Well, it’s officially game day. We’ve finally made it to the highly anticipated deciding match for State of Origin 2024.
QLD Secured a huge 38-10 victory in Game 1 whilst the Blues clapped back with a 38-18 win to level out the series in Game 2. Now looking forward to Game 3, can NSW defy their Suncorp curse? Statistically, NSW just can’t get the series win at Suncorp, with only two teams claiming the Series Glory in QLD but, the Maroons are feeling the pressure with the Blue’s forwards having such a strong presence this year.
Queensland have made two forced, and one unforced change for Game 3. The unforced change sees Jaydn Su’A drop out, with Kurt Capewell to start in the second-row, and Kalyn Ponga joining the bench. In the backline, Slater was forced to replace both Xavier Coates and Murray Taulagai. The exit of both wingers sees Valentine Holmes shuffle out to the wing after, while Dane Gagai comes into the centres, and Selwyn Cobbo earns a recall on the wing.
Like the Maroons, the Blues have been forced to make one change and made another that was unforced. The injury to Latrell Mitchell sees the star Rabbitoh being replaced by Bradman Best. Meanwhile, Haumole Olakau’atu, who played limited roles in both Game 1 and 2 from the bench, has been replaced by Warriors’ firebrand Mitch Barnett, who brings with him the ability to play both on the edge and in the middle.
Experts are saying it will be won in the forward pack. The punters are saying it will be Queensland. The only thing for certain is that there will be fireworks at Suncorp Stadium on a Wednesday night.
