Following a disastrous series opener at home, New South Wales are staring down the barrel of a third straight State of Origin series defeat.

But can the rejigged Blues at least force a Brisbane decider with a victory in game two at the MCG? The rivals can’t be split in the head-to-head Origin betting market a week out from the Melbourne showdown.

It’s hard for either side to put too much stock in Queensland’s 38-10 victory in game one in Sydney two weeks ago, with Joseph Sua’ali’i’s eighth-minute send-off turning the match on its head before it had a chance to get going.

But the writing was already on the wall for the Blues, who allowed Daly Cherry-Evans to lay on a try down their left edge with alarming ease before Sua’ali’i ironed out Reece Walsh.

NSW hit back but the visitors shot out to 20-6 before the 25-minute mark as a 12-man defence struggled to contain Queensland’s dangermen.

On the other hand, the Blues showed tremendous resolve to hold the Maroons scoreless for the next 40 minutes and stay in the fight at 20-10, before understandably fading down the stretch.

While playing a man short undoubtedly made every facet of the match more difficult, NSW lacked impetus from the halves, spark from dummy-half and authority up front.

Zac Lomax enjoyed an excellent debut, Spencer Leniu provided punch from an otherwise lacklustre bench, Liam Martin played like a man possessed and Angus Crichton led the pack with 22 runs for 168 metres.

For Queensland, old-stagers Cherry-Evans and Hunt were sensational, Pat Carrigan and Lindsay Collins laid the platform, and a powerful collective three-quarter line performance was complemented by Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow’s hat-trick after shifting to fullback.

The Maroons will be more dangerous again with Walsh’s ball-playing, game-breaking class at the back. The champs’ only changes see veterans Kurt Capewell and Felise Kaufusi recalled for injured duo Selwyn Cobbo and J’Maine Hopgood. Another backline injury aside, they don’t lose much there.

Late game one withdrawal Dylan Edwards comes in to debut at James Tedesco’s expense, a change that has been largely overshadowed by the recall of Latrell Mitchell at centre for the suspended Sua’ali’i and Mitch Moses at halfback for Nicho Hynes.

Cameron McInnes and Hudson Young make way for Cameron Murray and debutant utility Connor Watson.

NSW boast a 4-1 record at the MCG, including somewhat recent victories in game two of the 2015 series (26-18) and the 2018 series opener (22-12). Four neutral-venue Origins the latter were shared two-all: the Blues won twice in Perth and the Maroons took out two Adelaide-hosted encounters.

Queensland won all three matches staged at the Docklands stadium in Melbourne (2006, 2009 and 2012).

NSW has levelled the series six of the last eight times after losing game one – including three times at a neutral venue in the past nine series.

Moses’ kicking game shapes as a key boost for the Blues, while Mitchell has been consistently dominant at centre in eighth Origin appearances from 2018-21, scoring six tries and setting up a swag more.

Murray is a big in, too, but there’s still a sense Michael Maguire hasn’t quite got the balance right for the desperation this do-or-die encounter demands.

The vastly more settled Queensland line-up matches up well with NSW right across the park, while they appear to hold a sizeable edge in the halves and via their proven dummy-half rotation. For the second straight year, the Maroons should wrap up the series with a game to spare.

Tip: Back Queensland to Win @ $1.90

First Try Scorer: Jeremiah Nanai (QLD) @ $19

Man of the Match: Reece Walsh (QLD) @ $7.00

SAME GAME MULTI: QUEENSLAND BY 1-12 POINTS / OVER 37.5 TOTAL POINTS / HAMISO TABUAI-FIDOW ANYTIME TRYSCORER / REECE WALSH ANYTIME TRYSCORER / DYLAN EDWARDS ANYTIME TRYSCORER @ $69.88

2023

After yet another extraordinary, character-filled Queensland upset in the State of Origin series opener, New South Wales head up to Suncorp Stadium for game two in the rare position of being rank underdogs.

The Blues’ bid to force a decider has been rocked by injuries to their first-choice halfback and hooker, while they will attempt to force a decider with two more debutants on deck – after jettisoning two of their first-gamers from the Adelaide clash.

It hasn’t been totally smooth sailing for the Maroons as they aim to wrap up the Origin shield defence with a game to spare, however, with three of their game one heroes rubbed out by injury.

The series opener was an Origin for the ages. Queensland raced out to a 10-0 lead in 10 minutes but NSW clawed to the front soon after halftime. The lead changed hands twice more and the Blues were in the box-seat at 18-16 with Maroons forward Tom Flegler sent to the bin in the 68th minute.

But as only Queensland can, the defending champs conjured two brilliant tries while a man short to roll over the top of NSW 26-18.

The Blues had 53 percent possession, largely dominated territory, chewed off 300 more running metres, and made less missed tackles and gave away less penalties. But disjointed, impatient attack brought them undone time and again, while Brad Fittler’s bench use came under fire.

Most glaringly, though, they just didn’t seem to want it as much as the Maroons.

Nathan Cleary succumbed to a hamstring injury four days later and Api Koroisau suffered a fractured jaw last weekend. Damien Cook was an obvious No.9 replacement, but Mitchell Moses’ recall at halfback (he debuted in the 2021 dead-rubber loss) was more contentious.

Nicho Hynes was dumped altogether after an unfortunate interchange debut, as was enigmatic prop Tevita Pangai Jr. Cowboys hooker Reece Robson and Tigers front-rower Stefano Utoikamanu will debut off the bench in game two. Junior Paulo starts this time around in an astute switch.

Withdrawing from game one after being selected, strike weapon Latrell Mitchell comes back in at centre for Stephen Crichton – but he hasn’t played since May 19 and will be a late starter in Blues training this week.

Queensland trio Selwyn Cobbo – who bagged a double in Adelaide – Tom Gilbert and Jai Arrow were ruled out of the return clash. But the straight swaps for Origin-experienced Xavier Coates, Jeremiah Nanai and Moeaki Fotuaika means the difference is negligible and far less risky.

In game one, man-of-the-match Reuben Cotter typified the Maroons forwards’ relentless effort, while Daly Cherry-Evans kept his side cool through the rough spots, Cameron Munster came up trumps in the clutch and Reece Walsh had a flawless debut at the back.

For NSW, whopping (for Origin) $2.40 outsiders, the solutions seem simple: start better, build pressure, sort out their edge defence, take more of their scoring opportunities. But it’s easier said than done in the Suncorp Stadium cauldron.

Moses and game one standout Jarome Luai need to get Mitchell and Tom Trbojevic into the game, while James Tedesco would best serve the Blues by not overplaying his hand as he did in Adelaide.

Queensland have won 38 Origins at Suncorp Stadium to NSW’s 20 with one drawn. The Maroons have also won five of the last six matches staged at their fortress and 13 of the last 16. The Blues wrapped up the 2021 series there with a 26-0 game two shutout.

Meanwhile, NSW have gone to Brisbane one-nil down on four occasions and levelled the series just once, in 1998. Queensland have squared Origin series in enemy territory after losing the opener just twice – in 1987 and 2017 – from nine attempts.

Suncorp Stadium Origins have proved reliably low-scorers in recent years, with the last seven Brisbane clashes producing no more than 34 points – hence the skinny 37.5 total points line.

Not since the days of Smith, Thurston, Cronk, Inglis, Slater and Lockyer have Queensland seemed this unbeatable heading into an Origin match. Keeping a lid on any complacency may be Billy Slater’s biggest task in the lead-up…but this one shapes as an early victory lap for the Maroons.

Tip: Back Queensland to Cover the Line (-4.5 Points) @ $1.90

First Try Scorer: Valentine Holmes @ $14

Man of the Match: Reece Walsh @ $6.50

SAME GAME MULTI: QUEENSLAND BY 1-12 / UNDER 37.5 TOTAL POINTS / TOM TRBOJEVIC ANYTIME TRY SCORER / JEREMIAH NANAI ANYTIME TRY SCORER @ $69.17

2022

New South Wales are still regrouping from a disappointing 16-10 loss as 3.5-point favourites in the Sydney-hosted State of Origin series opener – and the Blues head to Perth for Sunday’s do-or-die assignment with a vastly reshaped line-up.

Rarely in recent Origin history has either team shaken things up selection-wise to this extent following a relatively close defeat.

On top of losing centre Jack Wighton – their best player in Game 1 – to COVID, Brad Fittler has axed centre Kotoni Staggs, fellow debutant Ryan Matterson and veteran forwards Tariq Sims and Reagan Campebell-Gillard.

Stephen Crichton (who came off the bench in game one) and uncapped Matt Burton form an all-new centre duo, while contentious Sydney omissions Jake Trbojevic and Angus Crichton have been recalled.

Penrith hooker Apisai Koroisau has bumped Damien Cook to the bench – perhaps in a bid to replicate the Ben Hunt-Harry Grant dummy-half rotation the Maroons had so much success with in the series opener.

Siosifa Talakai has been introduced to the interchange and offers considerable versatility and game-breaking ability.

Fittler has gone chips in on the Panthers factor.

With Koroisau, Stephen Crichton and now-Bulldogs five-eighth Burton named, NSW will field a staggering eight members of the club’s 2021 grand final side in the starting line-up.

Queensland ideally would have taken an unchanged 17 into game two, but injury has claimed winger Xavier Coates and forward tearaway Reuben Cotter, who was magnificent on debut.

Murray Taulagi comes onto the flank for his first Origin – outside Cowboys clubmate Valentine Holmes – while Jai Arrow gets a recall to the bench.

The Maroons were more dominant in Sydney than the final score indicated, with the Blues roaring back late after being outmuscled, out-enthused and outplayed late in the first half and most of the second stanza.

Queensland may not have got home without Cameron Munster’s genius, but NSW will be expecting far more authority and invention from Nathan Cleary, in particular, and Jarome Luai.

Virtually every major stat category finished close enough to even in game one, but a clear difference was the Maroons’ ability to roll through the middle with Patrick Carrigan, Lindsay Collins, Tino Fa’asuamaleaui and Cotter racking up 130-plus metres.

Only Payne Haas and Isaah Yeo managed the same in the Blues’ pack.

The guile and experience of Holmes and Dane Gagai in the centres was also vital – and shapes as an advantage again up against a rookie pair in Perth.

In 40 completed Origin series to date, the team which lost the first game has bounced back to force a decider with a game two victory on 21 occasions.

Encouragingly for the Blues, they have won the second clash five of the last six times after dropping the series opener.

The neutral venue factor may provide NSW with some confidence of a series-levelling result, too, squaring up with game two wins at the MCG in 2015 (26-18) and in the only previous Origin held in Perth in 2019 (38-6), while nine of the last 13 Game 2 encounters have featured margins of 10-plus.

Meanwhile, Queensland has been held to 20 points or less for 13 consecutive Origins – they’ll again be relying on a supreme defensive display to clinch the shield with a game to spare.

The dialled back atmosphere in Perth may ease the white-hot pressure on the Blues and allow them to rectify the mistakes and clunky, panicked attack that characterised their game one showing.

But the Maroons look locked in under Billy Slater’s tutelage and shape as better value despite having the luxury of a home decider as a fallback.

Tip: Back Queensland to Cover the Line (+2 Points) @ $2.00

First Try Scorer: Dane Gagai @ $16

Man of the Match: Patrick Carrigan @ $34

SAME GAME MULTI: EITHER TEAM BY LESS THAN 10.5 POINTS / UNDER 38.5 POINTS / JAMES TEDESCO ANYTIME TRY SCORER / JEREMIAH NANAI ANYTIME TRY SCORER @ $163.69

2021 State of Origin Game 2

There is something a little more special about a Sunday night State of Origin as the Maroons and the Blues take to Suncorp Stadium for a decisive Game 2.

Spirits are a little low in Queensland right now following a demoralising Game 1 loss, but if we learned anything about this Maroons side last year, it’s that you can never write them off as an underdog.

The Blues, meanwhile, will be looking to pick up right where they left off with Latrell Mitchell and Tom Trbojevic leading the charge towards a potential series-clinching victory on Queensland soil.

Not surprisingly, the market heavily favours another New South Wales blowout, but we’re confident we’ve found plenty of value in our State of Origin Game 2 Preview right here!

State of Origin Game 2 Teams

Head to Head & Line Betting

The Blues opened as -4.5 favourites ahead of Game 1 in Townsville, but after demolishing the Maroons 50-6 in a record-breaking victory, it’s no real surprise to find the line all the way out to -13.5 heading into Sunday’s decisive Game 2.

New South Wales hardly put a foot wrong in the opener as they ran riot over the Queensland defence from start to finish.

Paul Green’s side found no answer for Tom Trobjevic on either side of the field, while the Maroons were also their own worst enemy missing over 50 tackles on the night.

The Blues were basically flawless in the opener, but it’s fair to say NSW could have put up even more points if they kept the errors to a minimum.

As scary as it sounds, Brad Fittler’s superstar squad is only going to get better with experience – a worrying sign for the Queenslanders with the Blues basically heading into Game 2 unchanged.

The only real move of significance is Daniel Saifiti replacing Jake Trobjevic at prop, while the Maroons have chosen to mix things up with Reece Walsh at fullback,

The 18-year-old Warriors player will be the youngest Origin debutant since Ben Ikin in 1995.

Josh Papali’i has also been named in the Queensland forward line, a welcome addition after Trbojevic and Latrell Mitchell combined for five tries in Game 1.

As far as betting on Game 2 goes though, it’s nearly impossible to get away from the Blues at the line.

Backing the heavy favourites to cover has proven very profitable throughout the course of the NRL season, and after the Queensland defence failed to shut down the chemistry between Turbo and Mitchell in the backline, it’s hard to see this one not getting out of hand in a hurry.

The fact the Maroons haven’t lost at Suncorp since 2017 is obviously worth factoring in, but this still looks like an enormous task for Queensland in front of their home fans.

If the Maroons fail to stick their tackles and the Blues start white-hot like they did a fortnight ago, this could be another very long night for Queenslanders.

Tip: Back the Blues to Cover the Line (-13.5 Points) @ $2.00

First Try Scorer

Tom Trbjoevic was a fill-up for punters in Game 1 as a $13.00 chance, and although the odds have firmed significantly, you’d be mad not to take the $9.00 on offer after he basically had everything his own way last time out.

Josh Addo-Carr also stands out this week after a fairly quiet game (at least by his usual standards) in the opener.

Melbourne’s star winger ran for only 100m in Game 1, but with the Queensland defence likely locked in on the left side, it wouldn’t be surprising if the Foxx enjoys his share of the spoils – much like he did in Game 2 last year when he scored a double.

It’s hard to get overly excited about the Queenslanders, but Valentine Holmes is probably worth including.

He looked dangerous at times in Game 1 on kick returns and should also play a much bigger role this week shifting back to the wing from fullback.

Tip: Josh Addo-Carr @ $8.00, Tom Trbojevic @ $9.00, Valentine Holmes @ $14.00

Total Points

Interesting to find the Total set at only 45.5 after the Blues accounted for that number themselves in Game 1.

That said, recent history suggests we could be in for a low-scoring Game 2 when you consider the last Origin game at Suncorp to result in 40 points or more occurred way back in 2016.

The Blues look a good bet to win this comfortably, but with some rain also forecast in Brisbane for Friday and Saturday, the under looks the way to go.

Tip: Under 45.5 Total Points @ $1.90

Man of the Match

There’s no shortage of value in the Man of the Match market with James Tedesco ($6.00), Nathan Cleary ($6.00), and Game 1 winner Tom Trbojevic ($9.00) all leading the market at single figures.

Further down, there’s a lot to like about Latrell Mitchell at $15.00 after he ran for over 150m, scored twice, and also set up two tries in the opener.

As for the Queenslanders, Dane Gagai looks like a nice choice after his heroics at Suncorp in Game 3 last year.

His Game 1 performance left a lot to be desired, but if the Maroons are to pull off the unthinkable on Sunday, they could do with a veteran like Gagai stepping up to the plate.

NSW to Cover the Line (-13.5), Latrell Mitchell Anytime Try Scorer, Tom Trbojevic Anytime Try Scorer, Under 45.5 Total Points @ $26.11

2020

The Maroons not only broke the hearts of the Blues on Wednesday night in Adelaide, they also sent the entire country a firm reminder: never underestimate the great Wayne Bennett.

Queensland’s second-half fight back was the stuff of legends as they pulled off yet another memorable State of Origin upset to really put some spice back into the series.

Still, the Canetoads remain firm underdogs heading into Game 2 in Sydney on Wednesday as they attempt to bring the shield back home to Queensland for the first time since 2017.

Was Game 1 the wakeup the Blues needed? Or will the Maroons pull off the impossible?

Be sure to find out who we’re backing in our 2020 State of Origin Game 2 Preview below!

2020 State of Origin Game 2 Teams

Head to Head & Line Betting

The Blues were laying -8 heading into Game 1, and at first glance, it’s a little surprising to find them at -8.5 following Wednesday’s meltdown.

Obviously the bookies are factoring in the ANZ advantage here, something that has helped New South Wales immensely over the past few years.

The Blues haven’t lost in Sydney since 2017, while this was also the site of their series clinching win in Game 3 last year.

That said, obviously New South Wales will need more than just the crowd to help them over the line in Game 2.

With an injury cloud hanging over Wayne Bennett’s side entering the series, suddenly the shoe has shifted to the other foot with a handful of Blues players exiting Game 1 with various ailments.

Cameron Murray was one of the first victims, followed by Jack Wighton, who exited the game late with what looked to be a lower leg injury.

Wighton’s absence creates some uncertainty through the centres, while there’s equal concern for Boyd Cordner, who picked up yet another head knock.

On the Queensland side, there’s equal concern for the likes of Kurt Capewell and Christian Welch, but the good news is Valentine Holmes looks set to play after serving his suspension.

With such a short turnaround, both Bennett and Brad Fittler will be forced to get creative this week before announcing their final teams.

After a very disappointing performance in the halves, Fittler has a big decision to make in regards to Nathan Cleary and Luke Keary. Bennett, meanwhile, has the luxury of maybe naming Corey Allan to the team for his first Origin appearance.

As far as the winner goes, there’s a very good chance Game 1’s result was the kick up the backside the Blues needed.

Obviously New South Wales completely underestimated this young upstart Maroons team as Queensland played with a real sense of pride and spirit that was missing last year.

Given the likely ins and outs, this game should be close.

When you consider the Maroons haven’t lost to the Blues in Sydney by any more than four points over the last six years, this +8.5 line looks ridiculously generous.

Tip: Back Queensland to Cover the Line (+8.5 Points) @ $1.90

First Try Scorer

It might feel as though Daniel Tupou had a quiet night in the opener, but one look at the stat sheet suggests otherwise.

The star winger finished with 120 post contact metres and also six tackles breaks, and given this is his home stadium, there’s a very strong chance he cracks Queensland’s questionable defence out wide to score first.

Damien Cook saluting at 30-1 was an absolute fill-up in Game 1 as punters now search for another roughie.

Daly Cherry-Evans has scored only once in Origin, but he could be your best bet if you’re looking for a surprise contender.

He showed some real burst on a couple of occasions through the middle last Wednesday and might just peel off a couple more with New South Wales left scrambling through the halves.

Last but not least, don’t forget Ryan Papenhuyzen.

His injury status is unclear at time of publish, but based on his efforts in the Grand Final (and all season to be frank) you have to include him.

Tip: Daniel Tupou @ $8.50, Daly Cherry-Evans @ $23.00

Total Points

It doesn’t take a genius to work out that the Under is again the safest play.

Last week the Total Points Line sat at 41.5, but based on how many tired and weary players were out on their feet in Game 1, even the reduced 38.5 Total seems high.

These two sides combined for 46 points in Game 3 at ANZ last year, but it’s worth noting every game played previously in Sydney dating back to 2015 resulted in 35 points or less.

Tip: Under 38.5 Total Points @ $1.90

Man of the Match

Josh Addo-Carr continues to make a bold claim for a lavish new contract after scoring a double in Game 1.

The Foxx looked dangerous all game, particularly when New South Wales were threatening to pinch it right in the dying stages with only seconds remaining.

Queensland’s defence bent but didn’t break in the second half, but it’s difficult to tell if that will remain the case in Game 2.

Addo-Carr’s speed is frightening for a Maroons team that looked fragile on the wing, and based on the fact he scored a double in Game 2 last year, you have to like the Foxx to walk away with the top honours.

Tip: Josh Addo-Carr @ $51.00

2019

A sold out Optus Stadium plays host to Origin Game 2 on Sunday night as the Blues hope to square-up the series on neutral turf.

New South Wales were left deflated at Suncorp a fortnight ago and now look to rebound against a Queensland side battered and bruised by injury.

Selections have rattled both sides in the lead up to the match, setting up a wide-open betting market with the bookies having a tough time separating the two.

Fortunately, we’ve put our thinking caps on and have (hopefully) tipped some winners in our complete 2019 State of Origin Game 2 Preview below.

Head to Head Betting

It’s even money ahead of Game 2 with both sides priced around the $1.90 mark.

Latrell Mitchell has been dropped from the Blues side following his subpar performance in Game 1, which is clearly a questionable decision from coach Brad Fittler.

Mitchell’s efforts were huge during Game 2 last year, while New South Wales also carry on without Josh Morris and Cody Walker.

Queensland enters Sunday’s game a little shorthanded themselves. Jai Arrow’s injury sees Dylan Napa start at prop, while Joe Ofahengaue’s injury has also forced coach Kevin Walters to bring in forward Jarrod Wallace on the bench.

The key takeaway from Game 1 was Queensland’s resiliency, but also their slow start to the first half. The Maroons found themselves on the backfoot early trailing 6-0 at the break before Dane Gagai saved the day in the second half with a pair of tries.

A win is a win, but Queensland will be hoping for a more well-rounded performance across all 80-minutes on Sunday. There’s no doubt Game 2 will fall into the hands of Gagai, captain Daly Chery-Evans and Cameron Munster from a scoring perspective, but the Maroons will also be hoping for another stellar defensive performance from Game 1’s tackle leader and unsung hero, Ben Hunt.

New South Wales also fell victim to inconsistencies in Game 1, or should we say, their own inability to put points on the board. The Blues had the Maroons by the throat at half time before succumbing to not only Queensland’s pressure but also the Suncorp Stadium crowd.

For the Blues to rebound they simply need to keep their hands on the ball. The game isn’t won on paper, but there’s no doubt Queensland had more of the ball in Game 1, helped out by New South Wales’ sloppy skill errors and penalties.

If we learned anything from the opening game though, it’s that this entire series will be close. This time around there is no home-field advantage, forcing both sides to get creative with a number of key play-makers missing.

Over the last decade, New South Wales has held the advantage in Game 2 winning six of the last ten. The odds reflect how tough this game is to call, and while the onus is entirely on both sides to come up with something new offensively, perhaps the team that wins will be the one that can knuckle down defensively.

The Blues did a lot wrong in the second half of Game 1, but they certainly were the better tackling side. Queensland missed several key tackles in the first half, while Damien Cook was electric on defence for New South Wales.

With all that in mind, back the Blues to level things up.

Tip: Back New South Wales to Win @ $1.90

Total Points Betting

The Total went Over in Game 1, and it appears as though the bookies are trying to tempt you into backing the Overs by setting the exact same Total for Game 2.

Perth Stadium is a complete mystery as it prepares for its Origin debut, but if we’ve learned anything over the last five years it’s that AFL/Cricket grounds typically lend themselves to higher scoring Origin games.

Both games at the MCG in 2015 and 2018 resulted in Over 34-points, but with both sides lacking a handful of stars, this one could be headed Unders. Over the last 10-years, the average Game 2 score is 32.6 points, and with heavy showers forecast for game time, this one should be low-scoring.

Tip: Under 33.5 Total Points @ $1.91

First Try Scorer

Dane Gagai and Corey Oates are the favourites to score the first try for Queensland on Sunday, while Blake Ferguson is the only Blues player listed at single-digit odds.

Both Oates and Josh-Addo Carr have been two of the safest First Try Scorer bets at club level this year, but a sleeper in Game 2 might just be Tom Trbojevic.

In his return to Manly last week following a hamstring injury, Turbo Tom scored a last dash try in garbage time to pad the Sea Eagles’ 20-point win. Trbojevic racked up 333-metres agaisnt the Dragons in just his fourth game of the season, putting to bed any doubts surrounding his fitness ahead of Game 2.

Trbojevic scored in Games 1 and 3 last year for New South Wales, and he’ll certainly be hungry to prove his doubters wrong on Sunday. These odds look massive overs for the Manly superstar to score first.

Tip: Tom Trobjevic First Try Scorer @ $14.00

Man of the Match

Dane Gagai was hands down the Man of the Match in Game 1, but James Tedesco wasn’t disgraced on the stat sheet either. The Roosters fullback was the best Blues player on the field a fortnight ago, and the good news is he returns for Game 2 well-rested after sitting out last week’s drubbing against the Bulldogs.

Tedesco laid down the groundwork in just about every one of New South Wales’ attacking opportunities at Suncorp, leading the way in metres run. His speed will be crucial from the fullback position, and he looks strong odds alongside teammate Damien Cook as the only single-priced Man of the Match favourite.

Tip: Back James Tedesco To Win Man of the Match @ $7.00

State of Origin Game 2 Teams

2018

On the back of a 22-12 loss in Game 1, it’s do-or-die for the Maroons ahead of Game 2.

The Blues can smell their first series win since 2014, and they should feel confident in front of what should be a big crowd on Sunday at ANZ Stadium. New South Wales were dominant two week’s ago, manhandling Queensland in the second half thanks to Latrell Mitchell, Tom Trobjevic and Josh Addo-Carr’s brilliance.

In the leadup to Game 2, the Maroons announced they would refrain from making big changes, but those plans quickly went by the wayside as Queensland selector Darren Lockyer confirmed Billy Slater would be named to play. The news kept coming as Kevin Walters also announced Kalyn Ponga will make his Maroons debut.

The Blues, meanwhile, sent a few shock waves of their own. Surprisingly, prop Matt Prior has been added to the squad to replace Reagan Campbell-Gillard and his broken jaw, while Ryan James and Luke Keary could also make an appearance for the Blues.

Two straight for New South Wales? Or do the Maroons get one back away from home?

As always, all of our 2018 State of Origin Game 2 Tips can be found below!

State of Origin Game 2 Betting

Queensland’s shock loss in Game 1 sees them all the way out to $6.00 to win the series. The Blues are looking tidy at around the $1.20 mark, but things aren’t quite as one-sided ahead of the Game 2 market.

The Blues remain clear favourites, but the number of bets and the weight of money is almost a dead-heat between the two ahead of Sunday night.

With the line currently set at nine points and the Total Match Points line at 33.5, there’s certainly plenty of room for things to swing throughout the week.

State of Origin Game 2 Tips

Head to Head Betting

There’s no doubt the Maroons lacked some spark in Game 1, but the good news is that fire looks ready to reignite given Slater’s possible inclusion.

As it stands, the Blues come in as the clear favourites under the $1.50 mark, while Queensland are all the way out to $3.00 and beyond.

The Maroons will go without Anthony Milford this time out, who makes way for Ponga’s debut. The Knights’ star fullback is in outrageous form, and he gives the Queensland side some much needed speed.

Pegged as the future standout for the Maroons, some might say Ponga’s debut is coming a little prematurely, but Queensland are desperate for a player who can create tries off the fast break.

That spells good news for Queensland, because despite the rather unflattering scoreline in Game 1, there wasn’t much separating these two sides at half time.

Game 2 could wind up closer than we think. but the Blues have every right to feel confident thanks to James Tedesco. The star fullback contributed with 14 tackles, three goals and two try-assists in Game 1, tormenting the Maroons for the better part of 80-minutes, earning Man of the Match.

Like last year, a lot of the battle comes down to the ruck, an area the Blues controlled for the entire first game. Queensland need to find a way to shutdown Addo-Carr and his athleticism, but the Blues also wait anxiously as the health of Latrell Mitchell hangs in the balance.

It’s hard to see the Maroons going down quietly two games in a row, and if Slater plays, his leadership will go a long way to keeping Queensland calm in the bigger moments of the game.

Ponga also provides some much needed excitement, and if the Maroons can get a bit more out of the 31-year old Greg Inglis, there’s no reason Queensland can’t relish in this unfamiliar underdog role.

Back Queensland To Win @ $3.25

First Try Scorer

It took 22-minutes, but James Tedesco crossed the line first for the Blues during Game 1. He comes in as the favourite once again, but not to be outdone is Queensland’s Valentine Holmes, who marched over for the Maroons’ first in the 28th minute.

The majority of the attack will come from both Tedesco and Holmes respectively, but it’s hard not to throw the likes of Josh Addo-Carr into the mix. The Storm’s star winger peeled off two big time tries during Melbourne’s 28-10 victory over the Knights last week, and as well we know, he’s capable of showcasing some of that blistering speed whenever a turnover is up for grabs.

Aside from Holmes, the Maroons would sure like to see Billy Slater on the end of one of Ben Hunt’s grubber kicks. Slater has been itching to play for the last three weeks, and his try scoring history in Origin games goes without saying.

Back Josh Addo-Carr @ $9.00

Man of the Match

It’s tough to imagine James Tedesco not repeating his Man of the Match honours, but if there’s one Queensland player that is capable of dethroning the Blues fullback, it’s Ben Hunt.

The Dragons’ gun helped set up Queensland’s lone try during Game 1, while also contributing with 23 tackles of his own. Funnily enough, Hunt was criticized heavily following the Maroons’ opening loss, but with so much talent, he’s certainly capable of a bounce-back.

Hunt has been the number-one halfback for a reason this year, he just received little help during Game 1. For the most part, the Maroons’ forwards had a horror night, which makes it hard for Hunt to showcase his usual play-making abilities and quick decision making.

A better night from Queensland’s attackers, and it wouldn’t be the least bit surprising to see Hunt set up the game winning try, something which, let’s not forget, he’s done all season long for the Dragons.

Back James Tedesco @ $8.00

State of Origin Teams Game 2 Teams

Queensland

Billy Slater (Melbourne Storm)

Valentine Holmes (Cronulla Sharks)

Greg Inglis (South Sydney Rabbitohs)

Will Chambers (Melbourne Storm)

Dane Gagai (South Sydney Rabbitohs)

Cameron Munster (Melbourne Storm)

Ben Hunt (St. George Dragons)

Dylan Napa (Sydney Roosters)

Andrew McCullough (Brisbane Broncos)

Jarrod Wallace (Gold Coast Titans)

Gavin Cooper (North Queensland Cowboys)

Felise Kaufusi (Melbourne Storm)

Josh McGuire (Brisbane Broncos)

Kalyn Ponga (Newcastle Knights)

Coen Hess (North Queensland Cowboys)

Josh Papalii (Canberra Raiders)

Jai Arrow (Gold Coast Titans)

Tim Glasby (Melbourne Storm)

New South Wales

Josh Addo-Carr (Melbourne Storm)

Nathan Cleary (Penrith Panthers)

Damien Cook (South Sydney Rabbitohs)

Boyd Cordner (Sydney Roosters)

Angus Crichton (South Sydney Rabbitohs)

Jack de Bellin (St. George Dragons)

Tyson Frizell (St. George Dragons)

Ryan James (Gold Coast Titans)

Luke Keary (Sydney Roosters)

David Klemmer (Canterbury Bulldogs)

James Maloney (Penrith Panthers)

Latrell Mitchell (Sydney Roosters)

Tyrone Peachey (Penrith Panthers)

Matt Prior (Cronulla Sharks)

James Roberts (Brisbane Broncos)

Tariq Sims (St George Dragons)

James Tedesco (Sydney Roosters)

Jake Trbojevic (Manly Sea Eagles)

Tom Trbojevic (Manly Sea Eagles)

Paul Vaughan (St. George Dragons)

2017

2017 State Of Origin 2 will be played at ANZ Stadium on Wednesday June 21 and we are set for one of the most intriguing State Of Origin games in recent memory.

New South Wales were nothing short of dominant against Queensland in the opening game of the series and that performance has been called the start of a new era.

Queensland have made wholesale changes to their side and a mix of experience (Johnathan Thurston and Billy Slater) and youth (Coen Hess and Valentine Holmes) have been added to the squad.

Will New South Wales secure the series with another win or will Queensland show that their State Of Origin dynasty isn’t over just yet?

We have closely analysed both teams and our complete 2017 State Of Origin game 2 tips can be found below.

State Of Origin Game 2 Betting

New South Wales remain clear favourites to secure the 2017 State Of Origin Series with a win in Sydney on Wednesday night, but the weight of money has been for Queensland since both sides were released.

The Blues are $1.58 to secure the series, while Queensland have been backed into $2.40 to keep their hopes alive after being as long as $2.55 in the direct aftermath to the opening game of the Series.

The line has currently been set at four points and the Total Match Points line is 32.5 points.

State Of Origin Game 2 Tips

Head To Head Betting

Queensland have not taken their defeat in the opening game of the 2017 State Of Origin Series lying down and they have made plenty of changes to their side.

The big plus for Queensland is the presence of Johnathan Thurston.

Queensland lacked attacking options without Thurston in the team and he showed against the Parramatta Eels last Saturday night that he has not lost any of his ability during his time on the sidelines.

Thurston not only gives Queensland plenty of spark in attack, but he is an excellent organiser in defence and has an excellent connection with the majority of his Queensland teammates.

The presence of Billy Slater and Valentine Holmes also gives Queensland two incredibly dangerous players in broken play and the ability to score from anywhere on the field, which has been a key aspect of their dominance over the past decade.

The changes in the forwards have to be made – Nate Myles, Sam Thaiday and Jacob Lillyman offered very little in Game 1 – and in the form of Coen Hess the Maroons now have a player that they can bring on after 20 minutes to cause some serious damage.

It should come as no surprise that New South Wales will go into this game with an unchanged side and there is no doubt that their game plan will be very similar.

Controlling the game in the middle of the ruck will be key to the success of New South Wales and there isn’t a great deal that the likes of Thurston, Slater and Holmes can do if the New South Wales forward pack is able to dominate once again.

While New South Wales were obviously convincing winners in Game 1, that scoreline was probably a bit harsh on Queensland and I really don’t think that there is as much between these two sides as that performance indicated.

There is nothing more dangerous than a fired up Queensland side and a team that includes Thurston, Slater, Cooper Cronk and Cameron Smith should never be as long as their current quote.

Queensland are genuine value to keep the series alive with a hard-fought win.

Back Queensland To Win @ $2.40

First Try Scorer

Blake Ferguson ($10) is currently a narrow favourite in First Try Scorer betting markets from Brett Morris ($11), Darius Boyd ($11), James Tedesco ($11), Valentine Holmes ($12) and Jarryd Hayne ($13).

Outside of Andrew Fifita, nobody was more impressive in the opening game of the 2017 State Of Origin Series than James Tedesco and he will be looking to get himself more involved as he gets more State Of Origin experience under his belt.

Tyson Frizell did not score in Game 1, but he went very close on a number of occasion and the New South Wales halves are always looking for him when they get inside their attacking 20 – the $29 currently on offer is well and truly over the odds.

Valentine Holmes has proven during his NRL career to date that he is a proven tryscorer and he has also shown an ability to create something out of nothing.

Holmes is certainly not scared by the big occasion and he will be looking for as many opportunities as possible in the early stages of this clash.

Gavin Cooper is back in the Queensland side mainly due to this excellent combination with Thurston and that is one of the reasons that he is another forward that represents value in this First Try Scorer betting market.

He scores plenty of tries for the Cowboys and is always dangerous close to the line.

Back James Tedesco @ $11, Valentine Holmes @ $11, Gavin Cooper @ $26 & Tyson Frizell @ $29

Man Of The Match

Queensland lacked creativity without Johnathan Thurston in the side for the opening game of the 2017 State Of Origin series and there is no doubt that Thurston will be the key man for Queensland.

Thurston was at his brilliant best when he returned to NRL action for the North Queensland Cowboys and if he can transfer that form to State Of Origin level he is an excellent chance of being named best on ground.

Outside of Andrew Fifita, the best value on the ground in Game 1 of the series was James Tedesco and Queensland simply have no answers for the New South Wales full-back.

It really would not surprise if he ran amok once again.

Back Johnathan Thurston @ $7 & James Tedesco @ $7 To Be Named Man Of The Match

State Of Origin Game 2 Teams

New South Wales

James Tedesco (Wests Tigers)

Blake Ferguson (Sydney Roosters)

Josh Dugan (St George Illawarra Dragons)

Jarryd Hayne (Gold Coast Titans)

Brett Morris (Canterbury Bulldogs)

James Maloney (Cronulla Sharks)

Mitchell Pearce (Sydney Roosters)

Aaron Woods (Wests Tigers)

Nathan Peats (Gold Coast Titans)

Andrew Fifita (Cronulla Sharks)

Josh Jackson (Canterbury Bulldogs)

Boyd Cordner (Sydney Roosters)

Tyson Frizell (St George Illawarra Dragons)

Bench

David Klemmer (Canterbury Bulldogs)

Wade Graham (Cronulla Sharks)

Jake Trbojevic (Manly Sea Eagles)

Jack Bird (Cronulla Sharks)

Queensland Maroons

Billy Slater (Melbourne Storm)

Valentine Holmes (Cronulla Sharks)

Will Chambers (Melbourne Storm)

Darius Boyd (Brisbane Broncos)

Dane Gagai (Newcastle Knights)

Johnathan Thurston (North Queensland Cowboys)

Cooper Cronk (Melbourne Storm)

Dylan Napa (Sydney Roosters)

Cameron Smith (Melbourne Storm)

Josh Papalii (Canberra Raiders)

Gavin Cooper (North Queensland Cowboys)

Matt Gillett (Brisbane Broncos)

Josh McGuire (Brisbane Broncos)

Bench

Michael Morgan (North Queensland Cowboys)

Tim Glasby (Melbourne Storm)

Coen Hess (North Queensland Cowboys)

Jarrod Wallace (Gold Coast Titans)

2016

The second game of the 2016 State Of Origin Series will be held at Suncorp Stadium on Wednesday June 22.

Queensland put themselves in the box seat to win their tenth State Of Origin Series in 11 years with their gritty 6-4 victory over New South Wales in the opening game the series and they will go into this contest as clear favourites.

Can Queensland secure another series win or will New South Wales take us to a Game 3 decider? We have analysed both teams as well as all the relevant stats to come up with the best betting plays for State Of Origin Game 2!

State Of Origin Game 2 Betting

Queensland are clear favourites to secure another State Of Origin Series win with a victory over New South Wales at Suncorp Stadium.

Queensland have been backed into $1.52 to maintain their stellar record at Suncorp Stadium, while New South Wales are at the lengthy odds of $2.60 to keep the series alive.

The line is currently set at 5.5 points, while Queensland are 1-12 to win by $2.75.

State Of Origin Game 2 Tips

Head To Head Betting

We successfully predicted that Queensland would score a narrow victory over New South Wales in the opening game of the 2016 State Of Origin Series and we are confident that we will find the right betting plays again.

History really is against New South Wales in this clash.

Queensland have won seven of the past eight games at Suncorp Stadium and New South Wales have not won the second game of a series at Suncorp Stadium since 2000.

The Maroons have always found another level in front of their home fans throughout the history of State Of Origin and that leaves New South Wales staring down the barrel of a very difficult assignment.

The scary thing for New South Wales is that Queensland were nowhere near their best in Game 1.

New South Wales were able to keep the likes of Johnathan Thurston, Cooper Cronk and Greg Inglis fairly quiet and they were still unable to win – achieving this in two straight games is much easier said than done.

The Blues have only made the one forced change to their team – with Tyson Frizzel replacing the injured Boyd Cordner – and Laurie Daley elected not to bring James Tedesco into the side or replace the useless Dylan Walker on the bench.

This is definitely Queensland’s game to win and they are safe bet to do just that on Wednesday night.

Recommended Bet: Back Queensland @ $1.53

Margin Betting

Queensland 1-12 ($2.60) is a clear favourite from New South Wales 1-12 ($3.50), Queensland 13+ ($3.60) and New South Wales (13+) in State Of Origin Game 2 Margin betting markets.

14 of the last 17 State Of Origin games have been decided by less than 12 points, but there is some evidence to suggest that Queensland can put a big score on New South Wales in this clash.

The Maroons have won three of the past four games played at Suncorp Stadium by more than 12 points and we have seen so many times over the last decade just how dangerous Queensland can be when Thurston and Cronk are given the opportunity to attack their rivals.

Those that are keen to back New South Wales to win the game may as well take the $3.50 that is on offer for them to win between 1-12 as New South Wales have not won a State Of Origin fixture by more than 13 points since 2007.

Recommended Bet: Back Queensland (13+) @ $3.60

First Try Scorer

Queensland have scored the first try in the past four State Of Origin games played at Suncorp Stadium and they look likely to do the same in this fixture.

Corey Oates was not able to cross for a try in his State Of Origin debut, but he is still a deserving favourite to get across the white stripe first as Queensland simply love attacking towards their left-hand side.

Oates will be the beneficiary of this.

There is no player in State Of Origin history that has scored more tries per minutes played than Darius Boyd and he has been in excellent form for the Brisbane Broncos.

He is definite value at his current price of $15.

There is not a great deal of value on offer for New South Wales – especially in the backs – but Tyson Frizell is a player that is capable of finding his way to the try line and he will be running the same lines as Boyd Cordner did in the opening game of the series.

He is worth including at his current price of $26.

Recommended Bets: Back Corey Oates ($8), Darius Boyd ($15) and Tyson Frizell ($26) to score the first try.

Man Of The Match

Johnathan Thurston is set to have a very big game for Queensland in State Of Origin Game 2, but the market is clearly aware of that and he is at the very short price of $5 to be named man of the match – there is no value there.

It would not surprise to see Darius Boyd cross for a couple of tries in this fixture and he was arguably unlucky not to be named man of the match in game 1.

He should go close again and at $10 he is a good bet.

James Maloney has been one of the best players in the NRL in recent months and he is going to need to stand-up if New South Wales are any chance of winning this series.

He appeals at his current price of $15.

Recommended Bet: Back Darius Boyd ($10) and James Maloney ($15) To Be Named Man Of The Match

State Of Origin Game 2 Teams

New South Wales

Matt Moylan (Penrith Panthers)

Blake Ferguson (Sydney Roosters)

Michael Jennings (Parramatta Eels)

Josh Morris (Canterbury Bulldogs)

Josh Mansour (Penrith Panthers)

James Maloney (Cronulla Sharks)

Adam Reynolds (South Sydney Rabbitohs)

Aaron Woods (Wests Tigers)

Robbie Farah (Wests Tigers)

James Tamou (North Queensland Cowboys)

Wade Graham (Cronulla Sharks)

Josh Jackson (Canterbury Bulldogs)

Paul Gallen (Cronulla Sharks)

Bench

Dylan Walker (Manly Sea Eagles)

Greg Bird (Gold Coast Titans)

David Klemmer (Canterbury Bulldogs)

Andrew Fifita (Cronulla Sharks)

Queensland Maroons

Darius Boyd (Brisbane Broncos)

Corey Oates (Brisbane Broncos)

Greg Inglis (South Sydney Rabbitohs)

Justin O’Neill (North Queensland Cowboys)

Dane Gagai (Newcastle Knights)

Johnathan Thurston (North Queensland Cowboys)

Cooper Cronk (Melbourne Storm)

Matt Scott (North Queensland Cowboys)

Cameron Smith (Melbourne Storm)

Josh McGuire (Brisbane Broncos)

Matt Gillett (Brisbane Broncos)

Sam Thaiday (Brisbane Broncos)

Corey Parker (Brisbane Broncos)

Bench

Michael Morgan (North Queensland Cowboys)

Jacob Lillyman (New Zealand Warriors)

Aidan Guerra (Sydney Roosters)

Josh Papalii (Canberra Raiders)