It was only a consolation but an impressive victory over the Maroons in game three could have big a say on the futures of several NSW stars - including the coach.
Just as some dance like nobody is watching,NSW should play like the result doesn’t matter after a much-improved performance in a dead rubber.
Forget about a rare clean sweep for the Maroons:the Blues are trying to save the Origin futures of their coach and captain. Just don’t call it a dead rubber.
NSW - and their captain - haven’t been at their best in this year’s Origin series,but that just means we will see a big performance in game three at Accor Stadium.
The under-pressure NSW skipper said he was grateful to be spared the selection axe after admitting he had not played up to his usual level in this year’s series.
Stephen Crichton’s runaway effort stopped by a 34-year-old halfback and a prop diving on two loose balls in a minute – the Maroons simply wanted to win game two more than the Blues.
He was the biggest name in the NRL without a contract for next year,but Frizell is on the verge of settling his future.
Coach Brad Fittler has borne much of the blame for the Blues’ woes,but NSW advisor Greg Alexander says some criticism is unacceptable.
Not how to bowl outswingers but how to handle bouncers from those heathens in the media.
The criticism of Brad Fittler in the past few weeks has been extreme. His NSW side will do whatever it takes in the State of Origin series finale to restore some pride.
Brad Fittler will happily step aside if he thinks there’s someone better out there to coach the Blues,but at this point he doesn’t think there is.