LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
Zac Lomax has effectively silenced critics who suggested that Latrell Mitchell should have taken over goal-kicking duties for the NSW Blues during State of Origin.
Following a brilliant performance in Parramatta's 36-20 victory against the Gold Coast Titans, where Lomax successfully converted six goals, he demonstrated his capability after a disappointing goalkicking outing in Origin Game 2, where he only converted two of five attempts.
In the absence of superstar halves Mitchell Moses and Dylan Brown, the Eels showcased resilience, with breakout fullback Isaiah Iongi contributing significantly to their win by assisting three tries.
Lomax's performance was critical in responding to the backlash he faced after Origin, where many questioned why he was chosen as the kicker when Nathan Cleary pulled out due to a groin issue.
Before the game, critics pointed to season statistics, suggesting Mitchell or Bulldogs captain Stephen Crichton would have been better options for goal-kicking.
Until that point, Lomax had a 78% success rate (18 from 23), positioning him fourth among his teammates.
In contrast, Cleary boasted a 91% success rate, with Mitchell at 85% and Crichton at 84%.
Lomax not only proved his critics wrong with his precise kicking but also demonstrated his endurance by running an impressive 211 meters from 25 carries, indicating he was unaffected by the earlier loss in Perth.
His performance cements the idea that while he may have stumbled in the past, he is more than capable of rising to the occasion.