LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
In Game 1 of the 2025 State of Origin series, the New South Wales Blues triumphed, and prop forward Payne Haas was named man of the match.
Despite Zac Lomax's standout performance, which included two tries and a significant contribution to a third, Haas was recognized for his pivotal role in the game.
While Lomax and fellow halves Mitchell Moses and Nathan Cleary also excelled, it was Haas's efforts in the middle third that set the tone for the Blues' dominance.
Haas had an impressive game, recording 154 metres from 18 carries, making five tackle busts, and completing three offloads while delivering a solid defensive performance with 30 tackles, all without a miss.
His contribution was crucial in the forward pack's overall success, which saw Mitchell Barnett, Angus Crichton, Isaah Yeo, and Max King also surpassing 100 metres.