LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
Billy Slater, in his fourth year as Maroons coach, reflects on last year's series defeat as a valuable life experience rather than a lesson.
As reported by nrl.com.au, the Maroons bounced back in 2023, clinching the series early with a tough win in Adelaide followed by a decisive victory in Game Two at Suncorp Stadium.
After facing criticism for selection decisions and struggling against the Blues' aggression under coach Michael Maguire, the Maroons are coming into this year's series eager to prove themselves.
On the first day of camp, Slater announced the Game One squad, including debutant Robert Toia, and praised the opposition while expressing confidence that his players' best performance would yield positive results.
Slater took over from Paul Green at the end of 2021, and in his inaugural series, the Maroons triumphed in the opening game in Sydney, bolstered by standout performances from debutants Patrick Carrigan, Reuben Cotter, Jeremiah Nanai, and Selwyn Cobbo.