LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
Nathan Cleary has acknowledged that his critics were justified in questioning his ability to lead NSW to a State of Origin series triumph, as he falls short in yet another decider.
This loss against Queensland, which ended 24-12 at Accor Stadium in Sydney, marked a disappointing chapter in Cleary's career, further complicating an already challenging season for the Penrith Panthers superstar.
The defeat came after NSW lost Game 1 but had the chance to redeem themselves in the third game.
In this pivotal match, Cleary struggled to rally the team, facing immense pressure while his rival, Tom Dearden, excelled with a man-of-the-match performance.
Cleary's 17th game as NSW halfback not only put him ahead of league legends Andrew Johns and Mitchell Pearce but also cemented a losing record at 8-9 in State of Origin matches, compounded by five losses in his last seven games.
Despite successfully guiding NSW to series victories in 2018 and 2021, both of these came in two-match series, and he has now lost both Game 3 deciders he's participated in.
Reflecting on the defeat during a post-match interview, a visibly upset Cleary stated, "At the end of the day, I haven't (delivered).
I'm the harshest marker of myself anyway so I don't really think that what other people say is out of line because I probably think that of myself anyway." He further elaborated on the emotional toll of the loss, saying, "At the end of the day, you just feel like you've let down the boys that you play with and the state obviously.
That's what hurts the most.
I let down myself and my own high standards.
It's frustrating."
In addition to Cleary's admission, league greats Andrew Johns and Phil Gould have scrutinized Laurie Daley and the game strategy employed in the match.
The outcome has raised questions regarding the team's game plan and its effectiveness under pressure, highlighting the need for reflection and potential adjustments moving forward.
The defeat not only deepens Cleary's personal frustrations but also poses challenges for the NSW team as they seek to regroup and reassess their approach for future series.