In a dramatic and fiercely contested decider New South Wales won 14-4 over Queensland in the 2024 State of Origin series finale in Brisbane. This win marks only the second time the Blues have secured a series-deciding victory at Lang Park, with the last occurring in 2005. The triumph also gives Michael Maguire a series win in his inaugural campaign as Blues coach.
State of Origin Series Victory
The match, played in front of a roaring crowd of 52,457 at Lang Park, saw the Maroons hold a slim 4-2 lead until the 61st minute. The turning point came when Bradman Best finished off a brilliant Jarome Luai line-break to score in the corner, quickly followed by Mitch Moses slicing through the Maroons’ defense for a second try. These two tries in nine minutes shifted the momentum, allowing the Blues to wrest the Shield from Queensland for the first time since 2021.
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Early Intensity and Key Moments
The pre-game tension was palpable, both in the stands and around Lang Park, as fans braced for a high-stakes clash. The Maroons were aiming for a third consecutive series win, while the Blues sought to overcome a long-standing inability to win a deciding Game III in Brisbane.
The game began with high intensity, exemplified by Blues enforcer Angus Crichton being forced off for a Head Injury Assessment (HIA) after a tackle attempt on Reece Walsh. Crichton soon returned, showing no signs of hesitation as he threw himself into the fray with powerful runs.
Queensland, determined not to be outmuscled on home turf, responded with fierce defense. The tension culminated in an all-in brawl on the half-hour mark, ignited by a shove from Maroons’ captain Daly Cherry-Evans on Jarome Luai after a turnover. Players from both teams, including the New South Wales bench, rushed in, leading to sin-binnings for Cameron Murray and Jeremiah Nanai.
Tactical Kicks and Defensive Standoffs
Despite dominant possession, the Blues struggled to breach Queensland’s defense, leading to a strategic penalty kick by Zac Lomax to level the scores at 2-2 early in the second half. Queensland regained a narrow lead through a penalty kick by Val Holmes after a foul by Reece Robson.
Breakthrough Tries and Series Win
The match’s decisive moments came when Luai’s brilliant run set up Best’s try, followed by Moses’ dazzling solo effort to extend the lead to 14-4. Exhausted from relentless defense, the Maroons were unable to mount a comeback, and the Blues celebrated their long-awaited series win as Maroons fans began to leave Lang Park.
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Post-Match Reflections
The match underscored the intensity and rivalry of State of Origin, with both teams delivering a high-stakes performance. The Blues’ ability to capitalize on key moments and maintain pressure was crucial in securing their historic victory.
For fans and players alike, this series will be remembered for its ferocity, tactical battles, and the ultimate triumph of New South Wales. As the Blues savor their victory, attention will soon turn to the next chapter in this iconic sporting rivalry.
