State Of Origin Game III
New South Wales has reclaimed the State of Origin shield in a crushing 30-12 defeat of Queensland at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane.
A strong performance by Laurie Daley’s Blues squad saw the Maroons outplayed and overpowered as NSW dominated the field throughout the match.
It is the second time in the past three years that NSW have won an Origin decider at Suncorp, leading some to question Billy Slater’s position as Queensland coach.
The future of the Bunker is also under scrutiny after a try was erroneously awarded to NSW by the video referee.
An attacking cross field kick was contested by Maroons and Blues wingers Jojo Fifita and Jack Bostock. Footage shows the ball grazed Bostock’s hand before hitting the field in potential a knock on.
Bradman Best grabbed the ball and ran 90 metres to score, giving New South Wales a 24-8 lead with 20 minutes left in the game.
However, the Bunker awarded the try to NSW in a decision that has been lampooned by commentators and fans alike.
“I just can’t get over this call by the Bunker,” Cameron Smith said on Channel 9.
“It was a clear touch by Bostock at a crucial time when it’s only a two try game. We just can’t get those wrong. We cannot get them wrong. Not in games like this.”
A spokesperson for the NRL admitted the call was a mistake in a statement.
“After reviewing all available angles, the Bunker did not believe there was sufficient evidence to overturn the on-field decision,” the statement said.
“Upon detailed review after the match, the NRL believes that while it was an extremely tight decision, the ball appeared to be touched.”
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The contentious decision renews calls for the Bunker to be scrapped and a return to the on-field referee having the final call.
The NRL has invested millions in the development and maintenance of the Bunker, which costs $2-3 million a year to run, leading to questions about cost versus value, especially in high-profile games like State of Origin.
Nevertheless, it was unlikely Queensland were going to close the gap against the superior New South Wales regardless of the decisions.
But there is no doubt the Maroons will undergo a brutal post-match debrief and review in the wake of this disappointing loss, with several players rumoured to be facing the axe as well as coach Slater himself.
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