LeagueNews.co | Robbie Hamilton
Westpac NSW Blues coach Michael Maguire couldn't help but take notice of the standout performance from New Zealand Warriors prop Mitch Barnett over the weekend.
It was a performance that really made Maguire sit up and take notice as he finalises his forward pack for Game Three of the Ampol State of Origin series next week.
Barnett, who has been knocking on the door for Games One and Two, really made his mark in the front row by running for an impressive 226 metres in the intense golden-point showdown against the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs on Saturday.
Despite the Warriors falling short with a narrow 13-12 loss thanks to a Matt Burton field goal, Barnett's efforts did not go unnoticed.
The upcoming game will see Barnett and Burton, the True Blue, join forces as both have been named in Maguire's extended bench for the crucial Origin decider at Brisbane's iconic Suncorp Stadium.
In addition to his impressive running metres, Barnett also showcased his skills with a linebreak, a try assist, five tackle busts, five offloads, and a whopping 56 tackles against the Bulldogs.
It's safe to say that Barnett's performance has really put him in the spotlight and given Maguire something to think about when it comes to finalising his squad.