As much as the NRL and the Blues will tell you over the next three weeks, the result of Origin 3 does not matter. The series is over, QLD have won the shield.
Bragging rights of a clean sweep are on the line, but that’s about it. History records the result but people only really care about the series winner.
Despite the loss on Wednesday night, NSW have now been presented a chance to make some very smart decisions with the future in mind.
Incredibly, yet unsurprisingly, Laurie Daley has already come out to back his players for Origin 3, saying that they were “getting closer”. It’s highly likely that Daley will stick by the team that was beaten twice in succession by a superior QLD side, but surely someone has to get in his ear and push for common sense.
The 2016 series is over. Even if the Blues win 80-0 it will not change the destination of the shield. Anyone who believes game three means more than a one off night of fun for those in attendance, has bought into the hype.
Daley, if he hopes to have any future in the role of NSW coach, needs to look toward just that, the future.
As brilliant as Paul Gallen, Robbie Farah, Greg Bird and co. have been during their time for the blues, with Gallen especially establishing himself as a Blues legend despite the lop sided nature of the series count, their time is up.
Matt Moylan, despite not making any screaming errors on Wednesday night, was barely sighted in attack.
Dylan Walker’s selection still has me stumped despite his best efforts. Meanwhile Michael Jennings has probably played his last Origin game.
Unfortunately whilst typing this, 100 other pundits have come out and echoed similar sentiments, but I’m going to say it again.
NSW needs to move forward and look to the future.
Personally, I'd love to see Gallen lead the side out one last time given his efforts for the side. He deserves a send off, but goes against everything other thought I have re looking to the future.
James Tedesco, if fit, NEEDS to be selected. I am at a loss as to how he was overlooked for Origin two. He was, by all reports, the first selection, and only injury saw him miss out on Origin One.
So Moylan, the reported second choice, became the incumbent, and managed to hold his spot for Origin two, despite Tedesco’s superior form.
Jack Bird and Tyson Frizell were standouts for the blues on Wednesday night. They both have HUGE futures in the light blue jersey. Bird deserves a starting spot, likely in the centres, however given his ability to play almost anywhere, he is the perfect bench utility.
Frizell was outstanding in both attack and defence. His chase on Dane Gagai was potentially career defining. His positioning to follow Adam Reynolds to the line to score on debut almost turned the game.
Wade Graham is an automatic selection despite Daley’s laughable comments that he may not find his way back into the side.
Graham was selected, missed out via a ridiculous suspension and should walk back into the side in place of Greg Bird.
Although if Tedesco wasn’t selected after his return to footy, I don’t know what hope other players outside the current team that just lost the series have.
Blake Ferguson’s place needs to come under review. Apart from dropping a routine high ball, which lead to a try, I can’t remember him playing any sort of role in Origin two.
Mansour was solid and deserves another shot. He was probably the standout across the back five for the Blues, which considering his lack of space or try scoring, is a worry.
Adam Reynolds will miss Origin three meaning the Blues need a halfback. If Daley goes back to Mitchell Pearce considering his season to date, well honestly I don’t know what to tell you.
Hodkinson is having a nightmare of a season, while Josh Reynolds has been hot and cold.
Here’s an idea that’s a little out there. How about the in-form halfback who has lead the side who is currently sitting atop the NRL table?
Chad Townsend has formed a successful combo with James Maloney, one of NSW’s only attacking threats, and makes a lot of sense. Common sense says Townsend walks into the side, which means he’ll be overlooked for an out of form back rower.
NSW’s pack was again unable to turn the side once the Maroons got on top. Aaron Woods and Andrew Fifita both had moments of brilliance, Klemmer was again very strong, but NSW need a game breaker.
How about Ryan James, who has been tearing opposition forward packs apart for fun for the Titans?
BJ Leilua has been the form centre for the past month and should have been selected over Walker. He deserves his chance.
On the wing, replacing Ferguson, should be young Tommy Turbo. He has been THE shining light in an otherwise poor Manly side.
As for Farah, all reports indicate he’s headed to England next season, which clears the way for Nathan Peats.
Despite injury, Peats has had a solid season despite some incredible distractions. He has become the Titans number one No.9, and should debut in Origin three.
The other who needs to debut, and should have played Origin 2, is Bryce Cartwright. NSW’s back row lacked creativity. The young Panther may miss some tackles but he’s going to break plenty and create chances to score points.
For those playing at home, points are important when trying to win games.
Seeing as how every man and their dog is naming their Origin 3 side, here is mine: