Most league pundits have had New South Wales twisting in the wind since their 44-24 capitulation in Melbourne. The Blues have won only three deciders contested at Suncorp Stadium in the last 32 years and have lost 15 of 20 Origin matches played there. Laurie Daley has been in a position to wrap up a series nine times now – eight times he’s failed.
But this is Origin, where anything and everything can happen. Pilloried in the media, the Blues are battered but they aren’t broken, with fresh players bringing fresh hope. Queensland, unable to claim underdog status, have practised calm before the storm. In a city angry at their imploding Broncos, the stage is set for a Suncorp barnburner.
