QUEENSLAND came from behind to tie the State of Origin series before a huge crowd at Melbourne Cricket Ground, skipper Cameron Munster starring in a comfortable win over New South Wales.
Laurie Daley’s Blues scored two early tries to lead 12-2 after 22 minutes.
But after Munster survived an early HIA test, he turned on the class as Queensland narrowed the margin to four by halftime and then took control in the second session.
Midway through the half, NSW did managed to rein in the margin to just eight points but then Billy Slater’s side put its foot on the accelerator again.
The Blues were further depleted when centre Kotoni Staggs was sent to the sin bin during the second half for a late shot on Kalyn Ponga.
Coach Slater said man of the match Sam Walker “oozes confidence in his own ability.
“The more time I spend with Sam, the more I understand the greatness of his game.”
Daley said that “in the second half we missed the mark on a lot of things.
“While we’re disappointed, you don’t lose trust or faith in guys.”
Captain Isaah Yeo added: “They weren’t shooting themselves in the foot like we were.”
QUEENSLAND 44 (Cobbo 3 Loiero Fifita Tabuai-Fidow Collins tries Walker 8 goals) beat NEW SOUTH WALES 24 (Nawaqanitawase 2 Staggs Barnett tries Cleary 4 goals). Referee: Ashley Klein. Crowd: 91,671.
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