LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
As the State of Origin decider approaches, NSW Blues coach Laurie Daley receives motivation from players like Isaah Yeo, who expressed the team's desire to win the series for him.
Yeo stated, "Winning a series for Laurie Daley is part of NSW's State of Origin motivation," highlighting the commitment to end Daley's long wait for success.
Despite facing challenges, such as Payne Haas starting the game with a bulging disc, which prevented him from training recently, the team remains resilient.
Nathan Cleary appears ready to kick during general play, though Zac Lomax will handle goal shots due to Cleary's groin issue.
The upcoming match coincides with the 11-year anniversary of Paul Gallen lifting the Origin shield in 2014, marking Daley's only victory during his previous five-year tenure.
He faced disappointment in past deciders in 2013, 2015, and 2017 while Queensland dominated.
After his dismissal in 2017, Daley wasn't sure of returning to coaching, but "a fire to take back the job reignited," leading to his reassumption of the role this year.
He emphasized that the decider isn't about him, showing hesitance to discuss personal changes since his earlier tenure.