**The Queensland Maroons Dominate State of Origin Series and Win in Style**
The Queensland Maroons emerged victorious in the 2023 State of Origin series, with an impressive 32-6 victory over the New South Wales Blues in game two. The Maroons’ dominance was evident from the start, as they took control of the game soon after Tom Trbojevic’s early exit due to injury.
In a comprehensive assessment of the match, The Mole from Wide World of Sports provides his analysis of the performances of all 34 players who took the field. Let’s dive into the highlights!
1. Reece Walsh: Walsh showcased his talent with a brilliant break early in the second half, followed by his exceptional playmaking skills that resulted in two tries for Queensland. Although his late send-off was a moment of recklessness, he deserves a rating of 8.5 for his overall performance.
2. Xavier Coates: Coates continued to impress as he scored yet another Origin try and displayed solidity on the right wing. A rating of 6.5 is well-deserved for his contribution.
3. Valentine Holmes: Always the class finisher, Holmes proved his worth by securing two crucial tries – the first in each half. His rating stands at 7.5 for his consistent performance.
4. Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow: Tabuai-Fidow was a nightmare for the Blues’ defense, causing havoc out wide and contributing with a try and an assist. A rating of 8 reflects his impressive performance.
5. Murray Taulagi: Taulagi had a field day against the clueless Blues outside backs. He defended strongly, scored a try, and assisted another, earning a rating of 7.5.
6. Cameron Munster: While not as spectacular as game one, Munster still amassed an impressive 175 meters and showcased his kicking skills. A rating of 7 acknowledges his contribution.
7. Daly Cherry-Evans: Cherry-Evans stepped up as an exceptional captain, creating and saving tries with his remarkable cover defense. He also made impressive breaks, backing up his forwards. An outstanding rating of 9 is well-deserved for his leadership.
8. Thomas Flegler: Flegler had limited game time and failed to make a significant impact on the field, with just five runs. Thus, a rating of 5 reflects his performance.
9. Ben Hunt: Although he didn’t make any runs during his 30 minutes on the field, Hunt displayed strong defensive capabilities. A rating of 4.5 reflects his contribution.
10. Tino Fa’asuamaleaui: Fa’asuamaleaui rattled the Blues with his powerful hits and contributed to Queensland’s forward dominance. His rating stands at 7 for his impressive performance.
11. David Fifita: The Blues defense contained Fifita quite well, limiting him to 81 meters from 10 runs. Although not his best game, his efforts deserve a rating of 5.
12. Reuben Cotter: Cotter justified his inclusion in the starting lineup by running for over 120 meters and displaying strong defensive skills. A rating of 7 reflects his commendable performance.
13. Patrick Carrigan: Carrigan brought energy and enthusiasm to the Maroons’ forward dominance, playing a crucial role in their victory. His rating stands at 6.
14. Harry Grant: Despite being closely marked by the Blues’ defense, Grant provided essential services from dummyhalf and supported his team effectively. A rating of 6.5 is well-deserved for his efforts.
15. Lindsay Collins: Collins made a significant impact from the bench, showcasing his skills in attack and defense with some crucial plays. With a rating of 8.5, he played a vital role in the Maroons’ success.
16. Jeremiah Nanai: Nanai was a constant threat to the Blues’ defense, displaying his speed and agility with wide running. His late try earned him a rating of 6.5.
17. Mo Fotuaika: Limited game time prevented Fotuaika from making a substantial impact off the bench, resulting in a rating of 4.
On the New South Wales side:
1. James Tedesco: Tedesco performed well in terms of yardage gained, but failed to create any significant opportunities in attack. A rating of 5 acknowledges his efforts.
2. Brian To’o: To’o made the most of the few chances he had and showcased his powerful runs. A rating of 6 reflects his contribution.
3. Stephen Crichton: Crichton missed a golden opportunity to score an intercept try, which turned out to be a pivotal moment in the game. He receives a rating of 3.5.
4. Tom Trbojevic: Unfortunately, Trbojevic’s game was cut short due to injury, leaving the Blues short-handed in the outside backs. With minimal time on the field, he receives a rating of 1.
5. Josh Addo-Carr: Addo-Carr had limited chances in attack and struggled under Queensland’s kicking game pressure. His rating stands at 3.5.
6. Jarome Luai: Luai showcased his creativity with several half breaks, but failed to convert them into points. His late send-off slightly marred his performance, resulting in a rating of 6.
7. Mitchell Moses: Moses was given the responsibility in a tough situation but failed to make a significant impact. A rating of 4 reflects his performance.
8. Junior Paulo: Paulo was overshadowed by Queensland’s dominance in the forward exchanges and failed to leave a mark. His rating stands at 4.
9. Reece Robson: Making his Origin debut, Robson struggled to threaten the Maroons’ defense. A rating of 4 reflects his performance.
10. Payne Haas: Haas stood out among his fellow forwards, making impressive yardage and showcasing his strength. A rating of 6 acknowledges his efforts.
11. Tyson Frizell: Frizell had a lackluster performance, making only four runs for 42 meters. A rating of 3 is warranted for his subpar display.
12. Hudson Young: Although known as a “hit man,” Young failed to make his presence felt in both attack and defense. His rating stands at 4.
13. Isaah Yeo: Yeo tried his best as a link man but struggled to overcome Queensland’s solid defense. He receives a rating of 5.
14. Stefano Utoikamanu: Utoikamanu seemed overwhelmed by the magnitude of the game and struggled to make an impact. A rating of 3.5 reflects his performance.
15. Cameron Murray: Murray came on when the game was all but over, and though he tried hard, his efforts had minimal effect. His rating stands at 5.
16. Liam Martin: Martin couldn’t replicate his impressive performance from game one off the bench. Nonetheless, his hard work earns him a rating of 6.
17. Damien Cook: Cook found himself out of position when thrown into the center position due to Trbojevic’s injury. Despite some lapses, he managed to score the Blues’ only try. A rating of 4 reflects his overall performance.
In conclusion, the Queensland Maroons demonstrated their dominance in the 2023 State of Origin series against the New South Wales Blues. While the Maroons showcased exceptional teamwork, creativity, and resilience, the Blues struggled to find their footing. Congratulations to the Maroons for their well-deserved victory!
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Hasibur Rahaman is a passionate sports journalist. He covers everything from cricket to field hockey, delivering up-to-the-minute updates and in-depth analysis of sporting events, both within India and on the international stage.
