LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
In an electrifying display of dominance, the NSW Blues unleashed a record-breaking first-half frenzy that paved the way for a commanding 38-18 victory over the Maroons in Origin Two at the iconic MCG on Wednesday night.
The Blues, inspired by their ruthless performance at the MCG, now set their sights on Suncorp Stadium in three weeks' time, aiming to channel the spirit of past glory years like 1994, 2005, and 2019 - when they fought back from a 1-0 deficit to claim the series.
The tone was set early as Stephen Crichton made a powerful surge into enemy territory, only for a misplaced pass to squander the scoring opportunity.
The Maroons retaliated swiftly, with Jaydn Su'A bursting through the defensive line, only to be met head-on by Blues newcomer Dylan Edwards with a resolute tackle.
Capitalizing on a penalty against Lindsay Collins and a series of six-agains, the Blues applied relentless pressure, culminating in halfback Mitch Moses orchestrating a slick play that sent Liam Martin crashing through the gap between Tom Dearden and Su'A for the opening try in the 11th minute.
The stage is now set for a gripping decider at Suncorp Stadium, where the Blues will look to harness their momentum and write their own chapter in the storied history of State of Origin clashes.