Who's Playing Who?

Origin Game II for 2011 is in the books. New South Wales grab a victory 18-8 that levels the series and sends it to a decider in a few weeks time. Read on to see what Adrian thought of this evening’s proceedings.

Isn’t it interesting that when the penalty count is fairly even, that the game is as well? Penalties are crucial in the modern game, and NSW were able to assert themselves in this match by getting the rub of the green. Also, it must be said that the handling, especially in the first half, was exceptional- ANZ Stadium is notoriously dewy during the winter, and the weather in Sydney over the past few days has been atrocious. The pitch was top notch as well- all-in-all, it made for an exciting match and an excellent advertisement for the game.

Uate- he is a beast. Some really nice running from dummy half early in the tackle count took pressure off the forwards, and he was a slippery customer out on the wing. I’d have him in my side every day of the week.

The use of the bench was interesting, but it paid off. Merrin was introduced quite early, on for Mannah. Gidley and Lewis followed soon after, as did Watmough. Queensland seemed to tire quite quickly, and Corey Parker was bought into the action very early on and played a bigger role than he did in Game I. I think he should be there, but the front row isn’t his go.

“57^th minute- Cronk on for Parker. Turning point?” I put this in my notes as a potential time where the game could change. Cronk was yet to get on the field and could have been the spark that Queensland needed. He seemed to have little impact, and the backline never really fired. It was unusual. Their only try came from a short burst out of dummy half from Cam Smith, and the centres didn’t get too much early ball. Possibly something to address for Game III.

Paul Gallen is a man possessed. You can see how he loves being captain and rises to the occasion. A thousand hit ups, and a million tackles. Around the 62^nd minute he made two consecutive tackles from marker. Summed his night up. Looks like he’s found his spot at Origin level, allowing close mate Greg Bird to play at Lock. It’s a shame there isn’t an Origin Dream Team… I can’t wait to see Gallen’s final numbers- the score would be massive!

GI- MIA. Had very little influence on the majority of the game. Seems injury plagued, which is bad news for both Queensland and South Sydney. Needs time out to get himself right. Shouldn’t have played, in my opinion.

Luke Lewis was a fantastic inclusion, and his tackle on Cronk was legendary. He nearly took out a few of his team mates in the process, but it was well worth it!

The inclusion of Will Hopoate raised a few eyebrows when the team was announced. He silenced his critics, and scored a ridiculous try. He’ll no doubt be there again in Game III.

‘Third Man In’ Thaiday tried to kill Watmough. Thank goodness the NSW forward is a unit. Ennis won’t have a bar of it.

Minichiello grabbed the last try. Fantastic story- a star player plagued by injury returns to Origin and seals the victory for his side. You can’t script that stuff… Or can you…? I managed to pick it as well, so I’m disappointed that I didn’t put any cash on that.

Very good game. It seems that all NSW supporters were overjoyed, and rightfully so! I’m eagerly anticipating Game III. Talk about big… Lockyer in his last game, at Suncorp Stadium… NSW, surely they couldn’t lose six straight series?

Those are just some miscellaneous thoughts on Origin II- what did you think of the game? I’d be interested to see whether you agree/disagree with me. Drop me a comment below, find us on Twitter- @whosplayingwho or Facebook.