NSW Blues Desperate for Victory in Origin II Clash with Queensland at the MCG

Queensland can wrap up a third straight series at the MCG on Wednesday night but Maroons legend Cooper Cronk admits he’s the “least confident he’s been” in any game of Billy Slater’s tenure.

A new-look NSW Blues will be absolutely desperate to square the series after their Game One loss. Desperation forces you to the contest earlier than your opposition, according to Cronk.

The Blues have made five changes to their Game One team and Cronk has identified fullback Dylan Edwards as the danger man for Queensland tonight. He believes Edwards has been building up for this moment and is ready to make an impact.

Rugby league legend Michael Ennis has predicted a potential bench switch for the Blues, which could target a tiring Queensland pack. Cameron Murray‘s inclusion in the team, along with Isaah Yeo on the bench, could provide NSW with the energy needed to secure a victory.

The Panthers have shut down any hopes of Nathan Cleary making a surprise comeback for the State of Origin series decider. Cleary’s return is expected for their round 20 match against the Dolphins, ruling him out of Origin III.

Sydney Roosters prop Terrell May gave a curious prediction for the match, simply saying “Queensland” in a video. The player’s allegiances might raise questions, given his NSW potential in the future.

Queensland assistant coach Josh Hannay playfully denied any intentions behind the Maroons’ late arrival to a joint press conference, brushing off claims of mind games against the Blues.

In just his second State of Origin appearance, NSW winger Zac Lomax has reportedly been given the goalkicking duties for the Blues in Game II. The Blues coaching staff made the decision late Tuesday, opting for Lomax over Mitch Moses and Latrell Mitchell.

Blues edge forward Angus Crichton regrets not reacting to a “cheap shot” by Maroons’ Daly Cherry-Evans in Game I. Crichton vows to make up for that in Game II and help secure a win for NSW at the MCG.

Blues coach Michael Maguire fired another shot at Billy Slater and the Maroons ahead of Game II, expressing his displeasure with Queensland’s lack of punctuality at a press conference. The tension between the two sides adds to the excitement of the Origin clash.