The stage is set for a thrilling Game 3 of the State of Origin series, and there's no shortage of talking points ahead of this crucial match. From potential lineup changes to tackling techniques and the impact of individual players, let's dive into the key issues that could shape the outcome.
The Blues' Slow Starts and a Potential Solution
One of the most pressing concerns for the NSW Blues is their tendency to start games slowly. Under coach Laurie Daley, the Blues have conceded a significant number of points in the opening 20 minutes of games, a trend that former player Luke Keary believes could be addressed by starting Cameron Murray at lock and moving Isaah Yeo to the front row. This shift, according to Keary, could "stoke a reaction" and improve the team's early game performance.
However, Daley has indicated that he won't be making any late changes, opting to stick with Murray coming off the bench. It remains to be seen whether this decision will pay off, as the Blues can't afford another slow start if they want to keep the series alive.
The Impact of Reece Walsh and Kalyn Ponga
On the Queensland side, the inclusion of Reece Walsh as a "wildcard" could be a game-changer. Former Queensland coach Kevin Walters believes Walsh's presence, alongside Kalyn Ponga, could create a dynamic duo that the Blues will struggle to contain. Walsh's versatility and ability to play multiple positions make him a valuable asset for the Maroons.
Ponga, meanwhile, has been under the microscope for his tackling technique. After a controversial send-off in Game 1, Ponga has acknowledged the need to improve his tackling, and he's turning to his coach, Billy Slater, for guidance. Ponga's willingness to address this issue shows his commitment to the team, and it will be interesting to see if his tackling improves in Game 3.
The Haumole Olakau'atu Snub
The decision to drop Haumole Olakau'atu from the starting side has raised eyebrows. Olakau'atu, in the best form of his career, was replaced by Dylan Lucas, a move that has left many questioning the rationale behind it. Former assistant coach Michael Ennis believes Olakau'atu is the most damaging back rower in the competition, and his absence could be a significant loss for the Blues.
Mark Nawaqanitawase's Origin Debut
On the other hand, Mark Nawaqanitawase, a former rugby union star, is set to make his Origin debut for the Blues. Nawaqanitawase's athletic ability and finishing skills have been on display in the NRL, and he could be a key player for the Blues, especially if he can contribute with carries out of his own end. However, as Daily Telegraph's Brent Read points out, Nawaqanitawase's "roll the dice" mentality could also lead to costly errors.
The Theory Behind the Blues' Staggering Numbers
The Blues' slow starts aren't just a recent phenomenon; they've been a recurring issue under Daley's tenure. The team has conceded a significant number of points in the first half of recent Origins, and this trend has prompted questions about the coaching staff's approach. Cooper Cronk suggests that the Blues may need to change their pre-game routine and focus more on getting the players' mindset right.
Conclusion
As we head into Game 3, these key issues will undoubtedly shape the outcome of the match. The Blues will be looking to address their slow starts and improve their overall performance, while the Maroons will be hoping to capitalize on their strengths and exploit any weaknesses in the opposition. It's a delicate balance, and the team that can execute their game plan effectively will have a significant advantage. Personally, I think the series is still up for grabs, and I can't wait to see how these talking points play out on the field.
