Photo Credit: Zero Hanger.
State Of Origin Game 2 will be played Sunday 26th July.
For Queensland, it can be the match that wraps up the 2022 series. For New South Wales, it is a game they are desperate to win to square the series and take it to a decider.
Whilst the first match ended up 16-10 to Queensland, it was generally agreed that Queensland were the better team and dominated New South Wales and that the score was flattering to New South Wales. Brad Fittler, NSW’s coach has responded by sweeping changes, bringing back players such as Angus Crighton and Jake Trbojevic, plus handing a debut to the Bulldog Bomber, Matt Burton, who comes in for Jack Wighton who had to withdraw due to Covid.
Queensland on the other hand have a settled squad. Their “pick and stick”policy in full view. Only change is the experienced Jai Arrow coming in for Cotter who was outstanding for the first game. After an outstanding game in Game 1, big things will be expected from Cameron Munster as well as his captain and half back Daly Cherry-Evans. The QLD forwards dominated the NSW pack in the first match and it is no wonder the QLD is settled.
The one major advantage NSW has is familiarity among the players. 6 of the starting line-up are current Penrith Panthers, with Matt Burton who won a premiership with them last year. NSW will be relying on their star half back Nathan Cleary, who by his own standards and own admission had a quiet game 1. He will need help from his Penrith halves partner Jerome Luai and gun forward Isaiah Yeo.
Out of the 16 NRL clubs, only New Zealand Warriors and Wests Tigers are not represented.
NSW are considered favourites at 1.70 while Queensland are 2.15. For the series, Queensland are 1.40 and New South Wales are 3.00.
Prediction for Game 2: Queensland to win by 14 points.