LeagueNews.co | Robbie Hamilton
Westpac NSW Blues forward Stefano Utoikamanu has shared his feelings about the significant impact of social media criticism following the team's defeat in the State of Origin.
The Blues suffered a comprehensive 24-12 loss, with their forward pack outperformed by the Maroons at a packed Accor Stadium.
Utoikamanu has experienced three consecutive losses in Origin matches and faced intense scrutiny after stepping in for Mitch Barnett ahead of Game Two due to injury.
His selection for the decider was contentious, with coach Laurie Daley favoring Utoikamanu over other options like Keaon Koloamatangi and Terrell May.
In light of the loss, questions about Utoikamanu's selection have intensified.
He acknowledged the difficulty of ignoring external criticism, stating, "It's tough." In his performance, he recorded 54 meters from six carries, 28 tackles, and one miss during his 25-minute stint.
However, he was criticized for being out of position, which contributed to the Maroons' second and third tries, leading to suggestions he could have made a difference had he been better positioned.