Qld have won the first game in the tri-series against NSW, 16-10. With a new coach for QLD in Billy Slater, the maroons put on a superb display of teamwork. Number 6, Cameron Munster who showed off his ball skills and footwork was named man of the match. The captain Daly Cherry-Evans nabbed a try along with Valentine Holmes and Dane Gagai. This was Gagai’s 20th origin appearance.
NSW seemed to be lacking in support play with each other and looked a bit lack-lustre in their efforts. Tries went to Jack Wighton and Cameron Murray.
Xavier Coates (QLD) was taken off the field early with an ankle injury and never returned. Kotoni Staggs (NSW) also suffered a shoulder injury.
The crowd attendance was a staggering 80,512 at Sydney’s Olympic Park, also known as Accor Stadium.
Both teams will now meet in three week’s time at Perth’s Optus stadium.