In a surprising turn of events, Queensland coach Billy Slater chose not to deploy his ace during Game II at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.
Here are five quick highlights from the match.
The Maroons kicked off to a promising start, scoring an early penalty goal, but this momentum quickly dissipated due to an uncharacteristic mistake by Queensland prop Tom Flegler.
After the kick-off, Cameron Munster safely received the ball and passed it to a speeding Flegler, who awkwardly fumbled it, sending the ball directly to Mark Nawaqanitawase.
With several passing possibilities available, the Blues debutant opted for Kotoni Staggs, who skillfully grounded the ball past the scrambling Queensland defenders.
In a further twist, Flegler was the first player to be substituted, barely 15 minutes into the match.
The local fans were treated to a brilliant combination play between two Melbourne stars-Cameron Munster and Trent Loiero-resulting in the Maroons' first try.
However, Munster appeared to be struggling after a hard tackle by Hudson Young.
Just as the Blues were set to kick off, referee Ashley Klein signaled for Munster to undergo a head injury assessment.
Despite his protests, he was escorted off for a concussion evaluation, which, remarkably, he passed even though he appeared quite disoriented.