Cronk]

Whats peoples thoughts on Gallen missing out?

I know alot of league supporters and media had Gallen as a bolter for the NSW side.

[Titanium_BD1103]

I thought it was being announced at 2pm.. :(... oh well.. :)

Good side... the Youth is there though.. and some of the players from last years series as well... I hope they can have a better time of it than in 2005.. :D

GO NATE.. well done to Myles for the bench spot... and that is even without a first grade starting spot at The Bulldogs.. :D :D

Should be a great game Wednesday Week.. BRING IT ON.. :)

[Super Cronk]

As a storm fan i am so happy for Greg Inglis and Dallas Johnson who have played great footy and deserve a shot at one of the hardest games of the year!

QLD side looks very good!.....

[Capital_Shark]

Whats peoples thoughts on Gallen missing out?

I know alot of league supporters and media had Gallen as a bolter for the NSW side.

*takes off Sharks hat* Gallen is very unlucky, he's played very well this year since coming back from injury. People have been commenting on how the Sharks aren't a one man team since they win without Kimmorley and now Dykes, but *Sharks hat back on* I don't wanna see what we're like without Gallen on the park.

[Blunt_Beno]

inglis wont stand out much in this game. as he is outside tate and tate only ever passes the ball if he is going to be tackled over the sideline. bell and tate really should swap positions. would advantage the team a whole lot more.

[DIEHARD]

I love the team, these Maroons will bring back the glory to Queensland.

[Capital_Shark]

I prefer Inglis when he is fullback, seems to be able to inject himself better, and Bowen can carve up from anywhere, fullback or wing. As for Tate I'm still unsure if he should be there.

[Blunt_Beno]

as far as im concerned. tate has done nothing at all to gain his spot in the team. there are alot of far more deserving players that would do a far better job. brent tate is highly overated IMO

[Capital_Shark]

as far as im concerned. tate has done nothing at all to gain his spot in the team. there are alot of far more deserving players that would do a far better job. brent tate is highly overated IMO

Yeah, apart from Tate Queensland did a pretty good job of picking on form rather than loyalty to previous performers like they said they would.

[Blunt_Beno]

thats cause maninga wants to see his state win not his state make money from popularity haha.

[derf]

Interesting to see he didnt even get a bench spot, but i still think its a good squad.Not surprised its Bowen ahead of Hunt, but Hunt must be confused. Gets Australian jumper but missess Origin. It confirms what i have thought for a very long time. The powers that be in both states take Origin more seriously then Tests and when you look at the Origin series it is without doubt the best rugby league going around.
Go you QUEENSLANDERS!!!! :hi: :guit:

[Capital_Shark]

I doubt to see K.Hunt in a rep jersey again for a while, maroon or green and gold, either way the ARL has made sure it'll NEVER been a black and white one...

[~Wild Child~]

Derf- Hunt would be rightful to maybe feel a little used...It kinda raises some issues for me on his selection for OZ and was it sincere...I'm a bit confused...Different selectors-different ideas?...but to me it casts a cloud over his OZ selection. Hunt I believe has a huge SOO future in front of him, but i really believe he has earnt a spot this time,and just been overlooked. I really just don't understand? Why do you think Bowen (great player) took out the spot in front of Hunt?.

[~Wild Child~]

I doubt to see K.Hunt in a rep jersey again for a while, maroon or green and gold, either way the ARL has made sure it'll NEVER been a black and white one...Why do you think we won't see Hunt in a rep jersey for a while?

[SuperCliffy#01]

M-J come off it KH chose to play for Australia, and the ARL chose him, there are no conspiracy theories, look if if KH is good enough he'll get picked.cya. :]

[Capital_Shark]

Why do you think we won't see Hunt in a rep jersey for a while?

Well he couldn't make QLD 2 weeks after he made Australia, I doubt he'll make Australia with the likes of Mini. Being a fullback from Queensland, he's got a lot of blokes to contend with, I don't think he'll get a jumper this year, but next year, who knows, it all depends on the selectors/coach really, and who they like.

[Titanium_BD1103]

He didn't deserve to get picked.. not in front of Bowen, Inglis and co.

Karmichael will just have to keep at it.. and show the selectors he deserves to be in SOO2.. :D :D

[Queenslander]

I love the team, these Maroons will bring back the glory to Queensland.

:clap: So true, i can see a Queensland white wash....not that Queensland are favourites; we are still the underdog ;)

inglis wont stand out much in this game. as he is outside tate and tate only ever passes the ball if he is going to be tackled over the sideline. bell and tate really should swap positions. would advantage the team a whole lot more.

The team that was originally posted was slightly incorrect, i have updated the list with the offical team list from qrl.com.au.

But my thoughts about the team:

Backline is simply awesome, they should run around the blues with ease. The forward pack is pretty much what was expected. Its not the full of big names, however they solid players. Plus they will be wearing the maroon of Queensland and will not let their state down.

[SuperCliffy#01]

He didn't deserve to get picked.. not in front of Bowen, Inglis and co.

Karmichael will just have to keep at it.. and show the selectors he deserves to be in SOO2.. :D :D

Now you have said something to remind myself of the player mentioned on the weekend, they were talking on the radio about KH most likely not being picked for SOO because they kept mentioning Inglis's name, the dirt was that Inglis would be chosen in front of KH.cya. :lol!:

[~Wild Child~]

M-J come off it KH chose to play for Australia, and the ARL chose him, there are no conspiracy theories, look if if KH is good enough he'll get picked.cya. :]Yeah no conspiracy theories...I was just a little disappointed with his non selection...He is just as good as Bowen (atm..i think K is just a little better) and is playing alot of good footy at the moment..So maybe I just don't fully understand how the selection process works...:noidea:

[Super Cronk]

IMO Hunt isnt in the top 5 fullbacks, wingers or centres. Therefore shouldnt have been picked.

[[BroncosGirl]]

I LOVE the queensland team, like seriously Im in love :p!!! Backline is fantastic, although Tate im a bit iffy about, I hope he does alright, and doens't come out injured.

I would've had Hunt instead of Berrigan, but what can you do. Berrigan is not an impact player, he won't come on and do anythign fantastic, but Im sure he'll be solid.

Thaiday, Stagg, so happy to see the boys there :)! 7 Broncos though :(

[[BroncosGirl]]

Would've picked him over Berrigan, to come in for some impact to link up with Locky. BErrigan isn't an impact player, he won't do anything special, he's better at 80mins game.

[HodgoBerro]

Nothing wrong with berro in the squad - i think good on him he's not going too well and it might be the booster to let him know he's still good enough for rep footy

shame me no tickets.. would of gone with me berros a rockstar sign

[Steelers]

']Would've picked him over Berrigan, to come in for some impact to link up with Locky. BErrigan isn't an impact player, he won't do anything special, he's better at 80mins game.

I eouldn't have picked either of them :p

[~Wild Child~]

']Would've picked him over Berrigan, to come in for some impact to link up with Locky. BErrigan isn't an impact player, he won't do anything special, he's better at 80mins game.BroncosGirl...That's what I don't understand...Berro is'nt big on impact ....where that's all I see with K...I'm still not getting it :noidea: ?

[Titanium_BD1103]

Neither should be there.. end of story... they are both not in form and therefore are lucky to be in there... expect Willie Tonga to be back and Berro out for State of Origin 2... unless he does something special in one.. Tonga was not picked as he has been suspended for the past 2 weeks, otherwise he would have been a shoe-in... :D :D

HOWEVER.. pick them both I say... all the more chance for us to hammer them into the turf come next Wednesday... if you want Hunt and Berrigan in the side.. then by all means do it... NSW will be smiling from here to the bank.. :laugh: :laugh:

[shavenjas]

']Would've picked him over Berrigan, to come in for some impact to link up with Locky. BErrigan isn't an impact player, he won't do anything special, he's better at 80mins game.
Agree 100% i don't no how Berrigan got in, he has not even been playing up to 1st grade standard, Hunt would of been a better impact player, if not should of got full back and Bowen of the bench.

[[BroncosGirl]]

Neither should be there.. end of story... they are both not in form and therefore are lucky to be in there... expect Willie Tonga to be back and Berro out for State of Origin 2... unless he does something special in one.. Tonga was not picked as he has been suspended for the past 2 weeks, otherwise he would have been a shoe-in... :D :D

HOWEVER.. pick them both I say... all the more chance for us to hammer them into the turf come next Wednesday... if you want Hunt and Berrigan in the side.. then by all means do it... NSW will be smiling from here to the bank.. :laugh: :laugh:

How is tonga a shoe in? Tonga plays centre, we've already got 3 quality centres in the side already.

[Titanium_BD1103]

']How is tonga a shoe in? Tonga plays centre, we've already got 3 quality centres in the side already.

Yes I know.. but he can also play Wing, Hooker, Lock... he is a very versatile player.. :D :D.. and would be much more deserving of a bench spot than Berro as he is in form ATM IMO.. :)

[[BroncosGirl]]

Nothing wrong with berro in the squad - i think good on him he's not going too well and it might be the booster to let him know he's still good enough for rep footy

shame me no tickets.. would of gone with me berros a rockstar sign

Who cares if it boosts his confidence. Its not up to the NRL to accomodate to players moods, its up to the players to keep a high level of form, and to earn their way into sides. The fact you said "he's not going to well", just shows how much he shouldn't really be in the squad. Hopefully he wont 'dissa point though.

[[BroncosGirl]]

Yes I know.. but he can also play Wing, Hooker, Lock... he is a very versatile player.. :D :D.. and would be much more deserving of a bench spot than Berro as he is in form ATM IMO.. :)

How long since he's played those though? He doesn't do those positions as much as Berro or Hunt do at the Broncos.

[DeeGan]

The Maroons are strong, we will tough to beat home or away - we have picked a side on form though I am don't like the inclusion of Shaun Berrigan on the bench. After the last couple of rounds, I was perhaps leaning too Bowen on the bench with Hunt to fullback - either way, Berrigan is an experienced rep player who I think is best served from the bench ala' Craig Wing.

Love seeing Matthew Scott's name in the line-up, he WILL epitomise what this new QLD attitude is all about. The inclusion of Stagg and Johnstone is long over due, thankfully we are not having to put up wit Carlaw or Carroll.

[Supergoose]

I just hope Queensland has enough minutes in their pack for an Origin game. I'm not sure how Nate Myles is going but his numbers haven't been that impressive. Sam Thaiday whilst having impact is still underdone. Brent Tate is definitely underdone and there is no way I would have picked him. I hope they all prove me wrong and have great games. I really can't fathom how Corey Parker missed out as he has been outstanding for the Broncos (better than Stagg IMO). I'd rather have Hunt or Wesser on the wing instead of Tate at this stage. Shane Tronc would have to consider himself unlucky but congrats to Matthew Scott who is playing the house down. Berrigan is an excellent bench selection and gives the team plenty of options in case of injury and will provide punch off the bench. Anyway Go the Maroons.

PS. Really hope both Gasnier and Cooper play - because the Maroons will smash the Blues if they do. Can't believe they didn't pick Tahu in the centres or Gallen on the bench!

[Dakink]

Hampstead will be the ref!

Hampstead to control Origin I
May 16, 2006

SEAN Hampstead has been appointed as referee for the first match of the 2006 State of Origin rugby league series between New South Wales and Queensland at Telstra Stadium tomorrow week.

Hampstead has controlled two previous Origin matches, handling two fixtures in 2004.

Steve Clark is on standby.

AAP

[Teegy]

just saw on the news the Gilly is helping improve the QLDers on their tackling. at the origin camp. Mal is going to bring in a different legend each day to work on each skill. i can wait to see what Wally and Alfie do to help Locky and Thurston

[Titanium_BD1103]

How in earths name did Hampstead get the job... Steven Clark showed why he is the best on Saturday... he should be there IMO... :(

[Dakink]

You are kidding right?

Stephen Clark the best - not in a month of sundays!!

He had one good game - that by far doesnt out weigh the week in week out dribble he normally serves up.

[Teegy]

i would have liked to see that bloke that reffed the Aust game.

[Queenslander]

Media ban on 'drained' Thurston
May 16, 2006

QUEENSLAND Origin coach Mal Meninga has put halfback Johnathan Thurston off-limits to the media.

Meninga said today Thurston is mentally drained from media interviews in the lead-up to the Anzac Test with New Zealand earlier this month and needs to be left alone.

Queensland had its first training session this morning at the Hyatt Regency at Coolum, which has transformed its golf driving range into a football field for the Maroons.

Meninga has brought in several Origin legends to help prepare the young Queensland side, with Trevor Gillmeister giving tackling lessons today.

AAP

[Titanium_BD1103]

You are kidding right?

Stephen Clark the best - not in a month of sundays!!

He had one good game - that by far doesnt out weigh the week in week out dribble he normally serves up.

I don't know... I agree he is not the best.. but I think he did have a good game.. :)

I guess you have to go with week in week out consistency.. but to be honest.. NONE of the refs in the NRL are consistent, Hampstead is closest, but still long long way away from my standards.. ;)

I agree... BRING BACK ASHLEY KLINE... he would do a great job.. :D :D

[Super Cronk]

Clark is a horrible inconsistent ref IMO. The game he reffed on the weekend was very good tho..let it flow. If he could ref like that all the time then he would be #1 in my books.

[Titanium_BD1103]

They are all inconsistent... :D... there is no arguing over who is.. THEY ALL ARE.. :D

Oh.. besides Russell Smith, but he is consistent in a bad way... :laugh: :laugh:

[..::Coops::..]

They are all inconsistent... :D... there is no arguing over who is.. THEY ALL ARE.. :D

Oh.. besides Russell Smith, be he is consistent in a bad way... :laugh: :laugh:
bwahh hhahahah

[Capital_Shark]

Clark is a horrible inconsistent ref IMO. The game he reffed on the weekend was very good tho..let it flow. If he could ref like that all the time then he would be #1 in my books.

No penalties in the first half and only like 3 all up was great, dunno how much of that was because of Clark but, I think the two teams were professional enough to play a flowing game of footy and not get involved in trying to milk silly penalities. I'm sure Clark was busting to blow a penalty to get a breather, he just couldn't find any reason to do so.

No matter who refs the SOO, he'll be hated on Thursday by either the Blues or Maroons, happens every year.

[Queenslander]

Updated team info, and NSW squad due to Eric Grothe replacing Matt Cooper.

[Queenslander]

It seems Matty is quite aware of his weakness and is expecting anything from his club coach.

Bowen's barrage
Steve Ricketts
The Courier Mail
May 17, 2006

QUEENSLAND State of Origin fullback Matt Bowen is expecting his club coach Graham Murray to direct a NSW bomb barrage his way in next Wednesday's series opener at Sydney's Telstra Stadium.

The Queenslanders believe Murray will use his knowledge of the four Cowboys players in the Queensland camp to his advantage, with Bowen the obvious target after an unhappy night under the high ball against the Roosters in round 8.

That performance cost Bowen a place in the Test side with Roosters and Australian coach Ricky Stuart opting for Broncos youngster Karmichael Hunt instead.

Cowboys and Queensland assistant coach Neil Henry said yesterday Murray would be hard pressed coming up with weaknesses in Bowen, Matt Scott, Johnathan Thurston and Carl Webb's games.

"Obviously the high ball will be a tactic but Matty is just as good as any other fullback in that area," Henry said. "They all have their off nights."

NSW halves Craig Gower and Braith Anasta shape as the chief architects of any bombing raid although interchange star Craig Wing from the Roosters also is strong in that department.

Bowen said Henry was the one who worked on his game after his poor night against the Roosters.

"Neil talked to me about what I needed to fix up and work on," he said. "I've been doing what he has advised me and hopefully things will pay off in the long run as well as next Wednesday at Telstra.

"Neil knows his footy and with all his knowledge he'll be great for the Queensland side."

Bowen said he understood why he missed out on the Australian side and he did not believe it came down to the match against the Roosters.

"I hadn't been playing consistently before that and I think Karmichael deserved his spot," Bowen said. "He's a lot bigger than me and selectors were obviously looking at size.

"I just focused on playing consistently for the Cowboys and if I did that I hoped Origin would come. It has, and now I'm going to take the chance with both hands."

Bowen (175cm and 78kg) said his lack of size had never been a problem and he could only remember being concussed once in his career.

NSW fullback Brett Hodgson is the same height and weight and he can expect to get his share of high balls from Thurston and Queensland skipper Darren Lockyer.

After losing to the Roosters before the Test, Bowen was on the losing side again before Origin, this time at the hands of the Melbourne Storm whose star was fullback Greg Inglis, selected to play on the wing for Queensland.

Queensland coach Mal Meninga was in awe of what he described as a "shootout between Bowen and Inglis" in a match described by many commentators as the best of the year.

Meninga said the pace of the game was similar to that of Origin and the performance of Bowen and Inglis made it impossible to ignore their claims for maroon jumpers.

"It was a good game, a good battle," Bowen said yesterday. "It was pretty fast and it took a lot out of us. But it was played in good spirit."

Former Sydney policeman Sean Hampstead, 38, will referee Origin I.

Hampstead controlled two matches in 2004 but missed out last year with Paul Simpkins refereeing Origins I and III while Steve Clark refereed Origin II.

Simpkins is injured and Clark is not favoured by either Queensland or NSW.

[DeeGan]

No doubt, Bowen will cop bomb after bomb after bomb...his club coach could end his representative career if he fails to defuse what is thrown at him this series.

[Queenslander]

'Axe' sharpens up Qld Origin rookies
Tuesday, May 16, 2006 - 6:45 PM

Queensland's seven State of Origin rookies received a history lesson from former greats on Tuesday as part of their initiation for next week's opening clash against NSW in Sydney.

Coach Mal Meninga arranged the bonding night for his players - 12 of whom weren't born when he made his Queensland debut in 1980.

Past champions Allan Langer, Paul Vautin, Chris Close, Bob Lindner, Gorden Tallis, Trevor Gillmeister, Gene Miles, Gary Belcher, Kevin and Steve Walters, John Ribot, Ben Ikin and Meninga related Origin tales to the new faces in the squad, who soaked up every word.

The 13 former greats featured in more than 250 Origins for Queensland between 1980 and 2003.

Langer (34 matches), Vautin (21), Gillmeister (21), Tallis (17) and Meninga (30) captained Queensland and were named in the Maroons' 25th anniversary side picked last year.

"The boys had a few beers, told a few stories and got to know the new crop coming through," said Gillmeister after passing on some tackling tips to the Queensland players at their Sunshine Coast training camp on Tuesday.

Gillmeister said guys like Vautin, Lindner and Greg Dowling made him feel part of Origin when he came onto the scene in the early 1990s.

"It's import to tell them about the history and how good we were," joked Gillmeister, impressed with the new breed of maroon who he feels can take Queensland into the future following the doom and gloom which followed last year's series loss.

"It was great for us old blokes and they got a lot out of it too."

The jokes flowed as quick as the beers but Gillmeister said the bonding session had been a great move by Meninga.

The players responded to Gillmeister's urgings at training with some fairly heavy hits that left teammates on their backsides.

Gillmeister is a big fan of Storm forward Dallas Johnson who, like Gillmeister, is not overly big but hits with plenty of sting.

"I love watching him play, he's a terrific kid to talk to ... they all are," he said.

Gillmeister said despite the youth and inexperience in the pack, he believed Queensland possessed enough aggression to match NSW next Wednesday.

"I've been really impressed with Petero (Civoniceva) and Dallas Johnson and Nate Myles, I'm a fan of his as well.

"We all know what Carl (Webb) can do and they've just got to put it together on the night and I'm sure they can.

"I like all the young guys they've picked. You're probably looking at the future of Queensland Origin with all these blokes."

Myles, who's expecting Bulldogs teammates Willie Mason and Mark O'Meley to try and "rip my head off", said the bonding session made an impact on him.

"It's weird because you know you're putting on the same number as a fellow like Trevor Gillmeister did," said the 20-year-old Cairns forward, who almost quit the Bulldogs in his early years when he got terribly homesick.

"You know you have to step up a notch, more than one, a couple."

Source: AAP

[DeeGan]

Love the sig just quietly Queenslander, simply awesome.

The Queenslanders are bringing in the Origin legends to inspire our boys to victory, the bonding sessions with former greats (leaf out of Sticky's book) is all big positives heading in to the series - this is our best chance at reclaiming the Shield in a long, long time :D

[Sw1fty]

The Qld fowards will need put alot of pressure on Anasta & Gower to disrupt their ability to feed their backs. Although NSW don't have Johns playing Gower is still dangerous when it come to playing behind a good foward pack.

[Queenslander]

Inglis may be 'unstoppable', says King
Wednesday, May 17, 2006 - 7:09 PM

NSW winger Matt King might end up marking clubmate Greg Inglis during State of Origin I, but he's still backed the Melbourne whiz-kid to be "unstoppable" for Queensland.

King and Inglis have both been named on the wings for NSW and Queensland with the good mates from NRL leaders Melbourne likely to go head to head on the Telstra Stadium turf in Sydney next Wednesday.

"I think everyone knew Greg Inglis had to be in there somewhere, he's a freak," said King, who may yet line-up in the centres for NSW should Mark Gasnier, still struggling with a hip problem, be ruled out.

King said he would look forward to the challenge of marking league's hottest young player - who grew up in north-eastern NSW, a stone's throw from King, but pledged his allegiance to the northern state after moving there in his mid-teens.

"I don't know if I'll be marking on Greggy or what's going to happen there but it will be interesting when it comes around.

"He's quicker than me, that's for sure ... it'll be good to get a game against him."

Inglis has blasted into the rugby league world this season with his incisive running, deft passing and a game more mature than his years would suggest.

"It's a big arena and everyone seems to forget he's only 19, it's a bit of a joke how good he's going," King said.

"He takes everything in his stride, he's that casual and that cool about everything.

"It'll be daunting for him but as soon as he puts his boots on he's unstoppable.

"He'll be fine, he'll take it all in his stride."

For King, the traditional Origin promise of "mate-against-mate" will be honoured when he confronts a Storm-front of Inglis, lock Dallas Johnson and hooker Cameron Smith.

Winger Steven Bell was also a teammate at Melbourne until he joined Manly this year.

"Dallas Johnson deserves everything he gets, he and Cam Smith have been our two best players all year.

"I experienced it last year with Billy (Slater) and Cam, it's sort of weird, I didn't even give it two thoughts three of four days out from the game.

"Game day you just put your boots on, you just run into a wall of maroon, you don't care who it is."

You also don't worry about the possibility of injuring the mates you play with all year, according to King.

"That doesn't sort of come into it," he said.

"Your biggest priority is the Blues jumper and that's all you're worried about for 80 minutes."

King may yet be moved infield by coach Graham Murray if Blues centre Mark Gasnier doesn't overcome an abdominal muscle strain.

"I love being in this side and if it's on the wing, beautiful, but my preferred position is centre.

"I'd love a number three or four on my back with King above it, it'd be special."

Source: AAP

[Queenslander]

Confidence counts
Steve Ricketts
The Courier Mail
May 18, 2006

THERE was something surreal about watching Queensland Rugby League chairman John McDonald read out the names of the 2006 Maroons State of Origin line-up on Monday with new coach Mal Meninga by his side.

McDonald, like Meninga a former Test centre, was coach of the first Queensland Origin side in 1980 when Queensland beat NSW 20-10 at Lang Park and Meninga kicked seven goals.

Now, 26 years later, Meninga is the sixth former Origin player to coach the side.

The others were Arthur Beetson, Wally Lewis, Paul Vautin, Mark Murray and Michael Hagan, with only McDonald, Wayne Bennett, Des Morris and Graham Lowe not having played at Origin level.

McDonald, Bennett and Morris represented Queensland in the pre-Origin days and McDonald also represented NSW from Sydney club Manly.

Lowe, a New Zealander, was the most controversial choice as Queensland coach in 1991-92 but guided the Maroons to a series win in '91 to add to his high standing in the state following a Brisbane premiership win with Norths in 1980.

The most successful coaches were Bennett and Beetson with four series wins each.

Now Meninga, Australia's most capped player, steps into the breach.

If confidence counts for anything, Queensland will win the first match of the series at Telstra Stadium on Wednesday night, with Meninga having a definite swagger about him despite the inexperience of his line-up.

Meninga also shrugged off the fact Queensland has never won at Telstra, saying it was a challenge the team was eager to meet. Whatever team finally takes the field for NSW, it will be dominated by players who have represented their country in recent times.

It is a team capable of blowing Queensland off the park if the Maroons' seven rookies find the going too tough.

But I think NSW coaching staff member Laurie Daley is on the money when he says this Queensland team has greater mobility in the forwards than the 2005 line-up and more strikepower across the park.

In his column in The Courier-Mail yesterday, Warren Ryan compared the players' strengths and weaknesses and in many areas Queensland came out in front.

If NSW has an edge it is in the back row with Nathan Hindmarsh, Steve Simpson and Luke O'Donnell proven internationals, while Queenslanders David Stagg, Matt Scott and Dallas Johnson are untried.

Meninga believes the main reason Queensland was successful in the early days of Origin football was the fact the players stuck together and worked for the common cause of beating NSW whereas the Blues may have had Test jumpers on their mind and perhaps Sydney club rivalries were a little hard to overcome.

"When you talk to Fatty Vautin about playing for Queensland you realise it's the best thing he's ever done," Meninga recalls. "He looked forward to it so much. Guys like Greg Conescu, Dave Brown, Chris Close . . . they'd give their right leg to put on a maroon jersey and play in a State of Origin match."

[Queenslander]

Stats say Maroons
Steve Ricketts
The Courier Mail
May 18, 2006

NRL statistics give Queensland a big edge over NSW in strike power for State of Origin I but Maroons legend Kevin Walters says it will be another thing translating that to the next level of football.
http://thecouriermail.com.au/common/imagedata/0,,5155353,00.jpg
Walters, part of Queensland's coaching staff, said yesterday he believed the team picked for Wednesday's match against the Blues in Sydney was one of the best attacking outfits in years.

He said coach Mal Meninga and the selectors had set out to pick form players and statistics provided this week by Ian Collis from NRL Stats showed they had things right.

"It's an exciting team with plenty of tries in it," Walters said. "But it's one thing to look at the statistics on paper and be impressed. It's another thing altogether for the players to deliver the same results at Origin level. I think we can do it but New South Wales have a virtually all-international line-up so you can understand why we're underdogs."

Queensland's backline has three of the NRL's top seven tryscorers – Steve Bell, Johnathan Thurston and Greg Inglis – while NSW has none.

Thurston, Bell, Inglis and Justin Hodges are in the top 10 for line breaks while Queensland prop Petero Civoniceva is top of the list for running metres with co prop Steve Price third.

Willie Mason is the only NSW player in either category. He is fourth in top running metres behind Civoniceva, Wade McKinnon (Parramatta) and Price. "The great thing about this team is the fact all 17 are in fantastic form," Civoniceva said.

"I'm sure our rookies are a bit nervous and apprehensive but I know we're going to work really hard for the rest of the camp and put a finish on everything and be ready to go."

Civoniceva acknowledged NSW held an advantage in experience in the back row with three internationals, Nathan Hindmarsh, Steve Simpson and Luke O'Donnell, while Queensland had three Origin rookies – Matthew Scott, David Stagg and Dallas Johnson.

"It's going to be a huge task for us as a pack," Civoniceva said. "When you look at their guys on paper it's an awesome pack we're coming up against."

Centre Brent Tate missed the sprint and endurance work at training for treatment from the team physiotherapist but participated in ball work at the end of the session.

Tate, who has been battling an ankle problem, played only two NRL matches for the Broncos before his Origin selection.

But Queensland media manager Ben Ikin said Tate was improving every day and there was no suggestion he was in doubt for the match.

[Dakink]

LOL - When is the last time a stat won a game??

The Mighty Maroons teams of the past were always behind according to the stats, but repeatedly beat NSW with something more important - heart!

[Teegy]

LOL - When is the last time a stat won a game??

The Mighty Maroons teams of the past were always behind according to the stats, but repeatedly beat NSW with something more important - heart!
and thats what Mal is trying to bring back into the QLDers.

[Queenslander]

LOL - When is the last time a stat won a game??

The Mighty Maroons teams of the past were always behind according to the stats, but repeatedly beat NSW with something more important - heart!

Well if we have both (Stats and Heart) than we should be unstoppable :thumbsup: And no team has a bigger heart than the Queensland Maroons.

[Super Cronk]

Well if we have both (Stats and Heart) than we should be unstoppable :thumbsup: And no team has a bigger heart than the Queensland Maroons.

This really gets to me....people(mostly QLD'ers) say that they have more pride in their jersey or they have bigger hearts then NSW....hows that so? because some boofhead(Moore) yelled "Queenslannnnnnder" in the tunnel?

[Queenslander]

This really gets to me....people(mostly QLD'ers) say that they have more pride in their jersey or they have bigger hearts then NSW....hows that so? because some boofhead(Moore) yelled "Queenslannnnnnder" in the tunnel?

:!: Im shocked :p But yeah. Queenslander's have always had the task of beating the Bigger Brother. We are always called the underdog and love it...why? Cause it gives us more reason to win and to do our state proud. Im sure NSW has the spirit and heart in their team but we display it more both on and off the field.

[Dakink]

That used to be the case - but Ill give Ricky a wrap here, every rep team he has coached he has instilled amazing passion and pride in the jersey. Just look at the Aus team v the Kiwi's.

[Super Cronk]

:!: Im shocked :p But yeah. Queenslander's have always had the task of beating the Bigger Brother. We are always called the underdog and love it...why? Cause it gives us more reason to win and to do our state proud. Im sure NSW has the spirit and heart in their team but we display it more both on and off the field.

I disgree. I think both teams show pride and heart in their jersey. IMO.

[Queenslander]

I disgree. I think both teams show pride and heart in their jersey. IMO.

They do, but Queenslander display it more. For an example go to Lang Park on State of Origin night :thumbsup:

[Super Cronk]

http://foxsports.news.com.au/story/0,8659,19176370-23214,00.html

Gasnier passed fit


Gasnier was put through a tough fitness test by the Blues medical staff, who were satisfied the St George-Illawarra three-quarter would be fit to take his place against Queensland at Telstra Stadium on Wednesday night.

Penrith wing Luke Lewis, who was on standby to replace Gasnier, will now be released from the camp.

He is expected to be play for the panthers against Parramatta at CUA Stadium tomorrow night.

[Teegy]

From SMH

Queensland's man-for-all-seasons Shaun Berrigan senses Darren Lockyer is in the right frame of mind to pull out a special State of Origin series in the Maroons' hour of need.

Queensland is desperate to avoid an unprecedented fourth-straight series loss to NSW and have gambled on seven rookies for Wednesday's opening game at Telstra Stadium.

With five debutants named in the starting side, including a young back-row with no Origin experience, Lockyer's performance and poise at five-eighth will again be vital to Queensland's success.

And bench utility Berrigan is confident his skipper is ready to fire.

"I think he is," said Berrigan when asked if Lockyer may be on the verge of a big Origin series.

"With Johnno (halfback Johnathan Thurston), (fullback) Matty Bowen and (hooker) Cameron Smith all very creative players, it will take a lot of pressure off him."

Berrigan, teammates with Lockyer at NRL club Brisbane, said the Broncos had brought in a new playing structure this season which had taken the pressure off the star five-eighth - allowing Lockyer to thrive.

"Every player (at the Broncos) knows their own game plan and Darren can worry more about his own game, it's been really good for him," said Berrigan.

Lockyer will saddle up for his 22nd Origin and his ninth series against NSW next week in arguably the best shape - mentally and physically - that he's been in for several years.

He played the 2004 series - the year in which he also took over the Maroons captaincy - with a painful rib injury and carried an arm injury last year.

This year though NSW will have to contend with a refreshed, fit Lockyer, although he is carrying some stitches to a cut eye after slipping over during a team bonding session at Queensland's Origin base camp at Coolum this week.

With Thurston in great touch at halfback and Lockyer hitting form like a Bart Cummings trained stayer on Melbourne Cup day, Queensland would fancy their chances of coming out on top against NSW duo Craig Gower and Braith Anasta should the forward packs balance each other out.

After the bitter disappointment of breaking his foot prior to last year's Tri Nations final against New Zealand, Lockyer is highly motivated to get back to his best.

He copped some criticism for an ordinary comeback game for Brisbane in its heavy round-one loss to North Queensland, when his defence was exploited.

But he has buried that performance under a mountain of kudos with a return to the kind of form that had him seriously challenging Andrew Johns for the title of world's best player a few years ago.

He makes no secret of how important winning this series is to Queensland.

"It's a big series for Queensland given the recent results and the fact that we haven't be able to win at Telstra Stadium," said Lockyer.

"It's a great challenge for all of us."

[Titanium_BD1103]

Johnathan Thurston will be the Playmaker and the Kicker for QLD... should be a great test for him and I wish him all the best.. :D :D

From: www.sundaymail.com.au

You'll run the show
GREG DAVIS
21may06

MAROONS rugby league captain Darren Lockyer (pictured) says halfback Johnathan Thurston will be calling the shots for Queensland's dynamic duo in State of Origin I on Wedneday night.

Lockyer said Thurston was capable of taking the interstate grudge match by the scruff of the neck, in the same way that Andrew Johns dictated terms for Australia in this month's ANZAC Test.

With Johns in control against the Kiwis, Lockyer flourished in a more traditional five-eighth's role, before being shifted to fullback late.

The Queensland skipper has been in stellar form for the Broncos over the past month, with less playmaking responsibilities on his shoulders.

In their fourth Origin match as a halves pairing, Lockyer said he was looking forward to the Cowboy star dominating proceedings at Sydney's Telstra Stadium.

"I've had a good chat with Johnathan since we got into camp, and he has obviously come a long way with his footy in the past 12 months," Lockyer said.

"He will take more of the role of being the director out there.

"He's playing halfback, so he's the man to get the team around the park. His kicking game and organisational play will be vital for us.

"He does that for the Cowboys every week and does it very well, so there's no reason why he can't do it for Queensland too. He's ready to go to that level. Anyone who has seen the bloke play this year knows that – his form has been sensational.

"Last year was Johnathan's first series with the Queensland team, so he probably felt that he wanted to just ease his way into it a bit.

"He didn't want to tread on anyone's toes I suppose, but a year on he probably feels more comfortable in the Queensland team.

"That will help him play even better, which is a massive bonus for us."

Lockyer said he was happy with the form he was taking into his ninth Origin series.

But he knows he has to be at his best to lead Queensland to victory.

"I've been pleased with how I'm going, but it's a different ball game in Origin," he said.

"You still have to lift and take your game to a complete other level.

"I know as one of the most experienced guys in the side, I have to make sure everything stays on track."

Thurston said making his international debut in the Anzac Test this month alongside Lockyer and Johns had been a major confidence boost.

He is ready to put the experience to good use.

Having the 2005 Origin series under his belt would also provide valuable insight in the heat of the battle this year.

"Origins are very quick, so anytime you can give the boys a breather it's always good," Thurston said.

"But there's a few things I've picked up on that will come into good use out there on Wednesday night.

"I had a great week preparing for the Test and I want to try to have the same preparation for the Origin too.

"The way guys like Joey (Johns) and Locky prepare themselves for the big games is something I want to try and do as well.

"Playing inside Locky last year was great and I'm looking forward to our combination getting even better."

Former Queensland captain Wally Lewis said the Lockyer-Thurston halves pairing could give the Maroons the edge in the series opener.

Poor form, injuries and representative retirements forced NSW to go for Craig Gower and Braith Anasta as the Blues' halves combination while Queensland has two playmakers in red-hot form.

"They (Lockyer and Thurston) are two very exciting players that dominate throughout the season, so there's certainly no reason why they can't continue that form into Origin," Lewis said.

"It is probably going to be one of our greatest strengths for this game in particular because they are great strike players.

"They have 10 days in camp to build on the combination from last season.

"That will only allow their understanding to flourish and hopefully reach unparalleled heights. That improvement is going to be expected by the coaching staff and the players themselves.

"I'm sure they'll have a great deal of belief in each other and their confidence will only soar."



Thurston handed kicking duties
GREG DAVIS
21may06

MAROONS halfback Johnathan Thurston (pictured) will kick ahead of workhorse Cameron Smith in Wednesday's Origin opener.

Coach Mal Meninga said Smith's heavy workload at dummy-half and in defence, and the likelihood of Thurston playing all 80 minutes at Telstra Stadium, meant the responsibility would rest on the shoulders of the Cowboys sharpshooter.

Thurston has landed 40 goals from 49 attempts for an 82 per cent success rate in 2006.

Smith has knocked over 35 from 48 shots for a 73 per cent conversion rate for the Storm.

Queensland has not always had the luxury of picking between top-quality goalkickers, with part-timers often drafted into the pivotal job. Winger Lote Tuqiri, who did not even kick for the Broncos, had a shot to win the 2002 series for the Maroons but it sailed wide to leave the series drawn.

Meninga said he was in the enviable position of being spoilt for choices, but Thurston would get the nod.

"Cameron is on the ball a fair bit, so it will be good to spell him whenever we can," he said. "It is very good to have a couple of very handy goalkickers in the squad.

"Touch wood, Johnathan will get through the whole game and be on the field for the full 80 minutes.

"That's an important factor when you are deciding on goalkickers."

Smith was on the bench and unable to take kicks in the closing stages of the tight series opener last year, when skipper Darren Lockyer was forced to take the difficult attempts.

Smith's success rate at Origin level has not been as good as in club football. Some pundits suggest his tireless efforts leave no petrol in the tank for goalkicking.

Meninga is the ideal judge of who should take on the crucial role.

In his stellar Origin career from 1980-94, Meninga kicked a record 69 goals for Queensland, including a perfect seven from seven in the inaugural match in 1980.

Captain Darren Lockyer insists Telstra Stadium is not a Maroon graveyard, despite 10 unsuccessful trips to the Olympic venue.

[Teegy]

that will help locky. he plays best when he can just join and inject himself when he wants

[Queenslander]

Maroons showing spirit of 2001: Langer
Friday, May 19, 2006 - 7:29 PM

The spirit of 2001 is back for the Queensland Origin rugby league team.

That was the verdict from a man who should know - Maroons talisman Allan Langer.

Five years ago Langer was secretly lured back from England to clinch the Origin series decider for a young Maroons side.

Since then it has been slim pickings indeed for the Queensland faithful.

Three straight series losses by Queensland prompted 2005 NSW coach Ricky Stuart to claim what was once unthinkable - the Blues now owned the Origin spirit.

New Queensland coach Mal Meninga reacted by picking a team for Wednesday's 2006 series opener with seven rookies - the most since 2001.

But Langer reckons that is not the only similarity with the 2001 team.

Langer believes the new batch of Maroons were brimming with the fun spirit that fuelled their 2001 heroics.

And it took an approach borrowed from former NSW mentor Stuart to do it.

Taking a leaf out of Stuart's book, Meninga brought Origin greats into camp - in this case his old mates Langer, Wally Lewis, Paul Vautin, Trevor Gillmeister, Gene Miles and Gary Belcher - in a bid to stoke the legendary Maroons passion.

A few yarns and plenty of beers at their Coolum camp later, Langer has given Meninga's relaxed approach the thumbs up as Queensland attempts to avoid being the first team to lose four straight Origin series.

"Mal played with a lot of spirit in his day, built it on mateship and good times - that's why he has formed the guys around him here," Langer said.

"The camp was all about having a beer and having a good time, mixing and mingling - it's not that hard to do.

"I think the camp has been great for the team, especially for the seven debutants who are young but still picked on form - it wasn't as though they weren't expected to be picked."

Asked if he agreed with Stuart's claim that NSW owned the Origin spirit, Langer said: "Anyone can say that when they win, mate."

Despite his relaxed approach, Meninga did not have to be reminded how important it was to claim a Queensland series win on Origin coaching debut.

"The players realise we need a successful Queensland side every year to keep the Origin concept alive," he said.

"That's our charter, our responsibility. We are pretty keen on making that happen.

"We get on pretty well and they like a beer. It's just good to be involved in Origin again after such a big absence

"To come back and talking to them about what they think of Origin, you can see they have not lost any of the passion for it."

Speaking at an Origin lunch at Brisbane on Friday, Meninga vowed to "crank" up his side's preparation after their low key start.

Asked to sum up the Coolum camp, a dead pan Meninga said: "Well, we had a drink on Monday. On Tuesday we had a rest.

"We are not really talking about footy at the moment, just getting together and having a good time.

"This is the last of our official commitments. We will crank things up over the weekend."

Source: AAP

[Titanium_BD1103]

I think Petero is right... GO MASON AND O'MELEY.. THE BULLDOGS AND NSW WRECKING BALLS.. :D

From:www.theage.com.au

Qld expecting Mason, O'Meley onslaught

Petero Civoniceva expects fiery Bulldogs props Willie Mason and Mark O'Meley to join forces for NSW and bash Queensland's inexperienced pack in the opening onslaught of Wednesday night's State of Origin in Sydney.

The Maroons camp expect O'Meley to start the match despite being named on the bench, and join Mason as they rip in during the opening exchanges.

Massive Manly prop Brent Kite is tipped to come off the bench, giving the Blues an even more intimidating look, with bookmakers Centrebet tightening the Blues from $1.73 to $1.70 on the back of two $10,000 bets.

"I'd be surprised if he (O'Meley) didn't start," admitted Civoniceva who along with fellow front-row warhorse Steve Price will lead one of the most inexperienced and youthful packs into Origin battle.

Civoniceva and O'Meley were Test teammates on last year's Tri Nations Tour of Great Britain and the Brisbane prop has an enormous amount of respect for O'Meley's power and aggression.

"To be honest I was surprised he wasn't named in the front-row when they announced their side at the start of the week," said Civoniceva, lining up for his 15th Origin.

Queensland may also pull a late switch with fearless forward Carl Webb a chance to start the clash ahead of rookie Matt Scott to help fight fire with fire in the torrid opening 20 minutes.

Scott, 20, is a tough kid with a lot of potential but along with fellow second-rower David Stag, 22, and lock Dallas Johnson, 22, has not played an Origin while their rivals Nathan Hindmarsh, Steve Simpson and Luke O'Donnell have all played for Australia.

Going into an Origin with three rookie forwards in the starting pack and another two on the bench might be too much of gamble for new coach Mal Meninga to take against a NSW outfit boasting so much big match experience.

Stagg says he has "no idea" what to expect from Origin after six tranquil days preparing at the luxurious Hyatt Regency resort on the Sunshine Coast.

"I really don't know what to expect on Wednesday night.

"It's going to be very quick and very tough.

"You don't expect to be able to ease into and Origin game, it's going to 100 miles an hour from the first minute."

Stagg and six other rookies have spent the week listening to former Queensland players like Allan Langer, Gene Miles, Trevor Gillmeister, Bob Lindner and Paul Vautin recalling stories of their Origin days and soaking up the history.

"There's a lot of young blokes in the side and just having those great players around certainly makes you realise how special and how important Origin is," said Stagg.

Stagg's forte is his amazing work rate, much along the lines as former hard-toiling back-rowers Gary Larson and Billy Moore, which is what Queensland will need against a big, mobile and threatening NSW pack.

He held the NRL tackling record until just recently and he has an insatiable appetite when it comes to defence.

"You don't go out with the plan of making a certain number of tackles. I'll just make every tackle that comes my and hopefully I don't miss any."

Meanwhile, halfback Johnathan Thurston will take over the goal kicking responsibilities from hooker Cameron Smith, who because of his heavy workload and determination to play 80 minutes can get a little leg tired.

© 2006 AAP

NSW coach wants no more from Mason

NSW coach Graham Murray doesn't want anything special from prop Willie Mason come Wednesday night - just more of the same please.

Mason has been in devastating form for NRL side the Bulldogs this season, and Murray is hoping the 195cm, 115kg giant can dish out a similar performance when he lines up against Queensland in the opening State of Origin clash at Telstra Stadium.

"I think he's in good form with his club and what I'd like to think is that he can produce that kind of form again at Origin level," Murray said.

"There's no reason why he can't, one transfers into the other."

Mason's statistics with the Bulldogs make for impressive reading.

He is fourth in the NRL for both hit-ups and metres gained, averaging 157 metres each time he takes to the field. And he has already proved he can match it at representative level, terrorising the New Zealand side in the Test match earlier this month when he ran for 153 metres.

Mason's go-forward on Wednesday night will be critical to NSW's chances of registering a first-up win.

Without regular Blues front row cohorts Jason Ryles and Luke Bailey due to injury and suspension respectively, Mason is the man Murray will turn to lead the charge against the Maroons.

"If he continues to play like he has with the Bulldogs - yes," Murray said when asked if Mason would be the designated leader of the pack.

"That's the point I've made to him and the other guys, they've been picked on form with their club sides, now they've got to reproduce the form with the blokes they don't play with every week - that's the challenge for him.

"The Test and the last three or four games for the Bulldogs he's been quite dominant."

Mason said he wasn't daunted by the prospect of being the main man in the middle, but was adamant that he would need plenty of support if the Blues were to get over the top of the Queensland forwards, led by veteran duo Steve Price and Petero Civoniceva.

"I suppose I have to be a leader playing front row, but I don't see myself as the leader as such," Mason said.

"For me to get the job done I need to have the rest of the forwards doing the same thing, it makes my job a lot easier."

One running mate in particular that Mason is looking forward to playing alongside is Bulldogs teammate Mark O'Meley, who will start the game off the bench.

"We work well together, he gets quick play the balls and I get on the back of them," Mason said.

"Nothing's really going to change (from playing with the Bulldogs), he's going to be doing what he does - he loves the confrontation - he's a real hard bastard.

"We can't change much, you can't get into Origin and just change the whole game just because it's a big stage."

The Blues enjoyed a day off Saturday but will get back down to work with an early morning training session on Sunday.

© 2006 AAP

[Queenslander]

Big Mal's plans for a storm
By Kangaroos coach Ricky Stuart (boo, hiss)
May 21, 2006

AS both teams enter the final countdown to Wednesday's Origin opener here in Sydney, it's interesting to note the approach taken by Queensland's new coach Mal Meninga.

I've always felt ex-Queensland players have been more centralised in their support of the Maroon jersey than perhaps NSW have been over the years.

That's why, last year, I made it a priority when I was coach of the Blues to involve a number of this state's former Origin greats to help with my preparation.

A highlight of last year's campaign was a dinner the team hosted for former Blues captains at Ravesi's at Bondi.

Our players turned up to be greeted by such greats as Laurie Daley, Tommy Raudonikis, Steve Mortimer, Wayne Pearce, Max Krilich, Benny Elias, Ray Price, Brad Fittler and Steve Rogers.

As Alan Jones interviewed the former captains about some of Origin's classic battles, the importance of the job ahead became increasingly obvious to our blokes.

That night allowed the former Blues captains to rub shoulders with the latest Origin crop, share past Origin tales and talk about the passion, pride and commitment that's so necessary to win the big games.

I left there that evening believing we had an outfit that was prepared to die for the blue jersey.

This year, Mal has taken a similar approach with Queensland. The ex-Queenslanders are a very tight group.

They've always put their hands up whenever the call goes out to mobilise support.

Big Mal wasted very little time tapping into this resource last week.

Mal has been astute enough to recognise the importance of getting the former Queenslanders together to pass on the great sense of respect they all have for the Maroons jersey.

He gathered around him a dozen former Queensland champions who collectively played more than 250 Origin matches between 1980 and 2003: Alfie Langer, Paul Vautin, John Ribot, Ben Ikin, Chris Close, Bobby Lindner, Gorden Tallis, Trevor Gillmeister, Gene Miles, Gary Belcher and the Walters brothers, Steve and Kevin.

Five of them - Langer, Vautin, Tallis, Gillmeister and Mal himself - captained the Maroons.

The big challenge though for big George is to maintain the momentum for the entire series.

There have been signs that perhaps he has thrown all his energies into the first game, thus leaving the cupboard dangerously bare for the remaining matches.

If Queensland don't win the opener after all the preparation they've put in, I seriously doubt if they can bounce back to clinch the series.

This year's Origin is shaping up as one of the tightest in recent years.

For the first time in years the game's showpiece attraction will usher in some exciting talent with an eye to the future.

The clash of the halves -- NSW's Braith Anasta and Craig Gower and Queensland's Darren Lockyer and Johnathan Thurston - will shape the eventual outcome.

For the coaches the pressure will be enormous. Graham Murray is an experienced campaigner who has achieved excellent results with the Cowboys and has kept in touch with the game at a representative level as the NSW City coach.

It's a different story for Mal.

It has been a long time since he coached the Canberra Raiders.

Mal will have a well-constructed game plan but game plans don't necessarily win Origin matches. What wins Origin games is the commitment each player makes not to let his team-mates down.

Assembling a passionate group of ex-Queensland players to help him with the talking during the week was his first Origin masterstroke as a coach.

The Sunday Telegraph

[Queenslander]

On the Sunday Footy show, Paul Vautin has said that Graham Murray has been quoted to have said that Danny Buderus is in doubt due to a back problem.

Edit: More details;

Buderus scare for Blues
May 21, 2006

NEW South Wales State of Origin captain Danny Buderus failed to finish training this morning with a back problem.

Buderus will be assessed this afternoon with Blues coach Graham Murray hopeful his chief dummy-half will be fit for Wednesday's Telstra Stadium showdown with Queensland.

"I'm not a medical expert but he's a bit sore so he's just with the medical staff now, the doctor and the physio, and we'll just monitor him for the rest of the day and see how he pulls up," said Murray.

"The doctor's fairly confident but at the same stage there's got to be some doubt there.

"I'd like to know a little bit more today but the doc's saying we'll see how he wakes up tomorrow."

A Blues spokesman said Buderus had sustained a back spasm which may have been the result of his long drive from Newcastle after watching the Knights win over Canberra last night.

Penrith utility Luke Lewis had been brought into the NSW squad as 18th man, but Murray said Panthers hooker Luke Priddis would be called up if Buderus fails to overcome the injury.

"It was always the case that shadow players were selected ... Luke Priddis is the shadow player there," said Murray.

"He was thought of very highly in the selection meetings."

Centre Mark Gasnier (hip) ran freely at training this morning.

AAP

[Queenslander]

Lockyer likes Queensland's depth
By Steve Ricketts
May 22, 2006

QUEENSLAND skipper Darren Lockyer believes his side has the depth of talent to be a force in State of Origin rugby league whatever the result of this week's opener against New South Wales.

Lockyer admitted yesterday to concerns about the quality of the 2006 side after Mick Crocker, Billy Slater, Ben Ross, Matt Sing and Paul Bowman were ruled out through suspension, injury or retirement.

"I thought if another couple of players went down we could be in trouble," Lockyer said. "And even now if we get a couple of injuries our depth could be tested.

"But I think our depth now is a lot better than it was a couple of years ago and that's probably indicated by the team we can field this week.

"At the start of the year I probably wouldn't have predicted Sam Thaiday would play Origin but we all know what he's been doing off the bench for the Broncos and it would be good to have Sammy doing the same stuff for Queensland."

When Lockyer made his debut for Queensland at fullback in 1998 the Queensland team contained 12 internationals and went on to win the series 2-1.

This Queensland team has seven internationals compared with 14 in the NSW side but Lockyer does not think the Maroons will be overawed.

"The first things that jumped out at me when I saw the make-up of the side were the combinations," he said.

"Matty Bowen and Johnathan Thurston obviously have a great understanding from the Cowboys and Justin Hodges and I know each other's games from the Broncos.

"I like the balance of the pack as well as having a couple of workhorses in David Stagg and Dallas Johnson and someone like Carl Webb who can make an impact off the bench. Staggy has worked the house down and he's deserved his spot."

Lockyer also was impressed by teenage winger Greg Inglis.

"He's exciting and for his age he shows a lot of maturity on the field," Lockyer said. "He doesn't make mistakes, he's strong and he can handle whatever they throw his way.

"It's a very talented backline when you think about blokes like Greg, Matty Bowen and JT (Thurston)."

The Courier-Mail

[Queenslander]

Young Maroons unscarred by past
Steve Ricketts
May 22, 2006

QUEENSLAND State of Origin legend Greg Dowling says the Maroons' failure to win a match at Sydney's Telstra Stadium meant nothing to the "young and innocent" new breed given the task of tackling NSW at the 82,000-capacity venue on Wednesday night.

Dowling, who joined the Queensland camp yesterday as part of new coach Mal Meninga's mentor scheme, said he believed this was the Maroons' best chance in years to break the Telstra hoodoo.

He said the selection of seven rookies for Origin I would prove a masterstroke with the youngsters driving on the veterans with their enthusiasm. "They're young and innocent. They're not mentally scarred by that (Telstra) record," Dowling said. "That's the beauty of having these young blokes in the team.

"Yes we haven't won a game at Telstra in 10 goes and that's a big thing for us. But these guys don't give a damn.

"It's a new ball game to them. It's just a game.

"Yes it is State of Origin and that's the way they're treating it. But I think it will play in our favour.

"These guys aren't mentally scarred. They don't have any of those hangovers.

"They'll go out there and play their best football and the younger ones will push the older ones on. And that's what has been happening all week at training. The enthusiasm is unreal.

"This is our best chance in years to set the record straight and break that hoodoo down there."

Dowling, who lives at Atherton in North Queensland, ran the rule over the Queenslanders at an opposed session with the Sunshine Coast Falcons representative side at Quad Park, Kawana.

The veteran of 11 Origin matches and 12 Tests for Australia has spoken to each player individually and reserved a special chat for interchange forward Nate Myles, who hails from Cairns.

"I followed Nate's career when he was with Kangaroos in Cairns and I spoke to him a fair bit this year when he got suspended at the Bulldogs," Dowling said.

"The second time he got suspended he was down in the dumps and thought the world was against him and I just told him to keep hanging in there, mate."

Dowling told the Queensland forwards they would have a tough night against a NSW pack which boasts Myles's Bulldogs teammates Willie Mason and Mark O'Meley, who starred in Australian's Test win over the Kiwis on May 5.

"I said to them all, 'did you watch the Test match' because they (O'Meley and Mason) laid the foundations along with (Queensland's) Petero Civoniceva and that's where they're going to come at us on Wednesday. So we've got to stop them and they're all quietly confident they can.

"It's a great opportunity for Nate to gain the respect of his teammates O'Meley and Mason."

Queensland centre Brent Tate trained impressively after being restricted at previous sessions and the Broncos star declared himself a certain starter with his suspect ankle holding up well on grounds that are harder than what he is used to in Brisbane.

The NSW camp is tipping a late switch with Manly's Steve Bell playing left centre against NSW trump Mark Gasnier. The Blues also feel Carl Webb will start instead of Matt Scott.

Tate said a late switch from centre to wing would not worry him but for the entire session yesterday he trained at left centre with Storm's Greg Inglis on the wing.

"Whatever Mal feels is right for the team I'm more than happy to do it," Tate said. "I haven't marked Gasnier too much because I normally play on the other side of the field.

"He's a good player and he'll take a lot to handle. It will be a hard night. But I've got some good defenders inside and outside me."

The Courier Mail

[Eel 33]

Bring it on!!! Go QUEENSLAND!!!

[Queenslander]

Blues will miss Joey's aura
by Wayne Bennett
Monday May 22, 2006
Source: The Courier-Mail

AS I looked through the two teams named for next week's opening State of Origin match, it wasn't the names there that took my attention, it was one that was missing: Andrew Johns.

Having coached Craig Gower in the past two Tri-Nations series, I have enormous respect for him as a footballer, but he is not Andrew Johns - no one is.

The closest I can come to comparing what "Joey" brings to a team is recalling the effect Wally Lewis had on the Queensland team in his prime.

All he would have to do was walk into the dressingroom and you could almost hear the other players saying "We'll be right, Wally's here" and I'm sure Johns had the same sort of effect on the Blues' psyche, especially last year when he was brought back in Game Two by default when Trent Barrett was ruled out.

The two backlines for this game are well-matched. The Queensland halves, Johnathan Thurston and Darren Lockyer, have been in great form and have the advantage of playing a full Origin series together last year.

The centres are big and strong and while Timana Tahu is a real threat he will come up against Justin Hodges and there hasn't been a better centre in the game than Justin this year.

NSW fullback Brett Hodgson is back in Origin football for the first time since 2002 when he was the victim of the famous Gorden Tallis "rag doll" tackle and he's a better footballer now. He's a smart player, especially around the rucks where he will work well with NSW skipper Danny Buderus.

If the Blues have an advantage, it's the experience in their forward pack. Brent Kite has been there before and Willie Mason has been in great form, as has Buderus.

The backrowers, Luke O'Donnell, Steve Simpson and the amazing Nathan Hindmarsh, fit the tradesman mould NSW has relied on in recent years perfectly. They won't be the catalyst for any victory but they will be the reason.

Queensland's front row, Steve Price, Cameron Smith and Petero Civoniceva will hold its own against anyone in any company. They are a coach's dream; they just get the job done every time with a minimum of fuss.

Where Queensland is in uncharted waters is in the backrow where we've got three debutants, Matthew Scott, David Stagg and Dallas Johnson, who have very big jobs to do in defence and attack.

The interchange benches balance themselves out although I don't think NSW has anyone who can provide the sort of impact Carl Webb can so there might be a slight edge to the Maroons there.

If I give Queensland one other advantage in this match - and believe me, I really want us to - it might have to be in flair through Lockyer, Smith, Thurston, Hodges and Matt Bowen but flair can only come into it when everyone has done his job.

Balancing Queensland's flair will be the Blues' confidence. Most of the NSW players were involved in last year's series, which they won comfortably, and they won't need to be convinced to stick to the same formula for success.

The only difference is they don't have one A.Johns in the No.7 jersey to direct them around. Hopefully that will be enough to make them vulnerable.

...........................

I DON'T need to remind anyone that Mal Meninga was one of the greatest players our game has produced - his record speaks for itself.

Now Mal is back with the Maroons as coach and it's a whole new ballgame. He's in for an interesting ride because there's nothing quite like coaching Origin football.

The time Mal's had out of coaching won't hurt Mal tactically because he's got Neil Henry, Kevvy Walters and Billy Johnstone in his corner and they've been at the coalface of NRL constantly and know what is needed better than most.

What Mal brings to the Maroons is a great aura and presence. He'll give the team confidence just by being with them.

No one needs to be reminded how important this series is to Queensland but the last thing Mal should be thinking about is what has happened in the past. The pressure of coaching at this level is big enough without adding to it.

One thing I can tell Big Mal about coaching the Maroons is the highs that come after a win are tremendous and the lows after a loss are devastating. I hope you have many more highs than lows, Mal.

[Super Cronk]

Johns may not be the only one missing:

Buderus, Tahu miss training-SMH.com.au


NSW captain Danny Buderus remains in serious doubt for Wednesday's opening State of Origin match after failing to train with his team this afternoon.

Buderus, who has been troubled by back spasms, worked out by walking on a treadmill in the gym as his team trained at Aussie Stadium.

Veteran Penrith hooker Luke Priddis was called into the Blues camp as back up today and trained in Buderus's place.


Centre Timana Tahu also had a gym session instead of training with the team while 18th man Luke Lewis ran with the team.

[Dakink]

Crap!!!

We are looking decidely shaky - If Qld cant win this series - they never will.

[Queenslander]

Maroons rookies will be heroes: Dowling
Monday, May 22, 2006 - 12:26 PM

Former enforcer Greg Dowling has given Queensland's five forward rookies the thumbs up, tipping them to cover themselves in State of Origin rugby league glory on Wednesday night.

Dowling, who exerted power and aggression in 11 Origins during the heydays of the 1980s against the likes of Steve "Blocker" Roach, said Queensland's hopes of turning the Origin tide rested in the hands of its new stars.

Matt Scott, David Stagg and Dallas Johnson form a rookie back-row while North Queensland 20-year-olds Sam Thaiday and Nate Myles will provide the back-up off the bench.

It's the most inexperienced forward pack Queensland has taken into an Origin but Dowling believes the players are up to the challenge.

Wingers Greg Inglis and Steve Bell complete the "super seven" rookie brigade which Queensland selectors hope can stop NSW creating Origin history with a fourth successive series win.

"There's a lot of pressure on those seven players because of their inexperience," said Dowling after joining Camp Maroon at the weekend.

"Those back three (Stagg, Scott and Johnson) are very hard workers, they'll churn through 100 tackles together easily before halftime and they'll keep chopping them down for the 80 minutes.

"I like the way young Matty Scott carries himself, no nonsense. He's a typical country boy, you can tell he means business.

"You can just see he's primed for a big game. He knows this is a big chance to earn some respect and I don't think he's going to let this opportunity slip away.

"Nate (Myles) is another hard, country boy from up north.

"Look at the size of him, he's enthusiastic and Dallas - I'd have him in the trenches with me any day.

"He's all heart, all muscle and he'll keep going till he drops just like Staggy who has an amazing work ethic."

Dowling has warned the young rookies they'll have to spend most of the night stopping big Blues props Willie Mason, Mark O'Meley and Brent Kite.

"I asked them if they'd watched the Test match (against New Zealand) because Mason and O'Meley (and Civoniceva) laid the foundations for that victory," said Dowling.

"That's where they are going to come at us on Wednesday night and we've got to stop them in their tracks."

Dowling brushed aside fears veteran props Petero Civoniceva (30) and Steve Price (32) would not go the distance, posing a problem with so much inexperience around them.

"I'd have those two in my side any day," he said.

"Their work rates are very high, they're as tough as they come and they'll keep turning up.

"Petero does more damage with the football than without it because he's so raw boned and tough. He's got the hardest head in the competition.

"He's a human wrecking ball and he matches O'Meley for mine.

"Pricey will keep going all day like he does for the Warriors.

"It's not an issue."

Dowling said New South Wales had come back to the field with so many players injured and retired, especially champion halfback Andrew Johns.

"Johns was the difference last year, he killed it," said Dowling.

"There's no doubt this is our best chance in years."

Source: AAP

[TDoGGBulldog]

w00t go NSW Gooo Mason Gooo Bobcat Gooo Shrek :win:

[Queenslander]

Budget build-up for Maroons
By Steve Mascord
May 23, 2006

QUEENSLAND arrives in enemy territory this afternoon - without its coach and on a budget airline.

The new-look Maroons are due in town at 12.25pm, on Virgin flight 482, direct from their camp on the Sunshine Coast.

But coach Mal Meninga is not due in town until later in the day, after a father-and-son night with young Josh at Nudgee College was cancelled yesterday.

At one point Meninga had been booked on a late night flight out of Brisbane.

"He mentioned it when he came into camp so there's no great surprise and no problem with it," said QRL general manager Ross Livermore.

Only Jetstar and Virgin Blue ply the Maroochydore-Sydney route, meaning footballers used to business class will have to make do with less spacious seating.

The Maroons, featuring seven new caps, train at Parramatta Stadium 4.30pm.

************************************************** *******

In other news, Melbourne chief executive Brian Waldron says NSW fans will have no reason to gripe about losing Origin games to Melbourne if they fail to fill Telstra Stadium tomorrow night.

There are still some 10,000 tickets left, Waldron saying: "It's very difficult for people to go and scream about games being taken away for the right reason when they're not supporting their own game," Waldron said yesterday.

"Maybe people in NSW have got to question how much they value it, how important their team is to them.

"Ticket sales down here have been very healthy - the ad they've produced is outstanding. All credit to the NRL for that."

The Daily Telegraph
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thurston, Lockyer loom large
By Steve Ricketts
May 23, 2006

QUEENSLAND skipper Darren Lockyer believes Johnathan Thurston can play a crucial Andrew Johns-type role in tomorrow night's State of Origin series opener against New South Wales at Sydney's Telstra Stadium.

Lockyer said if Thurston called the shots at halfback, as Johns did in Australia's 50-12 win over New Zealand on May 5, it would give him the freedom to work from five-eighth with the Maroons' multi-talented outside backs.

Thurston played all three Origin matches last year but Lockyer says the 23-year-old has come a long way since then and even at training there is a lot more authority in everything he does.

Australia coach Ricky Stuart put Thurston at five-eighth and switched Lockyer to fullback after Karmichael Hunt was knocked out cold in the 52nd minute of the Test.

Thurston immediately stamped his authority on the game by calling plays ahead of his skipper.

"He's got a lot more confidence than last year and that's only going to help the team," Lockyer said.

"It's his role to guide the team around the park like Joey (Johns) and, if he does, it gives me a chance to seek out some opportunities for the outside backs.

"We've got a lot of options but we must lay a platform for those guys because they're not going to look real flash if they've got nowhere to go.

"But with Cameron Smith being a smart dummy-half runner we're pretty confident we can make some inroads up the middle and then feed these guys outside with some ball.

"There are a lot of them who can create something from nothing."

Lockyer said he believed he was in better shape physically and mentally than last year.

"I'd rather Queensland dominate the series than myself," Lockyer said. "I know what wins Origin games and what needs to be done.

"I guess my job is to keep the guys on track out there on what we need to do to win. Even though I've played a lot of Origin I've learnt a lot in the past 12 months.

"We've got a lot of young blokes but they're all in form and that gives them confidence. With the balance of the side and the way we've trained, things are looking good."

Lockyer said new coach Mal Meninga had an aura about him that demanded respect.

"When a person of his stature and record at Origin level speaks everyone takes notice," Lockyer said.

"Because of the amount of Origin he's played he knows there's only a certain amount you can do as a coach and a lot of it falls back on the players."

"It was probably the same in his day as well. He's put a lot of responsibility back on the players.

"Mal's input has been spot on and when it comes down to the nitty-gritty of plays and what we want to do out there, a lot of that falls back on (assistant coaches) Neil Henry and Kevvie Walters."

The Maroons have looked at tapes of last year's 2-1 series loss to NSW with the emphasis on ways to improve defence after conceding an average of 28 points a game.

Queensland won the first match 24-20 in golden-point extra time after leading 19-0.

The Blues claimed their fightback for a 20-20 scoreline at the end of 80 minutes gave them momentum to go on and win the series but the decision to recall Johns was the key factor in the series win.

With Johns having retired from representative football, Craig Gower has been handed the No.7 jumper. Gower came off the bench in the Blues' 32-10 win in the 2005 series decider.

Lockyer said Queensland should not have too many lingering nightmares from Origin III last year despite the scoreline.

"If you look at our attack in the first 10 minutes, it was exceptional but their defence was as well," he said. "It was pretty much an example of how to attack and how to defend.

"If we scored in the first 10 minutes it would have been a different ball game.

"But they defended so well and we put so much into trying to score when we came up empty, they grew another foot and we probably sunk a foot."

The Courier-Mail

[Super Cronk]

Waldron still ripping in!! lol..good stuff and i agree with him.

[Teegy]

i agree with him but maybe he should wait till he fills his stadium before critising. sales might be good now but itmight stop. you never know.

[Super Cronk]

i agree with him but maybe he should wait till he fills his stadium before critising. sales might be good now but itmight stop. you never know.

Even if it does stop... 30,000 is still very good.

[Teegy]

yer good but i dont know wether he should shot his mouth off when he might not get the job done

[Super Cronk]

yer good but i dont know wether he should shot his mouth off when he might not get the job done

Jobs already done... For a state that "doesnt care about league" to get 30,000 is a huge effort.

Maybe him shooting his mouth off will bring more focus to SOO...

[Teegy]

Jobs already done... For a state that "doesnt care about league" to get 30,000 is a huge effort.

Maybe him shooting his mouth off will bring more focus to SOO...
jobs not done. im sure that stadium holds more than 30,000. when its full then the job is done

[Super Cronk]

jobs not done. im sure that stadium holds more than 30,000. when its full then the job is done

Thats ridculous to say. The only way it is going to be a success is if its a sell out? :whatd:

[Teegy]

thats what hes saying about NSW. if that all melbourne are wanting then it should have stayed in QLD or NSW.

[Super Cronk]

thats what hes saying about NSW. if that all melbourne are wanting then it should have stayed in QLD or NSW.

No...Waldron is saying NSW people are whinging that they lose a home game from the series...and then is saying why are they whining when they dont even sell out a staduim. And its true...

i hope they sell out the game down there that would be awesome.

[Social Loafer]

The stadium holds 56,000. THere is still plenty of time before the match, I'm fairly confident the will sell out.

[Titanium_BD1103]

If you Queenslanders can't win tomorrow night.. YOU NEVER WILL..:laugh: :laugh:

It is looking shakier by the day for us NSW Blues supporters.. :(

From: www.foxsports.com.au

Blues tight lipped on Tahu
By Brent Read and Stuart Honeysett
May 23, 2006

NEW South Wales officials last night refused to reveal what was troubling Timana Tahu as the classy centre joined his captain Danny Buderus in the casualty ward leading up to tomorrow night's State of Origin game.

Tahu sat out most of the Blues' penultimate training session at Sydney's Aussie Stadium, initially working alongside Buderus in the gymnasium before playing a minor role in the team's field session, which was held behind closed doors.

Penrith centre Luke Lewis, the 18th man for tomorrow night's game at Telstra Stadium, trained in Tahu's place.

Blues doctor John Orchard has been gagged by senior officials, while coach Graham Murray declined to say what was troubling Tahu, although it's understood the Parramatta centre had a stomach virus.

Tahu's ailment continued a jinxed preparation for the Blues, who have lost centre Matt Cooper to a hamstring injury and could be without Buderus, who has a problem with his back.

Buderus, who endured a back spasm at the weekend, was rated only a 50-50 proposition by Murray yesterday.

"Obviously, if you don't train today, you're in a bit of doubt," Murray said of Buderus.

"He's better than he was yesterday and that's the positive side of it but he's certainly not out of the woods at this point in time.

"I'll give him as much time as I think is necessary. He is the captain, he is one of the elite players. Luke Priddis is a good player and a good back-up but I would like to give him (Buderus) every chance."
Asked what he thought Buderus's chances were, Murray replied: "I'm not sure which way to lean. I'm just looking at the calibre of the bloke. He's tough and he wants to play, so I'm leaning towards he will play."

Buderus was reticent to comment, saying only that he was walking a lot better.

"We'll see what happens tomorrow," Buderus said.

If Buderus is unable to take his place, Priddis left no doubt he was ready to play.

The Panthers rake has played three games for NSW, although his most recent appearance was five years ago.

His selection would be eased by the presence of Penrith halfback Craig Gower, the likely skipper if Buderus is ruled out.

The Australian

[Teegy]

If you Queenslander can't win tomorrow night.. YOU NEVER WILL..:laugh: :laugh:

It is looking shakier by the day for us NSW Blues supporters.. :(

From: www.foxsports.com.au
You cant say that BT311. NSW had more talent in the earl 80's and 95 but didnt win.

[Titanium_BD1103]

Sorry Teegy... I didn't know about history like that.. I retract that statement and say it for this years series then.. :)

[Teegy]

Blues give Buderus until last minute

SCANS have cleared NSW captain Danny Buderus of any serious damage to his injured back, but a final decision on whether he plays in tomorrow night's opening State of Origin match at Telstra Stadium may not be made until just before kick-off.

Buderus, who broke down at training on Sunday and was in a deal of pain, is growing increasingly optimistic about his prospects of leading the Blues in their only home game of the series after yesterday being diagnosed with a bulging disc.

The Newcastle hooker had a similar problem in 2004, and while it is believed his latest back injury is unrelated, he was not previously affected for any great length of time. Penrith's Luke Priddis ran in his place at training yesterday, while Buderus and Blues centre Timana Tahu (virus) had a brief workout in the gym at Aussie Stadium.

Tahu, who began feeling ill on Sunday night, did some light running towards the end of the 90-minute workout. Blues officials insist he is not in doubt. In contrast, NSW coach Graham Murray rated Buderus only a 50-50 prospect, but after not encountering any problems during a long walk yesterday, he is expected to try to run today.

Buderus is receiving around-the-clock treatment from Blues physiotherapist Liz Steet, and has been prescribed a course of anti-inflammatory pills.

"I'm walking a lot better today, so [with] anti-inflammatories and whatever, we'll see what happens tomorrow," Buderus told reporters after his workout on the treadmill. Priddis's club combination with Panthers halfback Craig Gower, the likely NSW captain if Buderus is ruled out, would make the blow of losing the Test hooker as smooth as possible, but it was not the reason he had received the call-up, according to Murray.

The rookie Blues mentor said he would be prepared to wait as long as possible before making a decision, but Buderus is likely to want to be fair to his teammates and not keep them waiting if he thinks he can't make it. "Although Luke Priddis is a good player and he's a good back-up, I'd just like to give [Buderus] every chance he's got, and he'd like to do that, too," Murray said. "He is the captain and he is one of the elite players.

"Obviously, if you don't train today you're in a bit of doubt - that's why we've asked Luke Priddis to come down. He's better than he was yesterday and that's the positive side of it, but he's certainly not out of the woods at this point in time.

"[It's] 50-50. I'm not sure which way to lean, but I just look at the calibre of the bloke he is. He's tough and he wants to play, so I'm leaning towards he'll play."

Knights coach Michael Hagan said that Buderus had no indication of the problem when he returned to Newcastle to watch Saturday night's game against Canberra.

"He was fine," Hagan said. "I said to him, 'How's your body?', and he said, 'I feel excellent', so he had no real problems at all that I was aware of. I think that he has had some problems with it a couple of years back but I spoke to him today and he felt that it was settling down with treatment." After battling through last season with a nagging toe problem, Hagan said he expected Buderus to play.

"I think he would be reluctant to pull out and he's very tough," he said. "If anyone can play with a bit of pain it's him."

Should Buderus be ruled out, however, Priddis said he was ready to step in after playing all three games in the 2001 season.

The 29-year-old former Bronco was watching a Wiggles video with his kids when told by a reporter that Buderus had injured himself at training and he was likely to be called into the NSW camp on stand-by.

"This year my goal was to get up there to be back behind Danny; you don't wish anyone bad luck but if the opportunity arises I will take it with both hands," Priddis told Channel Seven.

"I probably didn't do myself justice when I last played, and as a result Bedsy has been entrenched there ever since. I was obviously a bit younger back then and I was probably a little bit overawed playing with the players that I did, so I just didn't play my natural game."

From SMH

[Teegy]

Lockyer wary of the wounded beast

QUEENSLAND captain Darren Lockyer says NSW's unsettled preparation is no comfort to the Maroons and that it will only make the Blues even more dangerous in State of Origin I.

NSW went into camp with two stand-by players for injured centres Mark Gasnier and Matt Cooper and ended up losing Cooper to a hamstring injury, meaning Timana Tahu was shifted from wing to centre and Eric Grothe added to the wing.

Gasnier was cleared to play on Thursday but, just when it appeared the Blues were settled, hooker and captain Danny Buderus broke down with a back injury on Sunday. He remains in doubt and Luke Priddis is on stand-by.

"They haven't had the best preparation," Lockyer said yesterday. "But that just spells danger for us, because they know they are going to have to lift to a new level."

Winger Greg Inglis has wowed Lockyer in camp. The Storm player is one of seven who will be making their debuts for the Maroons, but he has displayed the relaxed manner of an Origin veteran rather than the nervousness of a 19-year-old rookie. "He's very skilful and very casual," Lockyer said of Inglis.

"He gets to training and picks up everything. He never looks like dropping a ball. Usually, when young kids show promise, they still have a lot of errors in their game - he doesn't. Nothing bothers him - he's exceptionally relaxed. He's one of those players people will pay money to go and watch. He's got the potential to be anything."

Five of Queensland's Origin first-timers are forwards, three of whom - second-rowers David Stagg and Matthew Scott and lock Dallas Johnson - are in the starting side, with Sam Thaiday and Nate Myles on the bench.

Lockyer said the rookies, rather than waiting for others to show the lead, would join the experienced forwards - starting props Petero Civoniceva and Steve Price, hooker Cameron Smith and bench man Carl Webb - in getting stuck in from the start.

"It's going to be a team effort from the forwards," he said. "We can't just rely on one or two forwards to do it all."

from SMH

[Dakink]

Locky just talking the talk there: I reckon secretly they would be jumping for joy.

[Teegy]

i dont think they would. these players like to beat the best. you dont want to beat a 2nd grade team

[Super Cronk]

I reckon its all mind games TBH.

[Queenslander]

I reckon its all mind games TBH.

Yeah thats half the battle before State of Origin, mind games. I think all this talk about "injury" in the NSW camp is mind games.

[Dakink]

i dont think they would. these players like to beat the best. you dont want to beat a 2nd grade team

dont know about that - I have heard numerous commentators this week mentioning how muchthey are looking forward to NOT play Anrew Johns this year. Gives then a better chance of winning it!

[Queenslander]

dont know about that - I have heard numerous commentators this week mentioning how muchthey are looking forward to NOT play Anrew Johns this year. Gives then a better chance of winning it!

Commentators? I dont think they play against Andrew Johns ;) Each team wants to win, however im sure they believe that it is not a true victory if you are playing a second rate side.

[Teegy]

shame on them then. i was dissapointed when Joey retire becuase it didn't give us a chance of beating him. to be the best you gotta beat the best

[Townsville Titan]

Cooper, Gasnier, Tahu, Baderus... where will the injury concernes end? I hope its just an act to mess with Queenslands plans or we might be in for a long night come wednesday...

GO THE BLUES!!!

[Queenslander]

Just reported on channel nine:

Craig Gower is in doubt and a SOS has been sent to Andrew Johns.....talk about a beat up. If he wants to get his head smashed in than let him....BRING IT ON!

[Dragons]

Just reported on channel nine:

Craig Gower is in doubt and a SOS has been sent to Andrew Johns.....talk about a beat up. If he wants to get his head smashed in than let him....BRING IT ON!
Heard that just now while eating dinner. Joey gunna dance around you canetoads. About time we had some good news.

[Teegy]

Just reported on channel nine:

Craig Gower is in doubt and a SOS has been sent to Andrew Johns.....talk about a beat up. If he wants to get his head smashed in than let him....BRING IT ON!
thats crap. why cant players actually stick to their decisions. Webke has been able to so why can you blues

[Super Cronk]

Another injury? bloody hell.

If Joey gets called up then thats a joke...he is retired for stuffs sake. Orford or Kimmorley would be next in line if Gower was out.

[Queenslander]

thats crap. why cant players actually stick to their decisions. Webke has been able to so why can you blues

Exactly why doesnt NSW actually try to focus on the future, they cant keep going back to Andrew Johns time after time.

[Super Cronk]

Exactly why doesnt NSW actually try to focus on the future, they cant keep going back to Andrew Johns time after time.

Yeah not like QLD have ever done that ;)

[Queenslander]

Yeah not like QLD have ever done that ;)

If you are refering to Allan Langer than you are wrong, as I remember he wasnt retired from rep footy ;), he was only playing in England thus it was harder for him to be selected.

[Super Cronk]

May not have been retired but he was still called into the side to save your backsides.

[Queenslander]

May not have been retired but he was still called into the side to save your backsides.

Well true, but we didnt have any other first grade halfbacks to call upon....Im 1000% sure that NSW has a few more halfbacks in the NRL ;)

[Super Cronk]

foxsports.com.au

ANDREW Johns has turned down a plea to make a shock return to State of Origin football following an injury to NSW halfback Craig Gower at tonight's training session at Telstra Stadium.

Gower injured his knee in a collision with NSW teammate Steve Menzies, prompting Blues officials to send out and SOS for Johns should the Penrith No.7 be ruled out.

Johns, who retired from representative football last month, considered heeding the call before turning the offer down tonight.

"He won't be playing," said Johns' manager, John Fordham tonight.

"They called him in the event somebody was unable to play, but the answer is no for two reasons.

"The first reason is the lack of mental preparation for the game.

"Two, he's carrying a back injury – not serious – from the game last weekend.

"He's got to get that fixed up for next weekend, so he is definitely unavailable for selection if they need to find a replacement halfback.

"Mentally and physically he's not ready to play, plus he's retired from Origin football.


"That decision has been reinforced tonight.

"I'm not surprised they've gone for him, he's one of the few people that could do it (at short notice)."

----------

So who do we think will get the job?

Orford?
Kimmorley?
Finch?
other...

*edit*:

lmao...just reading now that apprently orford also has a leg injury and may not be able to replace Gower if he is ruled out....

[brn2bwyld]

IMO itz 2 la8 2 bring in a new halfback. Wing should move inton starting side and bring lukie l;ewis onto bench. Of course Anasta will really have to sterp up


I mean really, really

[Queenslander]

Well thank goodness that he is sticking to his retirement. :thumbsup:

[Kallan]

Not good news for the Blues! Just heard it on the news.

[Dragons]

Well true, but we didnt have any other first grade halfbacks to call upon....Im 1000% sure that NSW has a few more halfbacks in the NRL ;)
Ya could of pulled them out of the state league if ya had balls! No, you got backdoor Benny to ring Alfie and say " come back home Alfie and play SOO we need you" ( it was a good call though)
By the way who going into the game favourite's now. Bet it still NSW (thats so wrong). Another thing Dragons have been accused about is the eleven in a row premierships ( Thats all we got crap). It will be eleven in a row since the Maroons have won a game at Telstra, I like my eleven premierships thanks :hi:

[Kallan]

It will be eleven in a row since the Maroons have won a game at Telstra

All about to change though

[Queenslander]

Finch called into NSW Origin side
Tuesday, May 23, 2006 - 9:25 PM

Sydney Roosters halfback Brett Finch has been called into the NSW State of Origin squad to replace the injured Craig Gower.

Finch received the call up for Wednesday night's series opener at Telstra Stadium after Gower suffered knee cartilage damage after colliding with teammate Steve Menzies during the side's final training run on Tuesday afternoon.

The match will be only Finch's second in the sky blue jersey following his previous match for NSW in 2004.

Earlier, Andrew Johns turned down a plea to make a return to Origin football in Gower's place.

In a further injury development, back-up hooker Luke Priddis will suit up and participate in the NSW side's warm-up just in case Danny Buderus is a late scratching for the match.

Buderus is still in doubt with a lower back injury, with coach Graham Murray prepared to give the Knights hooker until just before kick-off to prove his fitness.

"We'll give him till the last minute and if that means that Luke Lewis and Luke Priddis get warmed up with us and we had to make a change because he's in a bit of discomfort, we'd do it then," Murray said.

"Definitely, (Priddis) will be part of the warm-up squad and part of the team for tomorrow, for sure.

"There's also a logistic thing there with (naming the side) an hour before (kick-off), so we'll abide by all the rules."

Buderus, who will continue to work with physiotherapist Liz Street in an attempt to relieve the back spasms, said he was hopeful of running out to face the Maroons.

"There's pain there, I know what sort of pain there is to play in Origin, it's the most physical game you can play so I won't go out there half-hearted," he said.

"I had an injury a couple of years ago and it's a different one ... I've never had a back injury like this."

Lewis is on standby for Eels centre Timana Tahu, who has been struggling with a stomach virus but is expected to play.

"He's fine, he did a little bit (of training) this morning," Murray said.

"He experienced some discomfort yesterday and he's fine today."

The Maroons are expected to make some late adjustments to their line-up, with Steve Bell to shift from the wing to the centres in a swap with Brent Tate. Murray is also preparing for enforcer Carl Webb to come into the starting side.

"I think he might (start) - I would," Murray said.

The match is unlikely to be a sellout, with 12,000 tickets still available.

Source: AAP

[Queenslander]

Come on NSW get your act together still 12,000 tickets left, and you guys were complaining about not getting a second game this year :ok:

[Kallan]

Come on NSW get your act together still 12,000 tickets left, and you guys were complaining about not getting a second game this year :ok:

lol :rotflmao:
Finch did play pretty well in the the City - Country, but i have no idea how he will go in SOO this year.

[Social Loafer]

$%$#]

What a load of crap, Anasta and Finch have been average at best this year and yet they are the NSW halvesm goes to show origin is about who you play for :curse: :curse: not how good you are :curse:

[Queenslander]

It's good to have Mal on side
By Darren Lockyer
Quensland captain
May 24, 2006

HEADING into one of the most crucial State of Origin series since the concept began in 1980, it is nice to know Mal Meninga is on my side - Queensland.

The only thing larger than Big Mal's giant frame is his reputation as one of the game's and, more importantly this week, Queensland's greatest players.

He has a presence when he enters a room like few other people I have encountered.

Mal doesn't say a great deal but what he does say is usually direct and insightful. Since the new-look Queensland squad gathered at the Sunshine Coast last week, he has educated us about what it means to play for Queensland in State of Origin and why it was such a big deal in the early years.

It has been an eye-opening experience. No-one in the squad saw the interstate matches before State of Origin, when Queensland was a laughing stock. Before this week we probably did not realise what drove those early Queensland teams in the 1980s, of which Mal was an integral part.

Mal has clearly made it his responsibility to make sure that history is not forgotten because it was what created that famous Maroons spirit and made Origin so important to so many.

Origin coaching is very different from NRL level. You have blokes from a range of different clubs thrown together, with a week to work on a game that will get you through the most demanding 80 minutes of football you will play.

The tactics which coaches work on throughout a season in the NRL are irrelevant. In playing terms you want to establish a solid defensive pattern and set a framework for your attack.

From there, coaches more or less rely on the fact they have 17 extremely talented and committed players and focus on having each individual at his physical and mental peak by kick-off.

Mal has set about recreating the camaraderie that was so central to those early Queensland teams by getting some of the legends of Queensland rugby league involved. Blokes such as Trevor Gillmeister, Allan Langer, John Ribot, Greg Oliphant and Bob Lindner have all been in camp at different times and the response from the players has been amazing.

Rookies such as Greg Inglis, Sam Thaiday and Dallas Johnson have settled in like they have been here their whole lives.

The older blokes such as Petero Civoniceva and Steve Price have been bouncing around like teenagers and it has created a fantastic atmosphere.

Mal has done a great job balancing the "bonding" side of things with the physical and team preparations.

Still, we are under no illusion how big a job we face against Graham Murray's side. The Blues have had a few obstacles to overcome, notably the injury to Craig Gower last night, but having won the past three series, nobody here is fooled by those who claim they cannot win because of it.

They have more than a dozen Test players in their squad and boast an enormous forward pack, with a bloke named Danny Buderus working behind them.

Andrew Johns might not be there but Mark Gasnier and Matt King are proven performers at Origin level.

But our preparation really could not have been better and I am genuinely confident we will put in a very good showing tonight. I have struck up a nice combination with Johnathan Thurston, Cameron Smith and Matt Bowen, who have all matured immeasurably as footballers over the past 12 months.

JT and Cam are just sensational and they are already leaders among the group and out wide we have our own strike weapons, Inglis and Justin Hodges, who have been the two form backs in the NRL this year.

Origin football pushes players to their absolute limit. The difference between winning and losing comes down to players finding something to give when they think there is nothing left in the tank.

It is what separates a champion team from a team of champions. and helped so many underdog Queensland teams to victory. Our path to success has been made easier by Big Mal showing us the way.

The Australian

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

End to three years of misery
Paul Malone
May 24, 2006

QUEENSLAND legend Mal Meninga has revealed the extent of eight months of planning which goes on the line tonight when his Maroons strive to wrest back State of Origin supremacy.

Meninga told The Courier-Mail yesterday that his mission to end Queensland's streak of three losing series had led him to consult coaches, players and a sports psychologist to ensure he was prepared.

Meninga, in his first game as Queensland coach, has invited some of the biggest names in Maroons history into Origin camp. They are fine-tuning a team which includes seven rookies.

Mentors Kerry Boustead, Mark Coyne, Allan Langer, Trevor Gillmeister and Greg Dowling were appointed to guide young players through the pressures of an Origin call-up.

In all, six Origin captains have entertained the nervous rookies with tales of past glories.

"I loved that vibe which the (current) players give off when they hear about what happened in Origin in the past," said Meninga, who has not coached in the NRL since 2001.

And punters are convinced.

The Maroons have been heavily backed to win tonight's clash at Telstra Stadium.

The Courier Mail

[broncos_cow_girl]

Go Queensland!!!!!!

[Super Cronk]

$%$#]

What a load of crap, Anasta and Finch have been average at best this year and yet they are the NSW halvesm goes to show origin is about who you play for :curse: :curse: not how good you are :curse:

schifty...still have faith? lol...

[Teegy]

for those wondering how they can tune into the game

Queenslanders can watch the action live by tuning into Channel Nine from 7.30pm or Fox Sports Two from 10.30pm. Radio 612, 4BC and Triple M will also broadcast live

ill be watching nine but i always listen to Roy and HG on Tripple j

[Kallan]

I am so excited about this game, I took my Maroons flag to school today, lol.
This is Queensland's greatest chance in a while to win the whole series. And if they don't.....

[Titanium_BD1103]

LOL yeah if they don't...

WELL YOU QUEENSLANDERS SHOULD BE HAPPY.. YOU ARE FAVOURITES for this game according to TAB Sportsbet and their discussion on Channel 10 news.

ALL I HAVE TO SAY TO THAT IS...

GO NSW BLUES AND SHOW THEM WHY TELSTRA IS OUR FORTRESS.. happy to be underdogs in this one.... :D :D

[~Wild Child~]

I can't believex x x x has MAROON coloured :beer: :dizzy: :win:

[DeeGan]

It's weird, the NSW were favourites and now with the inclusion of Finch (who played well in the Country jersey and in his last Origin start) they are underdogs...some good value on SportsTab given QLD have not won at Telstra in their last 10 starts there.

CAN NOT WAIT FOR THE GAME!!!!!!!

As much as most hate Gould (I don't BTW), his prelude to the game is awesome, hope he doesn't let us down this year.

For QLD fans, the great Allan Langer is handing out the jerseys right about now (7pm), how must the rookies be feeling...an Origin legend like Alf, his presence in the sheds will be inspiring.

[Titanium_BD1103]

HALFTIME SPOILER:

NSW BLUES 14- QLD MAROONS 0

Notes

- What a defensive effort by NSW, Mason is playing tremendously well and O'Donnell was great early... Eric Grothe is sensational

- Finch is showing why he is a good player... he is stepping up in a big game and providing plenty of opporutnities.. good effort there.

- QLD look disjointed and missing something in both attack and defense. Lockyer looks like he has too much responsibility at the moment and is struggling under it.

Only Halftime though... and looking forward to second half, if QLD can get it together a bit more.. we should be in for a great game.. :D :D

[Titanium_BD1103]

FULLTIME SPOILER

NSW BLUES 17- QLD MAROONS 16

-What a match.. as always QLD came back and came back strong... NSW had a few mistakes but Finch proved to us all, especially me why he is a great player...cool, calm, collected and slotted it home like a treat.. :clap:

- Special mention to Willie Mason, Brent Kite, Steve Menzies and Andrew Ryan, great games by them all and provided NSW with the power to let the backs run.

-Eric Grothe Jr has done his father proud and should be very happy with that performance.

- Greg Inglis.. had a tough night a first but showed why he will be a class act for Queensland for many a year to come.

GREAT GAME, GREAT VICTORY... GO THE BLUES but it will be tough in QLD.. :win: :win: :win:

[DeeGan]

Hats off to NSW, they deserved the win. Great comeback from the QLD boys in the second half though IMO they were lucky to get as close as they did. No excuses here from me, hats off to Brett Finch who was sensational and he just went in to Origin folklore as a NSW hero with that performance and kick. I guess everyone can (to borrow a line from Brett) "kiss his a$$".

Darren Lockyer was ordinary, the forwards were ordinary, Inglis was ordinary barring two tries and Bowen may have played himself out of Origin two. Hats off to Johnathan Thurston who tried his damndest all night for QLD.

Well played, I will wear the sig/avatar for a week.... :D

[Titanium_BD1103]

I really felt for Darren Lockyer tonight.. he was ordinary.. but he was ordinary as they relied on him SO MUCH tonight... he was tackling his heart out in defence and therefore had nothing in attack.. :(

Prelim Notes for QLD to improve

- Get some experience in the mid forward pack, they need strong forwards and a stronger bench... there is too much inexperience there

- Get Thurston into the game more... not sure how but get him in there, take some pressure of Lockyer

- Get Bell off the Wing.. he's a centre and would do a lot more damage as a centre

EDIT: Just watching Channel 9 and they came up with a good point... not one that will help the players in the game tonight.. but QLD need to PICK PLAYERS IN POSITION... Inglis struggled not being at fullback, Bell not at centre.. you can't try and fit players where they are not use to playing.. ;)


Prelim Notes for NSW to improve

- Don't throw pressure passes, keep the ball and complete sets

- Don't rest and think things will be ok and try to play miracle football.. QLD will always come back... :)

[Dragons]

Hats off to NSW, they deserved the win. Great comeback from the QLD boys in the second half though IMO they were lucky to get as close as they did. No excuses here from me, hats off to Brett Finch who was sensational and he just went in to Origin folklore as a NSW hero with that performance and kick. I guess everyone can (to borrow a line from Brett) "kiss his a$$".

Darren Lockyer was ordinary, the forwards were ordinary, Inglis was ordinary barring two tries and Bowen may have played himself out of Origin two. Hats off to Johnathan Thurston who tried his damndest all night for QLD.

Well played, I will wear the sig/avatar for a week.... :D
At least you got the gonads too, not like some broken record. Willie was my man of the match and good on ya for keeping ya word.

[DeeGan]

There are some positional headaches for game two for mine with QLD. Who do they play at fullback? Mal apparently preferred Lockyer to fullback in game one, will he get his wish in game two with Prince coming in to the side at halfback moving Thurston to five-eight?

Greg Inglis I should not be too hard on - he scored a double and kept trying which is more than can be said for his more experienced counterparts. Will we ever see Inglis drop a ball that hits him on the chest again? Unlikely.

As much as Matt Bowen is my favourite player in the game, we cannot accomodate him at fullback when he is wanting to let the ball bounce on occasion like he did tonight. He took some good bombs, though I think we will see Karmichael Hunt or Greh Inglis in the number one jersey.

What now for NSW selectors?

Brett Finch for mine has to wear the seven in game two, he was great with 36hrs preparation, will he be better for an entire camp in this company? You have to lean towards yes, he was brilliant.

Brent Tate struggled, he looked like a player short of a run...I think he will play game two though he might see himself on the wing with Bell in the centres. I still cannot fathom the move there from selectors.

Carl Webb - ordinary. I sighted the fact that he was picked on reputation before the game, he showed that tonight. He was a non event and looked sluggish, he will be luck y to keep his spot.

I will devour the game again over the next couple of days. I am disappointed in the performance from QLD, again, to get as close as we did does not reflect IMO the dominance and inept display of QLD for the majority of the game.

Brett Hodgson stood tall tonight, as did Menzies...

Cannot wait for game two!

[Teegy]

Willie was My MOM to. hows every one like my new look

[Dragons]

Too Many Beers And So F...ing Happy

[shavenjas]

Hats off to NSW, they deserved the win. Great comeback from the QLD boys in the second half though IMO they were lucky to get as close as they did. No excuses here from me, hats off to Brett Finch who was sensational and he just went in to Origin folklore as a NSW hero with that performance and kick. I guess everyone can (to borrow a line from Brett) "kiss his a$$".

Darren Lockyer was ordinary, the forwards were ordinary, Inglis was ordinary barring two tries and Bowen may have played himself out of Origin two. Hats off to Johnathan Thurston who tried his damndest all night for QLD.

Well played, I will wear the sig/avatar for a week.... :D
Yeah i agree hats off to NSW well done the blues (from the broken record)
the only thing is QLD did play shocking and only lost 17/16 god help the Blues if QLD turn up in 3 weeks to play, Go Queensland we can win the next two games 1 games wins you nothing, but full credit to the Blues on there win tonight.

[Queenslander]

Great comeback and it was oh so close for the Maroons. I tip my hat to the Blues who had a great (and assisted by poor QLD play) first half.

However my question is: who else thinks that the second try scored by the Blues was off a forward pass by Gasiner?

The maroons however have alot to work on, and they would have learnt from this experience.

[Steelers]

Awesome game! NSW came out on fire and played very well... the middle period was fairly even with QLD coming home strongly (as usual). Brilliant game from Brett Finch who IMO just missed out on MOTM.

[Dakink]

WooHoo!!!

Ill put my thoughts on tomorrow - And congrats to those who have already changed their sigs!! Nice....

[~Wild Child~]

Congratulations to NSW!!!...QLD played with a whole lot of spirit, which should take them to a win in game two.:)

[Super Cronk]

holy crap nsw.

I thought QLD were going to run riot over them....

ill post more thoughts later.

[broncos_cow_girl]

Good game, still can't believe Queensland lost though :')

[Queenslander]

Final Result & Stats:

NSW: 17
Tries: 3
Goals: 2
Field Goals: 1
Penalty Goals: 1
Half-time score: 14
Try scorers: Brett Finch 10m, Matt King 17m, Willie Mason 22m
Conversions: Brett Hodgson 23m
Penalties: 3
Scrums: 4
Possession: 48%
Comp/Sets: 26/37
Tackles (missed): 24
Offloads: 16
Errors: 15
Hit-ups (m): 52

QLD: 16
Tries: 3
Goals: 2
Field Goals: 0
Penalty Goals: 0
Half-time score: 0
Try scorers: Greg Inglis 53m, Greg Inglis 72m, Steven Bell 76m
Conversions: Johnathan Thurston 54m, Johnathan Thurston 78m
Penalties: 4
Scrums: 9
Possession: 52%
Comp/Sets: 30/39
Tackles (missed): 44
Offloads: 16
Errors: 11
Hit-ups (m): 61

[Eel 33]

Im glad i wasn't there last night, i couldn't stand walking out of that bloody stadium again without a win. Good game though.

[Super Cronk]

anyone else notice the commentators giving inglis a hard time?

He made a couple of silly mistakes but the way the commentators carried on was ridculous. He did something like 2 knocks ons which can be brought down to being nervous....and he did look a little uncomfortable on the wing in defence. But once he got past that he got his hands on the ball more and looked dangerous.

[Teegy]

i gave Iglis 2 points for the Best 3 on the night. he made a couple of mistakes but if it wasn't for him QLD wouldn't have been in the game.

[Queenslander]

I hated how Gould kept calling Inglis "Good boy", it sounded like Gould was talking to a dog :hmm: Inglis was under alot of pressure on the night, and he did bring Queensland out of hole that they were in and he was probably the best Queenslander on the field.

[qld power]

god hope tate isnt in the game 2 hopefully billy be bak by then chuck bell in the centres

[qld power]

and specail kudos goes to my chum mr hodges love when he foxed griothe to have a swing at him :box:

[Teegy]

to bad Grothe landed one sweet on him

[piXie]

I thought the game needed an extra half just so queensland could keep improving. Shocker of a first half but i think now that the rookies have experience and have played as a team, they will be all fired up with a home crowd backing them! No doubt they will win the next game!

[maroon man]

I hate to say it but I think NSW went off the boil rather than Queensland outplayed them in the second half. The NSW forwards, when they concentrated, just made miles through our guys and they can be expected to do the same in game2. Besides, they will have Minichello and Gower back and that will make them a heck of a lot stronger. I think we are a couple of years off winning a series yet and it certainly will not be while Lockyer is playing five-eighth.

[Titanium_BD1103]

This piece is really good way of explaining game one.. and I reckon it is the best piece I have read about SOO so far... :)

From:www.couriermail.com.au

Bolt from the blue
Mike Colman
May 26, 2006


MAL Meninga stood at Sydney Airport yesterday morning looking very much like a Texas poker player who had gone all-in with three jacks and been trumped by the river card.

With a joker, no less.

Brett Finch? Who would have picked Brett Finch to be the matchwinner?

Certainly not former Queensland selector Les Geeves. He bumped into NSW brains trust Bob Fulton and Bob McCarthy before kick-off and couldn't help himself.

"Thanks for picking Finch," he told them. "Even with only one game under his belt I would have gone for Kimmorley."

If only the Blues had.

It had to be one of the greatest form reversals of all time. If Finch had been a racehorse Meninga would have demanded a swab.

Finch's own club supporters have been burning him in effigy outside Easts Leagues Club for weeks.

Now, after scoring a try, setting up another two and kicking the winning field goal with a minute on the clock they'll be naming a street after him at Bondi Junction.

Finch's performance was all the talk on Sydney TV and radio yesterday. That and the runaway train first-half performance of Willie Mason.

The Blues supporters had won bragging rights once again and they were . . . well, bragging.

Queensland fans had more pressing matters to concern them. Such as working out what went wrong and how it can be fixed before the rematch on June 14.

Ask any Maroon supporter down south yesterday (they were easy to pick; walking around muttering to themselves and looking decidedly green around the gills) and you'd get any number of theories, suggestions and "if onlys".

Some felt captain Darren Lockyer should have taken the two points on offer after his Blues counterpart Danny Buderus had a brain explosion in front of the posts, then gambled the farm on a last-gasp converted try.

Others were still scratching their heads at his decision to kick early in the tackle count with time fast running out.

A lot of these same people, of course, think making a quick decision under pressure is choosing whether to start Origin night on XXXX Gold or go straight to the Bundies.

There were calls for pint-sized fullback Matt Bowen to move to the bench to make way for Greg Inglis and others for Steve Bell to come into the centres at the expense of Brent Tate.

Most of all there was a plea for Queensland selectors to rush in that fearsome, gigantic, fire-breathing forward who no one has heard of yet in order to give Willie Mason, Mark O'Meley and co a taste of their own medicine. As soon as they can find one, that is.

One devoted fan had no doubt about the way to get the Maroons back into the winners' circle.

Sam Thaiday's mum believes it's just a case of Big Mal giving her boy Sam more game time.

Like all good mothers, she would have been happy to pass on the tip at the after-match function, if only Sam had let her.

Chances are Mal would have been grateful for the heads-up. After watching his blueprint for a Queensland renaissance ripped apart by a couple of vociferous Bulldogs named Mason and O'Meley for the first half, he left Telstra at least knowing he had something to work with.

A tweak here, a change there and anything could happen. In fact, with an ounce of luck he could have been the one sporting the biggest smile this side of Luna Park.

Not that Mal was the biggest loser on the night. That dubious honour had to go to NSW rugby union captain Chris Whitaker.

Preparing for a big night in front of the TV, Whitaker did the right thing and took his young daughter to the local park in the afternoon to get her tired out and into bed early.

It all went perfectly to plan too. Right up until halftime when she appeared, in tears. She had left her favourite doll at the park and until she had it safely under her arm there was no way Dad was watching anything, let alone State of Origin.

A quick mercy dash to the park turned into a 45-minute search.

By the time Whits got home with the doll, Brett Finch had just finished his 42nd interview of the night.

"What happened?" he was still asking yesterday morning.

That's the thing with Origin. For some it looks like child's play; for others, just fumbling in the dark.

[Poida]

:') though i dont have many . losing was heartbreaking for maroons fans.
but my highlighs were inglis tries and bells try.
oh ill never forget thurstons magnificant goal to convert bells try