In a stunning display of footy, Mitchell Moses orchestrated a commanding performance that saw the New South Wales Blues crush the Queensland Maroons 38-18 in Game 2 of the State of Origin series at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. The win, witnessed by over 90,000 fans, sets the stage for a thrilling decider at Suncorp Stadium.
Moses Shines Bright
Mitchell Moses, often criticised for his inconsistency, silenced his detractors with a career-defining game. The Blues halfback was pivotal, contributing four try assists, a feat that ties the Origin record set by Brad Fittler in 2000. His masterful playmaking and strategic kicks kept the Maroons defence in disarray throughout the match.
"Mitch Moses was phenomenal tonight," said Blues legend Andrew Johns. "I've never seen anything like this at this level."
Dominance from the Start
From the first whistle, the Blues demonstrated their intent. Stephen Crichton’s early break set the tone, although the opportunity slipped away. The Blues quickly regrouped, with Moses and Jarome Luai dictating the tempo. A penalty against Queensland’s Lindsay Collins for a high shot gave NSW an early advantage, and they capitalised fully.
Liam Martin opened the scoring in the 11th minute, exploiting a gap between Tom Dearden and Jaydn Su’A. Brian To’o followed with a spectacular try, courtesy of a slick flick pass from Latrell Mitchell. The Blues' momentum was unstoppable as Zac Lomax and To’o further extended the lead.
Tactical Brilliance
Moses' tactical acumen was on full display as he executed a pinpoint cross-field kick for Lomax, who out-jumped his marker to score. Minutes later, a perfectly placed grubber kick set up To’o for his second try. By halftime, the Blues led 34-0, the largest halftime lead in Origin history.
Blues debutant Dylan Edwards also made a significant impact. His defensive prowess was highlighted by a crucial one-on-one tackle against Jaydn Su’A, preventing an early Queensland try. Edwards capped his night with a try on debut, thanks to a looping pass from Moses.
Queensland’s Struggle
The Maroons, renowned for their resilience, struggled to gain a foothold in the game. Despite brief flashes of brilliance, including tries from Jeremiah Nanai and Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow, Queensland couldn’t match NSW’s intensity. The Maroons were hampered by errors and penalties, unable to convert their limited opportunities into points.
Second Half: Maintaining Control
Even with a commanding lead, the Blues maintained pressure in the second half. Tempers flared in the 51st minute, resulting in sin bins for Liam Martin and Patrick Carrigan after a melee. Despite these disruptions, the Blues remained composed. Queensland managed two consolation tries, but Moses’ precision pass to Edwards sealed the deal, making it 38-18.
Eyes on the Decider
With the series now level, all eyes turn to the decider at Suncorp Stadium. The Blues, buoyed by their record-breaking performance, aim to clinch their first series win in Queensland since 2005. The Maroons, however, will seek redemption on home turf.
Key Performances
Mitchell Moses: Four try assists, exceptional playmaking.
Dylan Edwards: Strong debut with key defensive plays and a try.
Latrell Mitchell: Dynamic in attack, contributing significantly to the scoreline.
Final Thoughts
As the Blues celebrate a historic victory, the focus shifts to the final showdown. The stage is set for an epic conclusion to this year’s State of Origin series, promising high drama and fierce competition.
Stay tuned for the ultimate clash at Suncorp Stadium, where the battle for Origin supremacy will reach its thrilling climax.
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