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Queenslander
02-05-07, 11:39 AM
http://premier.ticketek.com.au/dbimages/sfx15914.jpg
State of Origin 2007: Game One

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/6/66/Queensland_Maroons.jpg/155px-Queensland_Maroons.jpg vs http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/3/3d/NSW_Blues.PNG

Queensland Maroons vs New South Wales Blues
Wednesday 23rd May, 8:00pm; Suncorp Stadium



Referee:Paul Simpkins
Sideline Officials: Steve Carrall and Russell Turner
Video Referee's: Bill Harrigan & Tim Mander
Standby Referee: Shayne Hayne

Team Notes:

Queensland
2006 State of Origin Champions

Neville Costigan is primed to become the 161st man to enter Queensland State of Origin folklore, named to make his XXXX Maroons debut next Wednesday at Suncorp Stadium. Includes full XXXX Maroons team.

Costigan was the only new face when QRL Chairman John McDonald and Chairman of Selectors Des Morris announced the team for the opening game of this year's Harvey Norman State of Origin series in Brisbane.

The XXXX Maroons team, captained for the 11th time by Darren Lockyer, will enter camp immediately, spending the bulk of time between Enoggera Army Barracks, Toowoomba and the Gold Coast.

The head-to-head record in State of Origin matches presently stands at 38 wins to Queensland, 37 losses and two draws.Queensland holds the Origin shield after last year's dramatic 16-14 win in the third and deciding game, sealed by a freakish try to Lockyer.

Still boasting the record for the most appearances for his country, the iconic figure of Mal Meninga will again take the reins as head coach of the XXXX Maroons.New South Wales
Newcastle hooker Danny Buderus has won hooker position ahead of Robbie Farah and been named NSW captain for the 4th successive year.

Parramatta winger Jarryd Hayne, Newcastle halfback Jarrod Mullen, Melbourne prop Brett White, Newcastle utility Kurt Gidley and Sydney Roosters back-rower Anthony Tupou will all make their State of Origin debuts.

Mullen has been handed the halfback position ahead of Brett Kimmorley, Matt Orford and the injured Craig Gower with Braith Anasta doing enough to be given another chance at five-eighth.

The forward pack picked itself following Australia's Test demolition of New Zealand, although Ryan Hoffman and Greg Bird can count themselves unlucky missing out to Andrew Ryan and Anthony Tupou. Hoffman who was 18th man for the Test match is expected to be named 18th man on the weekend for the Blues.

Blues goal kicker and centre Jamie Lyon is facing a one-match suspension for a dangerous throw following Manly's hard fought 22-12 win against Parramatta on Friday night and will go to the judiciary tomorrow night where he'll plead not guilty and attempt to get off the charge.Teams:

http://rebelsport.com.au/data/pages/categories/images/NRL_20.gif
1. Karmichael Hunt (Brisbane Broncos)
2. Brent Tate (Brisbane Broncos)
3. Steven Bell (Manly Sea Eagles)
4. Justin Hodges (Brisbane Broncos)
5. Greg Inglis (Melbourne Storm)
6. Darren Lockyer (c) (Brisbane Broncos)
7. Johnathan Thurston (North QLD Cowboys)
8. Steve Price (New Zealand Warriors)
9. Cameron Smith (Melbourne Storm)
10. Petero Civoniceva (Brisbane Broncos)
11. Tonie Carroll (Brisbane Broncos)
12. Carl Webb (North QLD Cowboys) ***Ruled Out & Replaced by Antonio Kaufusi***
13. Dallas Johnson (Melbourne Storm)
Interchange:
14. Shaun Berrigan (Brisbane Broncos)
15. Jacob Lillyman (North QLD Cowboys)
16. Nate Myles (Sydney Roosters)
17. Neville Costigan (Canberra Raiders)
18. Antonio Kaufusi (Melbourne Storm)Coach: Mal Meninga


http://rebelsport.com.au/data/pages/categories/images/NRL_19.gif

1. Anthony Minichiello (Sydney Roosters)
2. Matt King (Melbourne Storm)
3. Jamie Lyon (Manly Sea Eagles)
4. Matt Cooper (St George Illawarra Dragons)
5. Jarryd Hayne (Parramatta Eels)
6. Braith Anasta (Sydney Roosters)
7. Jarrod Mullen (Newcastle Knights)
8. Brent Kite (Manly Sea Eagles)
9. Danny Buderus (c) (Newcastle Knights)
10. Brett White (Melbourne Storm)
11. Nathan Hindmarsh (Parramatta Eels)
12. Willie Mason (Bulldogs)
13. Andrew Ryan (Bulldogs)
Interchange:
14. Luke Bailey (Gold Coast Titans)
15. Steve Simpson (Newcastle Knights)
16. Anthony Tupou (Sydney Roosters)
17. Kurt Gidley (Newcastle Knights) Coach: Graham Murray



***Please use this thread for game day spoilers and general State of Origin: Game One information***

Queenslander
02-05-07, 11:40 AM
Jerseys:

Queensland: vs New South Wales:

http://www.onerugby.com.au/productimages/3402sml.jpg vs http://www.onerugby.com.au/productimages/2969sml.jpg

Queenslander
02-05-07, 11:48 AM
History:


2006:

Queensland defeated New South Wales 2-1
Total Games Won:

Queensland 38
New South Wales 37
Drawn 2
Series Wins:

New South Wales 12
Queensland 11
Drawn 2

Tamwelg
09-05-07, 12:45 PM
Source: www.nrl.com.au


Origin Teams Announced Next Tuesday

Wednesday, May 9, 2007 - 10:32 AM

The NSW Wizard Blues and XXXX Queensland Maroons teams for the 2007 Harvey Norman State Of Origin Series will be announced at 11am on Tuesday, May 15.

The NSW Wizard Blues team will be announced at the Wizard offices, 12 Castlereagh St, Sydney.

The XXXX Queensland Maroons team will be announced at the Royal On The Park Hotel, corner of Alice St and Albert St, Brisbane.

Schedules for both teams will be released later this week.

Source: NRL

Robbie_Dee
09-05-07, 03:42 PM
Cooome on Matt Bowen!

Tamwelg
09-05-07, 04:48 PM
Cooome on Matt Bowen!

Yeah I agree

Tamwelg
10-05-07, 10:25 AM
Source: www.nrl.com.au


Thaiday out of Origin opener

Thursday, May 10, 2007 - 11:11 AM

Queensland forward Sam Thaiday is expected to miss the opening State of Origin rugby league match against New South Wales after being diagnosed with a fractured eye socket.

Thaiday suffered a small fracture in his right eye socket in Brisbane's win over South Sydney last Friday and says he faces two to four weeks on the sidelines.

That would rule him out of selection for Origin I at Suncorp Stadium on Wednesday week.

He has been replaced in the Brisbane squad for Friday night's NRL match against the Sharks by Corey Parker.

Parker will be making his first appearance since dislocating his wrist in the opening game of the season against the Cowboys.

Crash-tackling lock Tonie Carroll failed to take any part in Thursday morning's final training session at Red Hill but coach Wayne Bennett declared him fit to play the Sharks at Sydney's Telstra Stadium.

Several of Brisbane's players are in the running for Origin selection with Queensland selectors to name their 17-man squad on Tuesday.

Bennett is expecting to lose Darren Lockyer, Karmichael Hunt, Brent Tate, Shaun Berrigan, Petero Civoniceva and Tonie Carroll to Queensland Origin duty and said Brad Thorn and Dane Carlaw could also play their way into a maroons jumper.

Source: AAP

Queenslander
10-05-07, 02:47 PM
Thaiday still an Origin chance


May 10, 2007

QUEENSLAND selector Gene Miles believes Sam Thaiday remains in contention to play the opening State of Origin match against New South Wales despite a fractured eye socket.

Thaiday has been diagnosed with a small fracture in his right eye socket suffered in Brisbane's NRL win over South Sydney last Friday and the forward said he was likely to be out for two to four weeks.

Maroons selectors are expected to name Thaiday in their 17-man squad on Tuesday, with his progress to be monitored leading up to the series opener against New South Wales at Suncorp Stadium on Wednesday week.

That will be almost three weeks after he sustained the injury.

Miles said he had spoken to Brisbane coach Wayne Bennett and believed Thaiday would be fit in time to play Origin.

Thaiday has been replaced by Corey Parker in the Brisbane squad for tomorrow night's NRL match against the Sharks at Toyota Park.

Parker will be making his first appearance since dislocating his wrist in the opening game of the season against the Cowboys.

Crash-tackling lock Tonie Carroll failed to take any part in this morning's final training session at Red Hill but coach Wayne Bennett declared him fit to play the Sharks.

Many of Brisbane's players are in the running for Origin selection.

Bennett is expecting to lose Darren Lockyer, Karmichael Hunt, Brent Tate, Shaun Berrigan, Petero Civoniceva,Tonie Carroll and Thaiday to Origin duty and said Brad Thorn and Dane Carlaw could also play their way into a maroons jumper.

AAP

Darren Lockyer
10-05-07, 05:10 PM
he'll play. he's a tough nut

Rabbitohs-07
10-05-07, 08:43 PM
QLD by 13+ Im going with 16

Boofhead
10-05-07, 10:02 PM
Go U Maroons!

Queenslander
14-05-07, 03:04 PM
Maroons have major selection woes

By Karl deKroo
May 14, 2007

PENRITH star Paul Aiton last night revealed that Queensland hardman Carl Webb may have been responsible for breaking his jaw as the Maroons began trying to douse their red-hot favouritism for the State of Origin series.

Webb was one of several players nominated by Queensland as being in doubt through suspension or injury for the interstate opener next Wednesday, after the North Queensland firebrand raised an elbow against Aiton during Penrith's win on Saturday night.

Webb will come under NRL scrutiny today but Aiton last night confirmed his possible hairline fracture of the jaw was a result.

"That was when it happened, yes," Aiton said.

"I don't remember too much. I just went into the tackle and came off second best. I'll leave it to what the referee says."

In a predictable move to reclaim underdog status, Queensland's chairman of selectors Des Morris said yesterday the Maroons could be forced to go against a policy of not picking injured players, with a string of frontline stars in doubt on the eve of the team announcement.

Skipper Darren Lockyer remains in doubt with an ankle injury which flared on Friday night, while the back-row issues have been exasperated with Webb and Jacob Lillyman on report and Cowboys player Matt Scott sidelined with a knee injury.

Brisbane's Sam Thaiday is in doubt with a fractured eye socket, while Melbourne hitman Michael Crocker is certain to miss tonight's game against the Bulldogs.

Even Queensland's golden backline stocks are allegedly thinning. Brisbane flyer Brent Tate faces a fitness test tomorrow on an injured hip, while teammates Karmichael Hunt (knee) and Justin Hodges (knee) will be closely assessed.

"They (injuries) always are a concern, but we'll have to wait and see what reports we get," Morris said. "It's just too early to get a final word on where we are at with some players. We had a policy last year where we didn't call any injured players into the squad.

"We'd like to stick with that but obviously with a player like Lockyer we'd also like to give him more time to recover."

The Courier Mail

Queenslander
14-05-07, 04:01 PM
Webb cleared for Origin

Barry Dick

May 14, 2007 02:10pm
Article from: The Courier-Mail

QUEENSLAND hardman Carl Webb has been cleared to play in next week's State of Origin series opener.
The NRL match review committee has decided not to charge the big Cowboy over a couple of elbowing incidents in North Queensland's loss to Penrith on Saturday night.

The Queensland team for the Suncorp Stadium Origin match will be announced tomorrow (Tuesday) and Webb's name is certain to be read out.

In a blow for NSW, Test centre Jamie Lyon was cited by the match review committee for a spear tackle in Manly's win over Parramatta last Friday night. He will cop a one-week suspension if he enters an early guilty plea.

Manly should also be without New Zealand Test centre Steve Matai for next Monday night's clash with Brisbane at Brookvale Oval after he was cited for a high tackle. He will serve a week if he pleads guilty.
Roosters forward Danny Nutley also was charged with a dangerous throw but will avoid suspension if he pleads guilty.

Steelers
14-05-07, 04:59 PM
In a blow for NSW, Test centre Jamie Lyon was cited by the match review committee for a spear tackle in Manly's win over Parramatta last Friday night. He will cop a one-week suspension if he enters an early guilty plea.


Well that certainly changes things for NSW. I think without Lyon and his goal-kicking abilities, the Blues might go for El Masri on the wing, which is kind of disappointing, as Jarrad Hayne has been on fire.

Steelers
14-05-07, 05:16 PM
Source: www.foxsports.com.au



Lyon in doubt for Origin

MANLY centre Jamie Lyon is in doubt for next week's State of Origin opener after being charged with a dangerous throw by the match review committee.

Lyon was considered a certainty for New South Wales selection, either at centre or five-eighth, but will be ruled out of the game through suspension unless he successfully fights the charge at the judiciary.

Even an early guilty plea will not save Lyon, with the Sea Eagles star still accruing enough points for a one-match ban.

He was charged with a grade one dangerous throw arising from a tackle in the 52nd minute of Friday's win over Parramatta at Brookvale Oval.

Lyon would have avoided suspension with an early guilty plea if it was not for loading from a prior offence while playing for St Helens in the English Super League last year.

Meanwhile, there was good news for Queensland Origin selectors with North Queensland duo Carl Webb and Jacob Lillyman both cleared over incidents from the Cowboys' loss to Penrith on Saturday.

Manly centre Steve Matai was also charged with a grade three careless high tackle for his high shot on Parramatta centre Ben Smith in the 36th minute of Friday's game.

Matai will miss one week with an early guilty plea, or risk a two-match ban if he goes to the judiciary.

Sydney Roosters prop Danny Nutley was also charged with a grade one dangerous throw in the sixth minute of Sunday's win over Gold Coast Titans, but will avoid suspension with an early guilty plea.

jake86
15-05-07, 01:28 AM
According to this (very doubtful) article, Mullen has been picked as the NSW HB:

Source: http://au.news.yahoo.com/070514/23/13gg1.html

Exclusive: Mullen picked as Blues halfback

By 7News

Knights halfback Jarrod Mullen will be selected as the NSW State of Origin halfback tomorrow morning.
A source close to selectors has confirmed to Yahoo!7 News that Mullen has won the battle against Brett Kimmorley for the number 7 jersey.

The retirement of Andrew Johns last month had left selectors struggling to pick a halfback for the side.

After his scinitilating performance against the Warriors on Saturday night, 20-year-old Mullen from Newcastle has become the favoured choice among league experts around Australia.

Teams will be selected tomorrow morning.



Congrats and good luck to him if true, but you have to doubt 'exclusive' articles like this

Cowboy Titan
15-05-07, 07:22 AM
Apparently Craig Bellamy let slip last night at the post match conference that Inglis, Johnson & Smith were in the Qld team and Slater & Crocker missed out.

Steelers
15-05-07, 07:52 AM
According to this (very doubtful) article, Mullen has been picked as the NSW HB:

Source: http://au.news.yahoo.com/070514/23/13gg1.html

Exclusive: Mullen picked as Blues halfback

By 7News

Knights halfback Jarrod Mullen will be selected as the NSW State of Origin halfback tomorrow morning.
A source close to selectors has confirmed to Yahoo!7 News that Mullen has won the battle against Brett Kimmorley for the number 7 jersey.

The retirement of Andrew Johns last month had left selectors struggling to pick a halfback for the side.

After his scinitilating performance against the Warriors on Saturday night, 20-year-old Mullen from Newcastle has become the favoured choice among league experts around Australia.

Teams will be selected tomorrow morning.



Congrats and good luck to him if true, but you have to doubt 'exclusive' articles like this

Yahoo7 isn't exactly the most reliable and trustworthy rugby league news source ;)

Steelers
15-05-07, 08:04 AM
Source: www.foxsports.com.au



Manly's ploy to turn Jamie Blue

IT'S the ultimate payback to Queensland. Manly will today submit a radical plan to the NRL in a bid to have gamebreaker Jamie Lyon freed to play for New South Wales in Origin I.

The Sea Eagles centre is facing a one-match suspension after yesterday being charged with a grade one dangerous throw on Parramatta winger Eric Grothe on Friday night.

Any suspension was thought to rule Lyon out of Origin I in Brisbane tomorrow week.

But Manly is planning to name Lyon in its side at 9am today - two hours before the Blues side is announced.

This way, Manly claim Lyon's one-match suspension could be served in next Monday night's game against Brisbane - freeing him to play for NSW.

If chosen for NSW, Lyon would have been unavailable for the Broncos match at Brookvale in any case.

The bold plan to clear Lyon will infuriate Queensland, but the Maroons are no stranger to Origin tricks.

Four years ago they successfully pulled off a similar trick to have Lote Tuqiri freed to play.

The Maroons named "TBA" in their side, Tuqiri served a suspension for Brisbane on the weekend and then starred in a midweek Queensland Origin victory.

The TBA loophole was later closed but Manly's strategy of naming the player before the Origin side is picked is a new one.

NSW selectors are aware of Manly's plan.

The Daily Telegraph has learnt that leading Sydney barrister Geoff Bellew, SC, will today send a confidential report about the Lyon case to NRL judiciary chairman Greg Woods.

Bellew's submission, in broad terms, will ask that Woods clear Lyon to play State of Origin.

NRL rules state Woods has the discretion to clear Lyon, but The Daily Telegraph understands he will take some convincing.

"The club takes the view that for the suspension to operate in such a way as to preclude him from State of Origin would be unfair in a variety of ways," Bellew said.

"Those reasons will be expanded in the submission."

If Woods vetoes Manly's action, Lyon will then plead guilty and fight the charge at a judiciary hearing tomorrow night.

If he fails in his bid to beat the charge, he will then be ruled out of Origin I.

In this case, Matt King will shift from wing to centre with selectors to name their wingers from either Hazem El Masri, Jarryd Hayne or, ironically, Grothe.

The Sea Eagles are also frustrated that Lyon toppled over 100 judiciary points - the equal of one match - after having a 20 per cent loading added from a send-off when he played with St Helens in England.

Lyon attended the Super League judiciary hearing but the panel deemed the send-off sufficient penalty.

The incident on Friday night was not placed on report by referee Paul Simpkins but the match review committee felt compelled to charge Lyon.

"We want to clarify what we think are some inconsistencies in the charging system," said Manly chief executive Grant Mayer.

"We just want to give Jamie every chance to be selected and play State of Origin.

"It's all about fairness."

"This is not about Jamie Lyon being available for us."




I love this sort of stuff. It is a part of Origin. P!ssing off the other state with loopholes and selection controversies. Origin is almost here!

Queenslander
15-05-07, 08:08 AM
I love this sort of stuff. It is a part of Origin. P!ssing off the other state with loopholes and selection controversies. Origin is almost here!


Bloody NSW! We found the loophole first, took advantage of it and now it is closed.

But anyway, its only Lyon. He isn't that much of a problem ;)

Queenslander
15-05-07, 10:10 AM
XXXX Queensland Maroons Announced - Game I

NEVILLE COSTIGAN is primed to become the 161st man to enter Queensland State of Origin folklore, named to make his XXXX Maroons debut next Wednesday at Suncorp Stadium. Includes full XXXX Maroons team.

Costigan was the only new face when QRL Chairman John McDonald and Chairman of Selectors Des Morris announced the team for the opening game of this year's Harvey Norman State of Origin series in Brisbane.

The XXXX Maroons team, captained for the 11th time by Darren Lockyer, will enter camp immediately, spending the bulk of time between Enoggera Army Barracks, Toowoomba and the Gold Coast.

The head-to-head record in State of Origin matches presently stands at 38 wins to Queensland, 37 losses and two draws.Queensland holds the Origin shield after last year's dramatic 16-14 win in the third and deciding game, sealed by a freakish try to Lockyer.

Still boasting the record for the most appearances for his country, the iconic figure of Mal Meninga will again take the reins as head coach of the XXXX Maroons.

The full squad, pending medicals, is listed below.


XXXX QUEENSLAND MAROONS
v New South Wales 'Wizard' Blues
Suncorp Stadium
May 23, 2007

1. Karmichael HUNT (Brisbane Broncos)
2. Brent TATE (Brisbane Broncos)
3. Steven BELL (Manly Sea Eagles)
4. Justin HODGES (Brisbane Broncos)
5. Greg INGLIS (Melbourne Storm)
6. Darren LOCKYER (c) (Brisbane Broncos)
7. Johnathan THURSTON (North QLD Cowboys)
8. Steve PRICE (New Zealand Warriors)
9. Cameron SMITH (Melbourne Storm)
10. Petero CIVONICEVA (Brisbane Broncos)
11. Tonie CARROLL (Brisbane Broncos)
12. Carl WEBB (North QLD Cowboys)
13. Dallas JOHNSON (Melbourne Storm)

14. Shaun BERRIGAN (Brisbane Broncos)
15. Jacob LILLYMAN (North QLD Cowboys)
16. Nate MYLES (Sydney Roosters)
17. Neville COSTIGAN (Canberra Raiders)


COACH: Mal MENINGA

www.qrl.com.au

Social Loafer
15-05-07, 10:33 AM
Tate over Slater?
Berrigan as the Utility over Bowen?

What on earths doing there.. IMO Cameron Smith is easily an 80 minute player and Costigan can cover hooker if need be...

Anyway good on Neville Costigan for making Origin, the NSW Media will call it a shock selection, but everyone in Canberra knew he was origin bound from about round 3..

Queenslander
15-05-07, 10:35 AM
NSW Team:

1 Anthony Minichiello (Sydney Roosters)
2 Matt King (Melbourne Storm)
3 Jamie Lyon (Manly Sea Eagles)
4 Matt Cooper (St George Illawarra Dragons)
5 Jarryd Hayne (Parramatta Eels)
6 Braith Anasta (Sydney Roosters)
7 Jarrod Mullen (Newcastle Knights)
8 Brent Kite (Manly Sea Eagles)
9 Danny Buderus (c) (Newcastle Knights)
10 Brett White (Melbourne Storm)
11 Nathan Hindmarsh (Parramatta Eels)
12 Willie Mason (Bulldogs)
13 Andrew Ryan (Bulldogs)

14 Luke Bailey (Gold Coast Titans)
15 Steve Simpson (Newcastle Knights)
16 Anthony Tupou (Sydney Roosters)
17 Kurt Gidley (Newcastle Knights)

Social Loafer
15-05-07, 10:38 AM
The Telegraph led Mullan Bandwagon continues to roll on....
He will get found out big time in Origin.. If Mullan played for Canberra there is no way he would have been picked, as NSW selectors don't pay any attention to what happens down here..

Future Star
15-05-07, 11:46 AM
Braith Anasta sucks.

Todd Carney should've gotten it.
he and Jarrod have already played at Rep level before, so they would gel more easily.

k-unit
15-05-07, 12:16 PM
QLD by 13+.

Tries to Hodges, Bell and Civionceva.

Queenslander
15-05-07, 01:08 PM
MAROONS STAT PACK
Written by: QRL Media
May 15th, 2007 11:55 AM

Some useful statistics pertaining to the XXXX Queensland Maroons team named for Game I of the 2007 Harvey Norman State of Origin series.

XXXX MAROONS STAT PACK
Game I ? May 23, 2007

GAMES PLAYED: 77* *Excludes 1987 Exhibition Game
QUEENSLAND WINS: 38
NEW SOUTH WALES WINS: 37
DRAWS: 2

MOST APPEARANCES: Allan Langer 33*, Mal Meninga 32, Wally Lewis 30*, Dale Shearer 25*, Bob Lindner 24*, Gary Larson 24, Darren Lockyer 24, Matt Sing 24, Darren Smith 22, Trevor Gillmeister 21*, Paul Vautin 21*, Martin Bella 21.

MOST POINTS (Career): Mal Meninga 161, Darren Lockyer 69, Dale Shearer 56*, Gary Belcher 48, Allan Langer 41.

MOST TRIES (Career): Dale Shearer 11*, Allan Langer 10, Wally Lewis 7, Bob Lindner 7, Darren Lockyer 6, Mal Meninga 6.

MOST POINTS (Game): Lote Tuqiri 18 (Game II, 2002)

MOST TRIES (Game): Kerry Boustead 3 (Game I, 1984), Lote Tuqiri 3 (Game II, 2002), Matt Saing 3 (Game III, 2003).

MAN OF THE MATCH AWARDS: Wally Lewis 8, Allan Langer 4, Darren Lockyer 3, Sam Backo 2, Martin Bella 2, Chris Close 2, Gary Larson 2, Bob Lindner 2.

MOST APPEARANCES AS CAPTAIN: Wally Lewis 29*, Darren Lockyer 10, Adrian Lam 8, Gorden Tallis 7.

YOUNGEST PLAYER: Ben Ikin (18 years, 83 days in Game I 1995).

OLDEST PLAYER: Allan Langer (35 years, 331 days in Game III 2002).

RECORD AT SUNCORP STADIUM (Lang Park): 22 wins, 15 losses, 1 draw. Since redevelopment ? 4 wins, 2 losses. ANZ Stadium ? 2 wins, 0 losses.

LARGEST CROWD AT SUNCORP STADIUM (Lang Park): 52,484 ? Game I, 2005 Series.

Individual Statistics

KARMICHAEL HUNT
Junior Club: Souths Acacia Ridge Height: 186cm
Date of Birth: 17/11/1986 Weight: 86kg
NRL Appearances: 77 Tests: 6
Origin Appearances: 1 Origin Points: 0


BRENT TATE
Junior Club: Redcliffe Height: 186cm
Date of Birth: 03/03/1982 Weight: 89kg
NRL Appearances: 116 Tests: 14
Origin Appearances: 9 Origin Points: 16 (4t,0g)


STEVEN BELL
Junior Club: Emerald Tigers Height: 182cm
Date of Birth: 28/05/1976 Weight: 93kg
NRL Appearances: 133 Tests: 0
Origin Appearances: 2 Origin Points: 4 (1t,0g)


JUSTIN HODGES
Junior Club: Cairns Kangaroos Height: 190cm
Date of Birth: 25/05/1982 Weight: 98kg
NRL Appearances: 122 Tests: 5
Origin Appearances: 5 Origin Points: 4 (1t,0g)

GREG INGLIS
Junior Club: Brisbane Norths Height: 195cm
Date of Birth: 15/01/1987 Weight: 99kg
NRL Appearances: 39 Tests: 5
Origin Appearances: 1 Origin Points: 8 (1t,0g)


DARREN LOCKYER ?
Junior Club: Roma Cities Height: 178cm
Date of Birth: 24/03/1977 Weight: 86kg
NRL Appearances: 269 Tests: 36
Origin Appearances: 24 Origin Points: 69 (6t,22g,1fg)


JOHNATHAN THURSTON
Junior Club: Toowoomba Brothers Height: 179cm
Date of Birth: 25/04/1983 Weight: 83kg
NRL Appearances: 81 Tests: 6
Origin Appearances: 6 Origin Points: 19 (1t,7g,1fg)

STEVEN PRICE
Junior Club: Newtown, Toowoomba Height: 193cm
Date of Birth: 12/03/1974 Weight: 106kg
NRL Appearances: 267 Tests: 10
Origin Appearances: 20 Origin Points: 4 (1t,0g)


CAMERON SMITH
Junior Club: Logan Brothers Height: 183cm
Date of Birth: 18/06/1983 Weight: 90kg
NRL Appearances: 106 Tests: 6
Origin Appearances: 10 Origin Points: 32 (1t,14g)


PETERO CIVONICEVA
Junior Club: Redcliffe Height: 193cm
Date of Birth: 21/04/1976 Weight: 110kg
NRL Appearances: 201 Tests: 29
Origin Appearances: 17 Origin Points: 4 (1t,0g)


TONIE CARROLL
Junior Club: Waterford Height: 186cm
Date of Birth: 17/02/1976 Weight: 103kg
NRL Appearances: 173 Tests: 7 Aust / 5 NZ
Origin Appearances: 15 Origin Points: 4 (1t,0g)


CARL WEBB
Junior Club: Dalby Height: 182cm
Date of Birth: 20/03/1981 Weight: 107kg
NRL Appearances: 107 Tests: 0
Origin Appearances: 9 Origin Points: 8 (2t,0g)


DALLAS JOHNSON
Junior Club: Atherton Height: 181cm
Date of Birth: 23/01/1982 Weight: 92kg
NRL Appearances: 95 Tests: 0
Origin Appearances: 3 Origin Points: 0

SHAUN BERRIGAN
Junior Club: Wests Mitchelton Height: 178cm
Date of Birth: 04/11/1978 Weight: 87kg
NRL Appearances: 177 Tests: 14
Origin Appearances: 12 Origin Points: 8 (2t,0g)


JACOB LILLYMAN
Junior Club: Richmond Height: 183cm
Date of Birth: 07/03/1984 Weight: 97kg
NRL Appearances: 39 Tests: 0
Origin Appearances: 1 Origin Points: 0


NATE MYLES
Junior Club: Gordonvale Height: 189cm
Date of Birth: 24/06/1985 Weight: 108kg
NRL Appearances: 44 Tests: 0
Origin Appearances: 3 Origin Points: 0


NEVILLE COSTIGAN
Junior Club: Mackay Wests Height: 181cm
Date of Birth: 16/03/1985 Weight: 100kg
NRL Appearances: 52 Tests: 0
Origin Appearances: 0 Origin Points: 0

RLfan
15-05-07, 01:18 PM
I don't know what Myles did to earn a spot. Neville Costigan however has been great and throughly deserved the spot. With Carroll, Webb & Costigan, the blues are going to be hammered in the tackles. Now imagine if Crocker was fit.

Anyway Queensland by 19:)

DIEHARD
15-05-07, 01:47 PM
What a disgrace that Bowen didn't get in! And Slater should have got in as well.

We will still wipe the floor with the Blues but god...I am very angry.

Capital_Shark
15-05-07, 03:35 PM
Queensland Team
1. Karmichael HUNT (Brisbane Broncos)
2. Brent TATE (Brisbane Broncos)
3. Steven BELL (Manly Sea Eagles)
4. Justin HODGES (Brisbane Broncos)
5. Greg INGLIS (Melbourne Storm)
6. Darren LOCKYER (c) (Brisbane Broncos)
7. Johnathan THURSTON (North QLD Cowboys)
8. Steve PRICE (New Zealand Warriors)
9. Cameron SMITH (Melbourne Storm)
10. Petero CIVONICEVA (Brisbane Broncos)
11. Tonie CARROLL (Brisbane Broncos)
12. Carl WEBB (North QLD Cowboys)
13. Dallas JOHNSON (Melbourne Storm)

14. Shaun BERRIGAN (Brisbane Broncos)
15. Jacob LILLYMAN (North QLD Cowboys)
16. Nate MYLES (Sydney Roosters)
17. Neville COSTIGAN (Canberra Raiders)

Bold are the ones I don't agree with or would have had someone else there.


- First off Tate has had 1 good game this year and that was the ANZAC Test off the back of a bunch of criticism to fire him up, Bill Slater should be there, I don't think he's played a bad minute this year, let alone a bad game!
- Steven Bell, while excellent last year, has been the poor performer in a great Manly outfit this year. Every defense seems to be onto him and his style of scoring trys by sliding back in field and never passing the ball. He'll be solid but probably someone more deserving.
- Shaun Berrigan has to make way for Matty Bowen. Nothing against Berrigan but Bowen can fill the same back line gaps that could arise from injury like Berrigan and Cam Smith is an 80min player.
- Nothing against Lillyman but I reckon the bench could be stronger and better equipped to match it with the NSW big men if another prop was there. Ben Ross and Antonio Kaufusi come to mind.
- Finally a big WTF for the selection of Nate Myles. A big WTF for the selection of so many Roosters in both teams really. But Myles has not stood out for me at all this year. Its a pitty Crocker and Thaiday are injured. But I'm sure there are better more deserving options.

NSW Team
1 Anthony Minichiello (Sydney Roosters)
2 Matt King (Melbourne Storm)
3 Jamie Lyon (Manly Sea Eagles)
4 Matt Cooper (St George Illawarra Dragons)
5 Jarryd Hayne (Parramatta Eels)
6 Braith Anasta (Sydney Roosters)
7 Jarrod Mullen (Newcastle Knights)
8 Brent Kite (Manly Sea Eagles)
9 Danny Buderus (c) (Newcastle Knights)
10 Brett White (Melbourne Storm)
11 Nathan Hindmarsh (Parramatta Eels)
12 Willie Mason (Bulldogs)
13 Andrew Ryan (Bulldogs)

14 Luke Bailey (Gold Coast Titans)
15 Steve Simpson (Newcastle Knights)
16 Anthony Tupou (Sydney Roosters)
17 Kurt Gidley (Newcastle Knights)

Not gonna pull the NSW team apart too much cause it doesn't overly concern me who they pick. Dunno about Mullen but can't really push the wagon for many other halves either. Anasta has been going alright this year and NSW really have no other option I guess. Buggered if I know what Matt Cooper has done to deserve selection - should move King into centre and have El Masri on the wing, the fact he's been over looked again is a joke, even though he had a rough night for his standards last night. Hope NSW lose on the back of poor goal kicking. Finally, not that I'm too bothered as I'd rather have them playing this weekend, but it shows NSW strength up front if Bird and Gallen can't get a look in. Good to see Gidley there, he's been fantastic this year.

I still believe QLD will win, but I'm disappointed. They had the potential for a stellar team and missed the mark I think.

Tamwelg
15-05-07, 03:54 PM
What a disgrace that Bowen didn't get in! And Slater should have got in as well.

We will still wipe the floor with the Blues but god...I am very angry.

yeah, some disappointing selections, but we'll still win.

Steelers
15-05-07, 04:11 PM
Queensland Team
1. Karmichael HUNT (Brisbane Broncos) - Matty Bowen should have got it. He has been the form player of the season so far.
2. Brent TATE (Brisbane Broncos) - Like CS said, he has had 1 good game, and that was the test match. It is a shame that the Test selectors have decided who makes the Origin team, because Tate deserves to be in reserve grade the way he has played this season.
3. Steven BELL (Manly Sea Eagles)
4. Justin HODGES (Brisbane Broncos)
5. Greg INGLIS (Melbourne Storm)
6. Darren LOCKYER (c) (Brisbane Broncos)
7. Johnathan THURSTON (North QLD Cowboys)
8. Steve PRICE (New Zealand Warriors)
9. Cameron SMITH (Melbourne Storm)
10. Petero CIVONICEVA (Brisbane Broncos)
11. Tonie CARROLL (Brisbane Broncos) - He hasn't done anything spectacular at all really
12. Carl WEBB (North QLD Cowboys)
13. Dallas JOHNSON (Melbourne Storm)

14. Shaun BERRIGAN (Brisbane Broncos) - We don't need a second hooker, and if KHunt is at fullback (which is stupid), then Matty Bowen should have the utility role.
15. Jacob LILLYMAN (North QLD Cowboys) - Only made the side because he somehow made the side last year.
16. Nate MYLES (Sydney Roosters) - WHAT THE F**K! Seriously, the only reason I can even fathom him being in the side is because he played last year!
17. Neville COSTIGAN (Canberra Raiders)


NSW Team
1 Anthony Minichiello (Sydney Roosters)
2 Matt King (Melbourne Storm)
3 Jamie Lyon (Manly Sea Eagles)
4 Matt Cooper (St George Illawarra Dragons)
5 Jarryd Hayne (Parramatta Eels)
6 Braith Anasta (Sydney Roosters)
7 Jarrod Mullen (Newcastle Knights) - Has done nothing to deserve this IMO. The only reason he was even considered in the first place was because the media has made him out to be a great player. He is an average halfback at best. I don't know why he is even rated as a good halfback, let alone earning SOO selection.
8 Brent Kite (Manly Sea Eagles)
9 Danny Buderus (c) (Newcastle Knights)
10 Brett White (Melbourne Storm)
11 Nathan Hindmarsh (Parramatta Eels)
12 Willie Mason (Bulldogs)
13 Andrew Ryan (Bulldogs)

14 Luke Bailey (Gold Coast Titans)
15 Steve Simpson (Newcastle Knights) - Only got the spot because he played in the test match. Once again it is a shame that the Australian selectors also decide on half of the SOO teams.
16 Anthony Tupou (Sydney Roosters) - As above. He is an average player playing in a poor team, who has only earned selection because of some stupid national selectors.
17 Kurt Gidley (Newcastle Knights)



Alot of bad selections, although it is good to see some good selections here and there as well. I am loving the fact that Brett White has made the NSW run-on side after his stellar start to the season and great City-Country performance, and Costigan definately deserved to be in the QLD side. I can't believe that Matty Bowen and Billy Slater aren't in the QLD line-up though. I honestly hope NSW give us a hiding in Game 1 so that the QLD selectors can give the team a complete overhaul and pick players that deserve to be there.

Social Loafer
15-05-07, 04:15 PM
On another note, how did Manly Fullback Brett Stewert Miss out?

Des
15-05-07, 04:20 PM
Myles and Lillyman? Who? Ya gotta be bloody joking. Someone needs a slap around the head. LOL. They put these nevilles in and leave Matty Bowen out. I shake my had in disgust.

Steelers
15-05-07, 04:22 PM
On another note, how did Manly Fullback Brett Stewert Miss out?

I also want to know that, but of course, they went with the 'experience and notability' of Minichiello. He was never in doubt, just like KHunt was never in doubt, which is absolutely disgraceful. You should always have to earn your spot in a rep side, not earn your spot and get to keep it for a few seasons after no matter how badly you play.

J-Storm
15-05-07, 04:35 PM
I have to agree with everyone on the Nate Myles selection, I mean have the selectors forgotten about Dane Carlaw who has played more n' way better footy then Myles this year. And wtf is with the Berrigan selection? C'mon who is he sh*%ging to get a guernsey over Matt Bowen??? The Tonie Carroll selection I'm actually ok with surprisingly as I'm not a huge fan but I think he will go well in Origin 1, add a bit of mongrel to the forwards. Speaking of which, all the best goes out to Neville Costigan, about time we saw players picked on form n' ability rather than reputation (see the above Myles n' Berrigan)...

As for NSW, I don't really care to be quite honest as i think they always pick the wrong side. But Stewart should've been the Fullback over Mini, as could have Gidley n' even Luke Burt who has played great at the back for the Eels this year. I'd have picked Noddy over Mullo (but hey, what would I know, I obv watch too many games compared to these biased selectors) just cos of experience n' form. The Andrew Ryan n' Anthony Tupou selections I don't fully get 'cos of form but they wanted guys who have done the job before (the job of losing as it was last year, ha ha ha) so Blues supporters maybe can justify those 2 selections. Feel bad though for Hoffman, Bird n' Gallen. Don't like only 1 back on the bench either, better hope all the backs don't get hurt Mr Murray & Co...

Social Loafer
15-05-07, 04:42 PM
Rep Footy= Reputation. The way the Telegraph blew their load over Mullan was unbelievable.

Steve
15-05-07, 04:51 PM
As for the Qld selections, well, I'd have liked to see Bowen in because 1. he's one hell of an exciting footballer to watch (even if i'd be watching from the wrong side!) and i'd like both teams to be as strong as possible to make it the best game possible. The commentators were going on about how hard KHunt was running the ball back in the game on the weekend, yeah, straight back into the defenders, getting absolutely smashed every time.
Come on.

Stewart I think should most definitely have been fullback.
Minichiello has hardly played this year, both Stewart and Gidley have been in amazing form in the 1.
Mullen got it because none of the other halves have been doing that well.
Kimmorley is average, Gower is injured and not playing anywhere near his best, Orford probably hasn't had enough games back from injury, and in anycase, the selectors don't seem to know the guy exists.
Laffranchi should have been in the side over Tupou.
I'd even go with Luke Lewis in centre too, his defence has been superb all year, and I think his attack would be shining a lot more if the team around him was firing.

Steelers
15-05-07, 05:00 PM
Mullen got it because none of the other halves have been doing that well.
Kimmorley is average, Gower is injured and not playing anywhere near his best, Orford probably hasn't had enough games back from injury, and in anycase, the selectors don't seem to know the guy exists.


I don't know why people haven't seriously considered Monaghan in the number 7 jersey. He orchastrated Manly's start to the season in the number 7, and he is also versatile, being able to play at hooker or 5/8.

Des
15-05-07, 05:15 PM
All this comes down to is Mel repaying loyalty for last year. Who gives a stuff. Pick the best players in the last twelve months+. This is a team that has been picked on loyalty and we Queenslanders and players are going to pay dearly. Sorry Mel.

jake86
15-05-07, 05:43 PM
Yeeesh....Qld could have had potentially the most dangerous backline since the 80s. Tate? Hunt?

Slater should have been in the side, for tate. Bowen, by far the best Qld FB this season, should be in for hunt. Bell should have been picked on the wing, and Inglis should be given the centre spot.

Not a bad forward pack, but the bench is ordinary. 1 hooker, 3 backrowers? Too small imo. Ross over myles, carlaw over lillyman. If the selectors insist on Hunt at FB, Bowen at least should be in the side ahead of Berrigan.

In saying that, Mal has obviously gone with the players who did the job last year. He has gone with the 'safe' players, rather than form players, and hope this changes for game 2. Unfortunately, this probly means Qld has to lose game 1, in order for the best side to be picked

Capital_Shark
15-05-07, 06:37 PM
I don't know why people haven't seriously considered Monaghan in the number 7 jersey. He orchastrated Manly's start to the season in the number 7, and he is also versatile, being able to play at hooker or 5/8.

I agree. I thought it was glaringly bloody obvious. But then people started saying they don't like to pick blokes out of position, suggesting he is a hooker. Hasler has it wrong, he is the one picking Monoghan out of position. The bloke is a halfback and a damn good one.

Jarrod Mullen is a 5/8 anyway just learning to be a half back. Can't yet drive his own team around the park now is expected to control Origin. For his sake I hope his forwards aim up. We've heard of trial by media, this is selection by media.

Chaos
15-05-07, 09:02 PM
How can a guy like Mat Bowen, who steps two defenders with the one step, is overlooked for the QLD team?

I put it down to the lack of 'coaching ability' to coach an unpridictable player.
Dean Widders touched on this a few weeks back, straight after the Merrit comments and I agree with him.
The rep coaches don't know how to use these types of players and therefore don't want them in their side.
I bet Mal and the selectors couldn't come up with a plan with Bowen on the bench because they didn't know what position to bring him on as.
Lets not predit how the game will unfold before kick off...have a basic structure, watch and adjust during the game.
Bring Bowen on when you see a weekness in the Blues at the back of a half.

Steelers
15-05-07, 09:52 PM
How can a guy like Mat Bowen, who steps two defenders with the one step, is overlooked for the QLD team?

I put it down to the lack of 'coaching ability' to coach an unpridictable player.
Dean Widders touched on this a few weeks back, straight after the Merrit comments and I agree with him.
The rep coaches don't know how to use these types of players and therefore don't want them in their side.
I bet Mal and the selectors couldn't come up with a plan with Bowen on the bench because they didn't know what position to bring him on as.
Lets not predit how the game will unfold before kick off...have a basic structure, watch and adjust during the game.
Bring Bowen on when you see a weekness in the Blues at the back of a half.

Honestly, I don't even think the coaches would need to do much with Matty. All you would have to do is send him out there, and let him do what he does week in week out with JT. Nsw wouldn't stand a chance at the back end of the halves!

Titanium_BD1103
15-05-07, 09:52 PM
QLD have made this a much tighter battle by sticking with the tried and tested.

Bowen, Slater and to a lesser extent Cronk are very unlucky not to be there, and I think QLD will suffer not having them there, even on the bench.

As for NSW, well that side has questions too, not sure how Tupou got in there and not sure how Bird or Gallen missed out, but other than that, it's a solid side with Mullen having a chance to shine with a less playmaking 5/8th in Anasta beside him.

I am liking the look of NSW for this one, big underdogs but in all honesty, nothing to lose, everything to gain... :)

Chaos
15-05-07, 10:49 PM
Honestly, I don't even think the coaches would need to do much with Matty. All you would have to do is send him out there, and let him do what he does week in week out with JT. Nsw wouldn't stand a chance at the back end of the halves!


That's my point...but you ask a coach how they would play him from the bench and they'll start complicating things by thinking about what player will replace him.
They won't want to pull Hunt, Smith or Thurston from the field and then get confused as who they would take off.

Not enough coaches create opportunities to make decisions after kick off.

Queenslander
16-05-07, 11:31 AM
Referee & Co. has been added to the first post:

Referee: Paul Simpkins
Sideline Officials: Steve Carrall and Russell Turner
Video Referee's: Bill Harrigan & Tim Mander
Standby Referee: Shayne Hayne

Capital_Shark
16-05-07, 02:49 PM
That's my point...but you ask a coach how they would play him from the bench and they'll start complicating things by thinking about what player will replace him.
They won't want to pull Hunt, Smith or Thurston from the field and then get confused as who they would take off.

Not enough coaches create opportunities to make decisions after kick off.

Crap - they've obviously got Berrigan there to come on at some stage in some position. And maybe the only bloke who does know how to coach Bowen is in charge of the other team. Not that I think thats the case. I highly doubt Bowen got selected and Meninga and co said "bugger that, I dunno what to do with him."

At rep level you don't have to coach players in how to play, they wouldn't be there if they needed that much hand holding ffs. You get the blokes to gel and throw up a game plan and maybe some set moves. Any first grade coaches (most if not all of who are former players) and their coaching staff have the ability to gauge how a game is going, when it looks like we are or could gain the upper hand, throw in a Bowen off the bench to replace whoever Berrigan was gonna.

Coaster
16-05-07, 03:22 PM
The problem lies with how Hagen coached Queensland and how he used Bowen.

In 2005 he was determined to use Bowen at Hooker, and defend him on the wing, all that did was when the game was in the arm wrestle, he took off Smith who was one of our best defenders, Put on Bowen to defend on the wing, and made our allready tired forwards compensate for being 1 main defender down.

As our forwards slowly got ground into the dirt, Johns reaked havoc on us.

In todays game you just cannot be a main defender down, so IMO either Bowen plays at fullback, or he doesnt make the squad.

He could still play as a utility, but when he came on, you would have to slide Hunt into Lock, and Bowen to the back.

Des
16-05-07, 06:10 PM
Is there anyway that we can send any or all of these comments to the QRL? Surely someone there has to sit up and take notice of the fans opinions. Then again if they are anything like channel 9 they wont give a stuff about Queenslanders opinions.

Cowboy Titan
16-05-07, 06:37 PM
Is there anyway that we can send any or all of these comments to the QRL? Surely someone there has to sit up and take notice of the fans opinions. Then again if they are anything like channel 9 they wont give a stuff about Queenslanders opinions.

QRL Head Office

http://qrl.com.au/page_images/qonly_sm.gifLevel 1, Gabba Towers
411 Vulture Street
WOOLLOONGABBA Q 4102
PO Box 434
STONES CORNER Q 4120


Website: www.qrl.com.au (http://qrl.com.au/)
Email: rugbyleague@qrl.com.au (rugbyleague@qrl.com.au)

Tamwelg
16-05-07, 06:53 PM
Source www.foxsports.com.au


Johnson cleared for Origin

May 16, 2007

QUEENSLAND lock Dallas Johnson has been cleared to play next week's State of Origin match against New South Wales at Suncorp Stadium after successfully having a careless high tackle charge downgraded at the Judiciary.

Johnson escaped suspension after his representatives ? Melbourne assistant coach Dean Lance and Queensland coach Mal Meninga ? convinced the panel of Mal Cochrane, Royce Ayliffe and Scott Tronc to downgrade his grade two charge to a grade one.

Johnson pleaded guilty to the high shot on Bulldog Reni Maitua on Monday night, but got the charge downgraded because he was not looking at the target when contact was made with Maitua's head and it wasn't an intentional attempt to injure the player.

Lance argued that Johnson's tackle was less severe than previous grade two careless high tackle charges handed out to Bulldog Willie Mason and Wests Tiger Jamaal Lolesi last season because in this instance the player tackled still had the ball.

Ironically, Lolesi's tackle was on Johnson.

Prosecutor Peter Kite said Johnson cannot get a reprieve because his contact was directly with the head and that his upcoming representative honour is no reason for leniency.

However, the panel decided to downgrade the charge and free Johnson to play in next week's Origin clash.

Johnson did not speak to the panel or the media tonight, but Meninga said it was a huge relief and a bonus for the Maroons.

"Very pleased. I think Dallas deserved that. We had a fair hearing obviously and we can get on with preparations now with Dallas Johnson in the side so we are extremely pleased," said Meninga.

"He is a very integral part of our footy side and all the boys are waiting with baited breath up in Toowoomba at the moment so hopefully they can get the message shortly and there'll be a fair few cheers up in Toowoomba that's for sure."

AAP

Robbie_Dee
16-05-07, 07:13 PM
Fantastic news!!!

Tamwelg
16-05-07, 07:14 PM
Fantastic news!!!

certainly is :D

Capital_Shark
16-05-07, 07:33 PM
Lyon also got off on a technicality so he'll be playing for NSW.

TITAN PETE
16-05-07, 10:24 PM
As a Blues fan i'm extremely happy to see Bowen & Slater playing for their clubs this weekend & not Origin but i almost choked when i read that someone thought Carlaw should be in the side just what Qld really need another out of form Bronco lucky the Qld selectors didn't think the same.
Nsw team should have had Stewart ,Lafranchi & Lewis in the squad.

Titanium_BD1103
16-05-07, 10:36 PM
Lyon also got off on a technicality so he'll be playing for NSW.

Yes he did, which was a rather strange one, but heh, I'll take it, no one really lost out tonight and football won, a strange rarity in the game these days... :)

From: www.foxsports.com.au

Lyon is let off the hook

By Josh Massoud
May 16, 2007

JAMIE Lyon was last night cleared to play for New South Wales - but will have to wait until this morning to ring Eric Grothe Jr and thank him for his help.

In support of Lyon's quest to beat a dangerous throw charge and play in next Wednesday's series opener, Grothe was to be cross-examined over the phone at last night's hearing.


But in an unexpected twist on a crucial hearing for the Blues, the errant Parramatta star had his phone switched off when Lyon's counsel attempted to summon him to give evidence.


Luckily for NSW, Lyon will join Queensland lock Dallas Johnson - also cleared to play last night - after escaping on a technicality despite the fact Grothe could not be raised.


To the astonishment of the panel, a female with a slight English accent answered Grothe's mobile as Lyon dialled for corroborating evidence on the judiciary's speaker phone.


"The Vodafone you have called is switched off," the voice said.
"Please try again later."


It was not the first time in Grothe's career that he had gone missing in action - the winger also turned up late and worse for wear to last season's City team camp.


But there was hangover for Lyon last night.


Thanks to some swift legal argument from his counsel Geoff Bellew SC, Lyon was freed to play after a glitch was exposed in the charge.
After being convinced Lyon did not lift Grothe - as per the particulars of the charge - the three-man panel had no option but to dismiss the case and declare the Manly centre free to play.


"It's big and I can't wait to get out there," Lyon said.
"I was confident without being over confident - still at the bottom of your gut you are a bit worried."


Had he known Grothe's mobile phone would get cold feet, Lyon might well have been more nervous.


Grothe did submit a statement to the panel suggesting he was not lifted by Lyon.


But NRL counsel Peter Kite quickly pointed out Grothe's inability to give supporting oral evidence at the hearing reduced the significance of his written statement.


Ironically, had Lyon been unsuccessful Grothe was rated an even-money chance to be drafted into the backline.


"Unfortunately we couldn't get hold of him, but he made a statement which was very good of him and I thank him for it," Lyon said.


Grothe remained unavailable for comment late last night.


Kite had earlier argued the charge should be upheld because Lyon had used his body as a "fulcrum" to place Grothe into a dangerous position. But Bellew pointed out that Lyon's charge specified a dangerous throw generated from a conventional "lift" rather than leverage.


Judiciary chairman Greg Wood effectively agreed with Bellew, directing the panel: "Unless there's evidence that one of the players on Mr Lyon's team lifted Mr Grothe in the normal sense of the word, then the case is not made out."

(http://www.dailytelegraph.news.com.au/?from=ni_story%22)



As you can see, Lyon got off because Grothe didn't answer the phone so they had no evidence against him besides video footage that was called by the ref inconclusive... lucky Jamie should thank Eric tomorrow... Eric just got him an origin spot.. :)

Chaos
16-05-07, 11:45 PM
Crap - they've obviously got Berrigan there to come on at some stage in some position. And maybe the only bloke who does know how to coach Bowen is in charge of the other team. Not that I think thats the case. I highly doubt Bowen got selected and Meninga and co said "bugger that, I dunno what to do with him."

At rep level you don't have to coach players in how to play, they wouldn't be there if they needed that much hand holding ffs. You get the blokes to gel and throw up a game plan and maybe some set moves. Any first grade coaches (most if not all of who are former players) and their coaching staff have the ability to gauge how a game is going, when it looks like we are or could gain the upper hand, throw in a Bowen off the bench to replace whoever Berrigan was gonna.

Capital Shark,
Nobody said that Bowen was selected and Meninga interfered. The selectors obviuosly couldn't get thier heads around it also.

Don't try and tell me the selectors didn't consider Bowen (even though they believe he was a better player then most of the other players picked)
They just didn't know how to use him off the bench.

Coaster,
You also came up with a single plan to play Bowen.
I don't think we would need to...I could think of ten ways to put him on the field but we just don't know how the game will pan out.
The utility player or back picked on the bench is there for any injuries. How can we predict who will get hurt?

Cowboy Titan
17-05-07, 07:13 AM
Bailey happy flyers snubbed
http://www.townsvillebulletin.com.au...868_sport.html (http://www.townsvillebulletin.com.au/article/2007/05/17/2868_sport.html)

Bailey happy flyers snubbed

17May07

NEW South Wales prop Luke Bailey believes Queensland selectors have made a big mistake snubbing electrifying fullbacks Matt Bowen and Billy Slater for next week's opening State of Origin clash.

Incumbent Test fullback Karmichael Hunt has been handed the custodian role for Origin I in Brisbane on Wednesday, causing plenty of debate among rugby league fans who will be denied the opportunity to see excitement machines Bowen and Slater showcase their sublime skills in the game's toughest arena.

Bailey, disappointed to be playing off the bench rather than starting for the Blues, can't understand why the talented duo were snubbed in a Maroons backline brimming with talent.

"They've got a dangerous backline but all of them aren't 100 per cent fit so that's a good advantage for us," Gold Coast co-captain Bailey said.

"Not having Matt Bowen and Billy Slater in the side is another bonus for us.

"You knew it was coming but for their sakes you hoped they made it.

"They're two of the most gifted players in the game but unfortunately (the Queensland selectors) have gone with the skilful and defensive centres and wingers, the bigger fellas."

The Blues have traditionally picked robust backs who won't be a liability in defence and this year is no different, with the likes of Matt King, Jamie Lyon, Braith Anasta and debutant Jarryd Hayne getting the nod.

But Bailey is surprised selectors from both camps have been reluctant to pick smaller players, who have proven they aren't turnstiles in defence in the NRL, for Origin I.

"I think it's amazing because the game is that intense and hard for the first 40 or 50 minutes, I'd prefer to have little blokes on my side trying to create yards around the ruck when the forwards are tired," Bailey commented.

Maroons chairman of selectors Des Morris said plenty of time was spent debating the possible inclusions of Bowen and Slater in the selection room before the Maroons team was announced.

"We would love to be able to fit Billy and Matty in somewhere but we just can't do it within the team structure we have planned," Morris said.

Queenslander
17-05-07, 12:59 PM
White says he's public enemy No.1

By Josh Massoud
May 17, 2007

STRAIGHT-shooting New South Wales rookie Brett White has declared himself "Queensland public enemy No.1" after provoking the ire of fearsome Petero Civoniceva.

Still simmering after White questioned Brisbane's forwards earlier this month, Civoniceva has challenged the Origin tyro "to back it up" on Wednesday night.

But despite entering his first NSW camp yesterday, the 25-year-old last night steeled himself for the fire that awaits in the Suncorp cauldron.

"I'm fully aware that I'll be going up to Queensland as public enemy No.1," White said. "It's a big thing that my first game in Origin is in the front row and I'll have the biggest target on my forehead."

Expecting Civoniceva to lead the Maroons forwards on a seek-and-destroy mission for his scalp, White is primed for the challenge.

"I certainly hope to gain some respect from him," the Storm enforcer said.

"Everyone speaks highly of him."

The feud between the 110kg behemoths was ignited when White claimed the Brisbane pack had lost its notorious sting as Melbourne savoured grand final revenge.

"In the past, every time you took the ball up there was a wall of blokes trying to bash you," White said after Melbourne beat Brisbane 28-18 in round seven.

"It wasn't there ... there were a few smaller players out there and you could run at different blokes without worry."

Asked if he now regretted the infamous comments ahead of an earlier-than-expected rematch with Civoniceva, White said: "I certainly didn't mean it the way it came out.

"I didn't mean any disrespect. It wasn't aimed at him.

"There was a big hole with Shane Webcke (retired) and they were missing Tonie Carroll.

"Any team missing those two blokes is going to have a big hole there. But what's said is said.

"I guess it's good for the game in a way but it doesn't help me.

"It's going to make my task harder on Wednesday night."

When first told of White's barb, Civoniceva responded: "I don't really rate him."

And although the Maroons veteran has since softened on his opinion of White, Civoniceva has made no secret of his desire to square up.

"If he's in my sights, I'm not going to miss," he said this week.

White's NSW front-row partner Luke Bailey, however, is assured the debutant can handle a torrid outing first up.

Bailey, who mentored White when the pair were with St George Illawarra, last night said his former teammate was "made for this game".

"He's a hard-head and he'll probably play one of his best games in the first game because he loves the tough stuff," the Gold Coast prop said.

"I remember the days holding the pads and the young blokes run into you. He did it full bore.

"I knew he was a hard man. I'm sure he'll love it and if someone says something he'll return serve.

"Petero said they've got the target on him. If you are at home and reading the paper you sort of lick your lips. These clashes are going to inspire the game."

The Daily Telegraph

basilisk
17-05-07, 01:37 PM
i thought id put it out there that Todd Carney has been one of the form halves in league playing with the Canberra Raiders. How come he did not get a look in at the 5/8th position (or even half as he's played a couple of games there -just like MULLEN)? I think Anasta is overrated and that Carney would be a much preferred option. I hope Anasta goes well on Wednesday to prove me wrong, but i am still of the belief that Carney is one of the most gifted, talented and form 5/8's in the league atm.

Future Star
17-05-07, 02:58 PM
Yes he did, which was a rather strange one, but heh, I'll take it, no one really lost out tonight and football won, a strange rarity in the game these days... :)
....


As you can see, Lyon got off because Grothe didn't answer the phone so they had no evidence against him besides video footage that was called by the ref inconclusive... lucky Jamie should thank Eric tomorrow... Eric just got him an origin spot.. :)

No.
he got off becuase the charge was mis-worded as a lifting offense when he went in for the hearing.

and seeing as he didnt lift Mr Grothe, the Panel had no choice but to let My Lyon get off free ;)

Future Star
17-05-07, 03:00 PM
i thought id put it out there that Todd Carney has been one of the form halves in league playing with the Canberra Raiders. How come he did not get a look in at the 5/8th position (or even half as he's played a couple of games there -just like MULLEN)? I think Anasta is overrated and that Carney would be a much preferred option. I hope Anasta goes well on Wednesday to prove me wrong, but i am still of the belief that Carney is one of the most gifted, talented and form 5/8's in the league atm.

i agree.

He and Mullen have also played together before in the Junior 'Roos team, it would of been a great halves-pairing imo.

also, Gidley should've been full-back ;)

Steelers
17-05-07, 03:14 PM
Schifty will back this statement up I am sure :p If you play in Canberra, don't expect any representative positions, especially in the NSW team.

Future Star
17-05-07, 03:21 PM
Schifty will back this statement up I am sure :p If you play in Canberra, don't expect any representative positions, especially in the NSW team.

Yeah... i know this.

but still.
he should be there...

Capital_Shark
17-05-07, 03:28 PM
Schifty will back this statement up I am sure :p If you play in Canberra, don't expect any representative positions, especially in the NSW team.

Yeah, imagine if NSW had of picked blokes like Ricky Stuart, Laurie Daley, Brad Clyde, Brett Mullins, Dave Furner... oh hold on..

I really don't think its a massive bias toward any team. Players miss out - simple as that. I think NSW gambled with 1 youngster in the halves, putting Carney along side Mullen could have gotten very ugly. Let these blokes grow into great club players before forcing them onto be great State reps before their 22nd birthday.

basilisk
17-05-07, 03:58 PM
i agree that they should not have picked Mullen and Carney, i think they shoulda went with Carney and an experienced player. OR at least mentioned Carney's name somewhere in contention for the spot! -coz he deserves it!

Capital_Shark
17-05-07, 04:43 PM
Thats the problem though mate, NSW aren't as gifted for experienced and capable halves. Imagine if Prince and Cronk were blues, they'd walk into the team but struggle to get a look in at QLD.

DIEHARD
17-05-07, 05:01 PM
Turns out my brother some how got tickets to this match.

So I might be going, if I decide to.

Capital_Shark
17-05-07, 05:54 PM
Turns out my brother some how got tickets to this match.

So I might be going, if I decide to.

I'm sure that'll be a horrendous decision to make to...

Queenslander
17-05-07, 06:08 PM
Veteran Marksman Upstages Young Bucks

http://www.qrl.com.au/images_lib/SteveWaltersArmy.jpg

THE XXXX Queensland Maroons State of Origin team has been upstaged by manager Steve 'Boxhead' Walters at today's weapons firing exercise at Enoggera Army Barracks.

Walters, who played 14 games for the Maroons between 1990-96, scored a squad-high 106mm on the Weapons Training Simulation System (WTSS).

The figure of 106mm describes the average 'group' size of the participants' shots, taken after four lots of five-round bursts.

"Any figure below 200mm is considered an acceptable score for the activity," noted Warrant Officer Class Two Graham McBean.

"Steve's score of 106 is actually quite good. Any soldier would be happy with that.?

Prop Petero Civoniceva was the lowest scorer of the group, spraying wide for a group average of 384mm.

All players used Steyr rifles, the standard issue small arms of the Australian Defence Force.



www.qrl.com.au

DIEHARD
17-05-07, 06:25 PM
Wow, go Steve!

We are really preparing our boys for war, no fooling with letting them training with automatic rifles!

I'd love to see a full print out of team scores.

Queenslander
17-05-07, 06:27 PM
Wow, go Steve!

We are really preparing our boys for war, no fooling with letting them training with automatic rifles!

I'd love to see a full print out of team scores.


I hear the target was Phil Gould..... ;) (not really)

Queenslander
17-05-07, 07:47 PM
Lockyer has first run on injured ankle

Thursday, May 17, 2007 - 7:34 PM

Champion playmaker Darren Lockyer took his first steps towards playing Wednesday night's State of Origin opener, running on his injured ankle 24 hours ahead of schedule.

On a rough, dry football field at Brisbane's Enoggera Gallipoli Barracks, Queensland's No.1 player tested out his right ankle in a 20 minute solo session closely watched by team doctor Roy Saunders and physiotherapist Scott Thornton.

All eyes were on Lockyer who ran at half pace in straight lines, stopping mid-session to have his ankle strapped.

When he finished, his still deeply bruised and slightly swollen ankle was immediately wrapped in an ice bag.

All going well, Lockyer could train with the team on Friday although that step could be delayed until the weekend should the team's medical staff feel it's too risky.

Centre Justin Hodges trained with his troublesome knee heavily strapped but was confident it would be right in six days time.

It was a good 24 hours for Queensland with lock Dallas Johnson giving the camp a massive fillip Wednesday night when his grade two careless high tackle charge was down graded to enable him to play on Wednesday night.

When the news was relayed to the team, on their way to a dinner in Toowoomba following a fan day on Wednesday, players cheered and clapped in the bus.

"Dallas is such a big part of the side and to have him cleared to play is a big boost to the team," said teammate Jacob Lillyman.

"Talking to him yesterday he wasn't all that confident. He was definitely worried about it but everyone's happy with the result."

Almost 3,000 fans turned out at Toowoomba's Clive Berghofer Stadium to see the Queensland team and the players stayed back until 7pm to sign autographs.

The players' shirts were auctioned at a special dinner which raised close to $20,000 for South West Rugby League.

Surprisingly, Johnathan Thurston's shirt pulled the biggest bid of the night at $3,100, some $500 more than Lockyer's.

The players sharpened their sights on Thursday with some target practice at the army barracks using bullet-less assault rifles operated by laser sightings.

Team manager and former Queensland and Australian hooker Steve Walters proved the best shot.

His grouping would have easily qualified him for the infantry according to Warrant Officer, Graham McBean.

Prop Petero Civoniceva didn't fare quite so well and will have to save his best for the battlefield of Suncorp Stadium.

Fullback Karmichael Hunt will be in the Blues' sights on Wednesday night but the 20 year-old said he expected to be targeted defensively and by the NSW kickers.

"You expect it in NRL and it's going to be a tough enough challenge bringing the ball back in Origin," said Hunt, who has recovered from a minor knee injury.

Source: AAP

tom91
17-05-07, 08:28 PM
why wasnt rogers picked in the QLD side,,hes playing awsome,,i would love to see him come back to origin that would be so kool

Tamwelg
17-05-07, 09:24 PM
why wasnt rogers picked in the QLD side,,hes playing awsome,,i would love to see him come back to origin that would be so kool

He made himself unavailable for Origin selection.

Queenslander
18-05-07, 07:45 AM
Bootless camp for captain

Steve Ricketts

May 18, 2007 12:00am
Article from: The Courier-Mail

WATCHED, wrapped, checked, iced ? this is how Queensland's most precious supporting asset is protected.

http://www.news.com.au/common/imagedata/0,,5489159,00.jpg

Darren Lockyer's right ankle might be the most valuable piece of property north of the border for the attention it is getting.

Yesterday, the Maroons skipper turned out for a training run at Brisbane's Enoggera Army Barracks. Within minutes of reaching the end of the field, a team of experts had swarmed to the end of his leg.

Lockyer will be given until match eve on Tuesday to prove his fitness but the signs are good he will be fit to lead the defence of the State of Origin title.

Queensland coach Mal Meninga said: "He might not stretch out tomorrow or the next day or even the day after. But we'll give him the time he requires."

The Courier Mail

Queenslander
18-05-07, 08:09 AM
Great news for Rugby League.....Game One will be screened LIVE into Melbourne!

Steelers
18-05-07, 02:07 PM
I just happened to watch a bit of the AFL Footy Show last night (I was up doing a school assignment, and I forgot to change the channel after the REAL Footy Show) and it was great to see them give the game a plug. Hopefully the game get's alot of people in Victoria tuning in.

DIEHARD
18-05-07, 02:09 PM
LIVE into Melbourne, now we are talking, another benefit of taking a game there last year.

Too bad there is no Billy Slater, but let's hope for a good showing from the Storm boys for the Melbourne audience!

Future Star
20-05-07, 09:21 PM
3 Sleeps

Countdown!

Poida
21-05-07, 06:29 AM
Maroons by 24 :D
Go the Maroons :)

Ryan
21-05-07, 07:59 AM
I just saw on tv that Carl Webb is in doubt with hamstring injury......

Steelers
21-05-07, 08:24 AM
I just saw on tv that Carl Webb is in doubt with hamstring injury......

With Antonio Kaufusi being rushed into the squad as backup.

Queenslander
21-05-07, 07:53 PM
Next 24 Hours Crucial for Carl

XXXX QUEENSLAND Maroons forward Carl Webb has been given a further 24 hours to prove his fitness ahead of Wednesday?s opening match in the Harvey Norman State of Origin series.

Webb, who injured his hamstring in training run late Sunday afternoon, underwent magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) tests this evening, Monday May 21 in Brisbane.

Maroons Coach Mal Meninga has consulted with team physician Dr Roy Saunders regarding the results and elected to wait another day before giving a final decision on the 26-year-old.

Bundaberg?s Antonio Kaufusi is the stand-by player.

www.qrl.com.au

Boofhead
22-05-07, 02:00 AM
Hope Webb is fit.

Webb vs. Bailey. Bull needs some revenge. :P

Queenslander
22-05-07, 09:54 AM
Kaufusi to Debut - Webb Ruled Out

BUNDABERG?S Antonio Kaufusi is set to make his XXXX Queensland Maroons debut, following the withdrawal of forward Carl Webb this morning.


A day out from the Harvey Norman State of Origin opener at Brisbane?s Suncorp Stadium, Webb has been ruled out with a hamstring injury.

The 26-year-old underwent a brief fitness test this morning, following MRI scans yesterday evening.

Webb will return to Townsville to receive treatment for the injury within the next 48 hours, maximising his odds of recovering for the remainder of the Origin series.

His withdrawal presents an opportunity for 190cm, 112kg forward Kaufusi, raised in the same city where Maroons coach Mal Meninga was born.

Kaufusi 26, is a Bundaberg Brothers junior who played 50 games in the Queensland Wizard Cup for the Norths Devils prior to becoming a fulltime member of the Melbourne Storm.

QRL

Queenslander
23-05-07, 11:25 AM
Today is the day!

GO QUEENSLAND!

Capital_Shark
23-05-07, 12:44 PM
Today is the day!

GO QUEENSLAND!



Indeed it is! Under 6hrs till kick off. Can't wait!

Old Diehard
23-05-07, 12:47 PM
6 hrs and 20mins----to the most important day on the football calander!!!!
The day when I can't be accused of maddness for my disdain of Sydney and all that eminates from it!

HAPPY STATE OF ORIGIN DAY EVERBODY!!!

Queenslander
23-05-07, 01:12 PM
Carlaw called up for Origin

May 23, 2007 10:21am
Article from: The Courier-Mail

BRONCO Dane Carlaw has been called up to bolster Maroon ranks in tonight's Origin clash.

Queensland Rugby League annnounced this morning that Carlaw had been called into the Maroons camp and would join the team around lunchtime.

This morning, he training commitments with the Brisbane Broncos.

A QRL statement said Carlaw's "place in the squad is merely to cover for any unforseen injuries in warm-ups etc".

"There is nobody in doubt for the game at this late stage."

Old Diehard
23-05-07, 03:42 PM
3hrs 25mins (baring Channel 9 delaying the kick-off for adverts- they have the authority!)
Whoppee Happy State of Origin Day!

This game is the most important game of season! Bar none- win this and go 1 up is the most important thing in LIFE!

Hoppy2007Dragons
23-05-07, 03:50 PM
Well i'm off to the train station, i'm pumped this game will be unreal, go the blues make it aphysical contest i love nothing more than big hits and solid tackles.

Old Diehard
23-05-07, 03:55 PM
hope He comes home after the game a Unhoppy NSW fan!

2hrs 15mis- Hope the Qld U19s' are belting the living daylights out NSW right now just to start things off in the right vain!

Steelers
23-05-07, 08:13 PM
Tate - Drop him to play for Aspley where he belongs FFS. He has nothing. KHunt has had nothing as well, just been doing what he always does, running up to the defence and getting smashed. I have been impressed with Carroll, I didn't want him to be picked, but he has played well. Mullen has been bloody quiet, with only a couple of touches here and there resulting in anything. Referee is dodgy as always, but since when has that not been a factor... Jarrad Hayne, what can I say, you are the Australian winger for many years to come with that sort of effort.

Future Star
23-05-07, 09:05 PM
well... damn...

Mullen's kicks were horrible, almost all of them got Hunt on the full...

nflin3
23-05-07, 09:09 PM
Take That Nsw!!!!

25-18 :) :) :)

;p

Future Star
23-05-07, 09:12 PM
Take That Nsw!!!!

25-18 :) :) :)

;p

well....well waht if we dont want to take it!

Tamwelg
23-05-07, 09:16 PM
As expected, Lockyer and Thurston dominated. QLD looked like scoring every time they were in the NSW 20. Thurston man of the match and deserved it.

What a win :D

"QUEENSLANDER" :D

Bailey had a great game for the Blues, he looked to be everywhere and made 41 tackles and 14 hit up for a gain of 125 meters. Well done Bailey, you should be in the run on side.

nflin3
23-05-07, 09:16 PM
well....well waht if we dont want to take it!

Leave it like you left the ball for Lockyer to pick up ;)

basilisk
23-05-07, 09:46 PM
how did S. Price NOT get man of the match!?
he had a most excellent game...crossed the tryline twice (for only one try) and completely dominated in every ruck.

ah well, jonny played well anyway-if i was a women i would be in love.

Jarryd Hayne, WHAT THE...?

Jarrod Mullen.....Why pick him?

Anasta, outstanding for 30minutes, horrible for 50.

Bailey - excellent, but learn to control the ball son!

Tate-loser

K.Hunt....i still prefer bowen

Lockyer - wat more can i say....brilliant -however he did one bad kick in the game showing us all he still is human.... :(

Myles - waste of time n money in roosters jersey n qld didnt need him.

COOPER! never pick players from the bottom of the table (unless its BRISBANE!)

Titanium_BD1103
23-05-07, 10:00 PM
Take That Nsw!!!!

25-18

;p

Wouldn't be getting too over excited just yet... it was Game 1 and only by 7... ;)

Full credit to QLD tonight... they were the more determined to get the win and once again another great QLD fightback which came from Thurston, Lockyer and Price... all of who had stellar games.

NSW were good in large patches, but they made crucial errors like last year that blew their chances. I was so happy to see Hayne get that try before halftime, we needed one for the highlights reel and now we have one... :D

Besides Mullen's kicking game, which I think will improve over time, he had a solid debut...guided the team around and gave them good service. The NSW forwards when they played to plan were the dominant pack... and they had QLD at times at 6's and 7's.... sadly they didn't play at all to plan in the 2nd half.

Hayne was impressive and sadly that little mistake will be what sticks in the minds of fans... the try he scored was freakish and the game plan was well thought out.

If I was QLD, I'd bring in Slater for Tate, sorry Brent but you were about as useful out there as a wet rag... Slater would be much more devastating and help Hodges. I'd also bring in some firepower off the bench as Myles was about as productive as a broken machinery line... and he is also on report.

If I was NSW, I'd bring Gidley in earlier and perhaps shift King to the centres and bring Hazem in on a wing... only because we need to convert opportunities... however Cooper had a good match, can't fault the effort shown there. I'd get all the players to watch Minichiello's effort as he was sensational in defense and attack, and I'd make sure the team knew the stakes and didn't fall asleep and make silly mistakes.

The first game was close, QLD won because NSW let them in the gate, as well as due to some smart thinking... if NSW can improve and so can QLD as we expect they will, this will be one very close series.... and I like the sound of that.. :)

Social Loafer
23-05-07, 10:32 PM
Price missing out on Man Of the Match was a complete farce.

Mullen was selected by the media, showed he isn't ready IMO. Couldn't believe how excited Gould got over that pass that read to the Cooper try, wasn't that great...

Steel Dragon
23-05-07, 10:52 PM
There are 16 blokes wearing Blue who need to be lined up against a wall and dealt with accordingly. The exception is Minichello. A couple of crap decisions against us in the second that led to Queensland scoring plays, but we were already buggered by then. To me, Graham Murray is just not the man to get the Blues fired up and their minds on the job. Bring back Gus or Ricky, neither who'd probably take it, or bring in Craig Bellamy, someone with a bit of passion and desire to win. Maybe even give Sheens another shot 16 years down the track. I remember watching Origin games in the past when Gus was coach and always feeling confident that he knew just how to prepare the Blues players and just what to say to them at halftime. He picks up all the little things in games that demonstrate the correct attitude and are often the difference between success and failure. I just don't have the same feeling of confidence with Muzza. Not really sure why, after all he has turned two clubs from losers into competitive outfits (Steelers and Cowboys).

Congratulations to Queensland, they played well when it mattered, and deserved the win. And believe me, that is hard to type, because right now I feel so gutted and angry and am questioning yet again why I follow this stupid game that seems to want to constantly kick me in the guts. But I'll pull myself up in time for game two, and be screaming once again for the Mighty Blues. After all, there is only one test for a true fan, and that is sticking with them when they lose.

Come on the Telstra Stadium hoodoo!

Jason

Poida
23-05-07, 11:01 PM
:) Great game to watch and well grinded out by the Maroons :D
They showed their true Queensland spirit with keeping the Blues scoreless in 2nd half as well as compiling 19 points themselves. Thurston, Smith, Hunt and Price were the best out there tonight.
Great win :) now to knock them off in game 2 :D

Steelers
23-05-07, 11:08 PM
Notes from the game

- Gidley is not a hooker, he provides absolutely no impact playing hooker for the last 20 minutes of the game
- Jarrad Hayne had a great game, with 1 costly mistake
- Tonie Carroll was surprisingly impressive
- Lillyman and Myles need to go. They shouldn't have been there in the first place and they showed why tonight
- Steve Price deserved MOTM easily. He was our only forward that consistently made metres
- Brent Tate = Useless. Billy Slater on the wing for Game 2
- The game lacked 'excitement', with the only jump out of your seat moment for me being the Hayne try (even though it was for the enemy) and the anti-Hayne try :p
- Berrigan did nothing
- Lockyer took a backseat role with his halves partner JT for the first time I think
- Mullen = Overrated. He is not an Origin halfback, and I have no idea why Gould and Rabs were creaming over his pass to set up the try. If any halfback playing first grade footy couldn't make that pass I don't think they deserve to be playing first grade
- Braith was on fire, then disappeared
- Brett White didn't get much of a go on debut, which was disappointing
- Bailey had a solid game, made some good runs, but made 1 or 2 errors
- Karmichael Hunt = Boring to watch and an average player. He only looks like he is good when Lockyer is making him look good IMO. Other than finishing Locky's hard work, all he does is catch the ball, run it back, and get smashed by 2 or 3 defenders. We need someone who can create opportunities from the back, not someone who runs and gets smashed, handing the advantage to the opposition

Poida
23-05-07, 11:23 PM
Notes from the game

- Gidley is not a hooker, he provides absolutely no impact playing hooker for the last 20 minutes of the game
- Jarrad Hayne had a great game, with 1 costly mistake
- Tonie Carroll was surprisingly impressive
- Lillyman and Myles need to go. They shouldn't have been there in the first place and they showed why tonight
- Steve Price deserved MOTM easily. He was our only forward that consistently made metres
- Brent Tate = Useless. Billy Slater on the wing for Game 2
- The game lacked 'excitement', with the only jump out of your seat moment for me being the Hayne try (even though it was for the enemy) and the anti-Hayne try :p
- Berrigan did nothing
- Lockyer took a backseat role with his halves partner JT for the first time I think
- Mullen = Overrated. He is not an Origin halfback, and I have no idea why Gould and Rabs were creaming over his pass to set up the try. If any halfback playing first grade footy couldn't make that pass I don't think they deserve to be playing first grade
- Braith was on fire, then disappeared
- Brett White didn't get much of a go on debut, which was disappointing
- Bailey had a solid game, made some good runs, but made 1 or 2 errors
- Karmichael Hunt = Boring to watch and an average player. He only looks like he is good when Lockyer is making him look good IMO. Other than finishing Locky's hard work, all he does is catch the ball, run it back, and get smashed by 2 or 3 defenders. We need someone who can create opportunities from the back, not someone who runs and gets smashed, handing the advantage to the opposition
So who would you go with? Id probably take Billy Slater :)

DIEHARD
23-05-07, 11:31 PM
Wow what another historic Queensland come back! I love breaking those Blues hearts!!!

Slater in for Tate, Price should have been MOM...Hunt out for Bowen but that isn't going to happen. Inglis was fantastic, the Storm need to move him, he isn't a 5/8th, sure he has the skill to play there but it isn't his natural position.

Mullen had a decent game and he has a big future, I rate him. Watch him take this rep experience back to the Knights. Mini was great and he is one of the great rugby league players in the game at the moment, I am in awe of him and I fear him when he takes the field against my teams.

I need to catch some zzzzs. We did it guys! We won Origin 1! Historically vital especially when the next game is at Telstra Stadium, our hoodoo ground, but we'll just disregard that, it doesn't have wood on us, it's just a ridiculous statistic.

I got so many SMSs from Blues at half time, saying the trophy was coming back where it belonged in NSW, the greatest state in the world....let's just say I enjoyed replying.

Will these Blues ever learn to never count out Queenslanders?

Coaster
23-05-07, 11:38 PM
Anyone saying Hunt was anything but impressive is a nothing more then a lacky that has no inside knowledge of a game of football then a winger commenting on a fowards play.

Sometimes people cloud there judgement with bias outside political ideas, sometimes you need to look at what got you where you are, before commenting on how we did it.

Queenslander
24-05-07, 07:03 AM
QUEENSLANDER!!!!!!!!!!!

Great game for the boys. Price was the MOM in my books. All the Queenslander's played well however I would expect some changes most probably Crocker and Webb in and even possibly Slater in for Tate. However the selectors will most probably be loyal to Tate for the next one.

Now to the ref. Well the real score should have been a bit different (My calculation 31-12)

The first NSW try wasn't a try. There was no evidence of a grounding and a forward pass. An it absolutely ****s me that when a try is in doubt to NSW they go to an ad break and don't show many replays........

Steve Price should have had two tries last night. The "forward" pass was less forward than the first NSW try. Lucky again that Queensland had one else they would be coping it this morning.

http://www.smh.com.au/ffximage/2007/05/23/260_queenslandnsw.jpg<- Great Photo

jenny
24-05-07, 08:31 AM
Congratulations To All Maroon Supporters:) :(

Hoppy2007Dragons
24-05-07, 01:56 PM
Gutted over the result but it was awesome to watch live.

Can't wait till game 2 NSW have a lot to prove.


COOPER! never pick players from the bottom of the table

He had a good game, made some good defensive reads and worked hard out of dummyhalf, id say he did more than Tate and Bell.

DIEHARD
24-05-07, 03:28 PM
Exactly, time to focus on another challenge, winning at Telstra!

I can't believe we never have...what a disadvantage in State of Origin. We need to break this curse.

Robbie_Dee
24-05-07, 04:20 PM
Exactly, time to focus on another challenge, winning at Telstra!

I can't believe we never have...what a disadvantage in State of Origin. We need to break this curse.Hasn't QLD ever won at Telstra????

My god that is ridiculous!!! I honestly didn't know that!

This is the year!

DIEHARD
24-05-07, 04:27 PM
358,000 watched the game in Melbourne.

Capital_Shark
24-05-07, 04:56 PM
Anyone saying Hunt was anything but impressive is a nothing more then a lacky that has no inside knowledge of a game of football then a winger commenting on a fowards play.

Sometimes people cloud there judgement with bias outside political ideas, sometimes you need to look at what got you where you are, before commenting on how we did it.

Thanks for saving me the time typing something similar. Hunt was a champ.

Obviously Tate was rubbish, my dog could do a better job and IMO has a nicer collar. Slater to wing for game 2.

Bell carried his 2007 round-to-round form into SOO with a VERY quiet game. Find a new centre for game 2, or a winger and move Inglis in.

Myles and Lillyman were a waste of time. Hope Webb is right for game 2. Keep Kafusi and think about Ross or someone.

Jarrod Mullen proved why journos aren't selectors. No mistakes but with a lock at 5/8 your half has to fire. Don't drop him now though it could bugger the kids year, or career.

Nice to see Brett Whites comments throughout the week converted into an 80 minute nose bleed on the second hit up of the match. Welcome to SOO, son.

Social Loafer
24-05-07, 05:00 PM
Loved seeing the Costigan Fend on Mullen. Carney would have been a perfect option for game 2, give Mullen a real 5/8 instead of an over rated hack who plays for the c*ck..

Sadly that isn't a possibility now...

Queenslander
24-05-07, 05:16 PM
Origin betting frenzy sets record


May 24, 2007

PUNTERS went on a betting frenzy on last night's State of Origin game with one bookmaking outlet holding a record $3.4 million on the result.

TAB Sportsbet reported a record splurge with $2.7 million invested by punters on the day of the game and a turnover increase of almost 20 per cent on game one last year.

Playing the decider in Melbourne last year and the involvement of a number of Storm stars saw investment from Victorian punters double.

Most bookies were licking their wounds today with all favourite options saluting after Queensland stormed home from 18-6 down at half time to ton 25-18.

Queensland wing Greg Inglis, who had Victorian punters cheering, dealt bookies the first body blow scoring the opening try after firming from $11 into $8.

Halfback Johnathan Thurston delivered the knockout punch taking man-of-the match honours as $4.50 favourite with TAB Sportsbet.

?It?s the most punters have bet on an Origin game in our history,? said TAB Sportsbet?s Glenn Munsie.

Another big bookie, Sportingbet Australia, took a $50,000 bet on Queensland just hours before kick off but got some back on half-time betting when they held $100,000 on the Blues who came in from $1.50 to $1.30 with a 12-point lead.

One client who thought NSW were home dropped $40,000 when Queensland scored 19 unanswered points in the second half.

Gerard Daffy from Lasseters said bookmakers would be suffering today after Queensland delivered for punters.

?Like most bookies we got taken to the cleaners with every favourite option,? said Daffy, feeling as battered as some of the Blues players today.

?One of the worst result was Johnathan Thurston for man of the match,? Daffy said.

Daffy said Queensland?s inability to win in 11 attempts at Telstra Stadium would see NSW favourites for Origin II.

?NSW will be favourites, but there won?t be much in it,? he said.

AAP

Capital_Shark
24-05-07, 06:42 PM
He went that-a-way
May 24, 2007

Inspirational Queensland skipper Darren Lockyer always leads from the front.
Luckily, there was at least one moment last night when his teammates didn't follow.


Origin football has always delivered its share of quirky moments - the Martin Bella backwards play-the-ball for one - but not many raised the eyebrows like Lockyer's effort last night to line up at the wrong end of the field as the teams emerged for the second half.


The Queensland five-eighth was immersed in such deep thought after his side trailed 18-6 at the break that as he took the team out for the second 40 minutes, he peeled off to the left while his side peeled off to the right.
Only a small portion of the crowd and just a handful of teammates seemed to notice Lockyer's meanderings, which saw him jog all the way to the tryline in the Blues' half while his team waited to receive the kick-off at the other end of Suncorp Stadium.


"I ran out and I was trying to think about what we were going to do in the first set of six - and as I ran out the Blues all lined up to my right and not knowing which side of the line we were on, I just ran down to the left," Lockyer said this morning.


"The crowd laughed. I was just telling everyone I left my mouthguard there."


After a gentle reminder from the crowd behind the tryline, Lockyer put his head down and cantered 100m in the opposite direction - straight through the Blues who were lined up on halfway - to the other end, where he proceeded to catch the kick-off and get the game underway.


"I was in my own little world. I was just thinking. And then all of a sudden I was at the wrong end. I think they waited for me anyway," he said.


"I've never done what I did last night. Not that I can remember. It's the first time I've done that."


Under questioning this morning, Queensland teammates Steve Price and Petero Civoniceva both said they were oblivious to Lockyer's unscheduled departure, while Lockyer in turn said he was merely marking the spot for Price to score his second half try.


Queensland hooker Cameron Smith applauded Lockyer for flying under the radar and dodging a ribbing from his teammates.


"As soon as the crowd went up I looked down there and Locky started to run back up," Smith said.


"He was pretty sneaky. He didn't seem too embarrassed."



Source: LeagueHQ.com.au

Tamwelg
24-05-07, 06:49 PM
hahaha, that quite funny.

Steel Dragon
24-05-07, 11:23 PM
Bloody New South Wales had to be gentlemen. Should have kicked off anyway.

Jason :p

Steel Dragon
24-05-07, 11:39 PM
QUEENSLANDER!!!!!!!!!!!

Great game for the boys. Price was the MOM in my books. All the Queenslander's played well however I would expect some changes most probably Crocker and Webb in and even possibly Slater in for Tate. However the selectors will most probably be loyal to Tate for the next one.

Now to the ref. Well the real score should have been a bit different (My calculation 31-12)

The first NSW try wasn't a try. There was no evidence of a grounding and a forward pass. An it absolutely ****s me that when a try is in doubt to NSW they go to an ad break and don't show many replays........

Steve Price should have had two tries last night. The "forward" pass was less forward than the first NSW try. Lucky again that Queensland had one else they would be coping it this morning.

http://www.smh.com.au/ffximage/2007/05/23/260_queenslandnsw.jpg<- Great Photo

Typical Queenslander. You win the game, and all you can do is whinge about the ref. If you want to be serious, you can remove the field goal (came from the penalty against Mason - the hand carrying the ball never touched the ground), and Inglis' second try (came from a six again when the ball was kicked straight into a Blues player who never played at it). I'm also not convinced on the first Price "try". It definitely looked forward live, which is the only look the ref gets at it. And the replay only showed it was a closer run thing then it appeared at first glance. And besides, every single one of you Queenslanders would have gone up had the jersey colours been reversed. Real score: 24-12 or 18-12. Queensland still win on any count, but it would be nice to see a bit of even-handedness. Then again, you Queenslanders are so in love with yourselves it's no doubt impossible to call it straight down the middle.

I also love Queensland's, or should I say Tonie Carrol's, version of intimidating the Blues. Just smack 'em in the head with a forearm, elbow or whatever's handy. Dirtiest player in the game, even ahead of O'Meley.

Jason

RLfan
25-05-07, 08:01 AM
Carroll was put on report twice for swinging arms, but was clearing because the NSW player were falling, and it is bloody hard to change defensive styles in a split second.

Also add to the fact Braith Anasta & Jarryd Hayne threw an elbow each that has gone unnoticed.

Future Star
25-05-07, 08:38 AM
Leave it like you left the ball for Lockyer to pick up ;)

Touche.

TITANS007
25-05-07, 09:23 AM
JT getting mom was absolute bollocks! There was no way on earth he deserved that. Aside from setting up one try, he did nothing! I thought Steve Price or Khunt should have gotten that award.

Coaster
25-05-07, 10:59 AM
Typical Queenslander. You win the game, and all you can do is whinge about the ref. If you want to be serious, you can remove the field goal (came from the penalty against Mason - the hand carrying the ball never touched the ground), and Inglis' second try (came from a six again when the ball was kicked straight into a Blues player who never played at it). I'm also not convinced on the first Price "try". It definitely looked forward live, which is the only look the ref gets at it. And the replay only showed it was a closer run thing then it appeared at first glance. And besides, every single one of you Queenslanders would have gone up had the jersey colours been reversed. Real score: 24-12 or 18-12. Queensland still win on any count, but it would be nice to see a bit of even-handedness. Then again, you Queenslanders are so in love with yourselves it's no doubt impossible to call it straight down the middle.

I also love Queensland's, or should I say Tonie Carrol's, version of intimidating the Blues. Just smack 'em in the head with a forearm, elbow or whatever's handy. Dirtiest player in the game, even ahead of O'Meley.

Jason


HAHA suck it up princess

Capital_Shark
25-05-07, 12:28 PM
Typical Queenslander. You win the game, and all you can do is whinge about the ref. If you want to be serious, you can remove the field goal (came from the penalty against Mason - the hand carrying the ball never touched the ground), and Inglis' second try (came from a six again when the ball was kicked straight into a Blues player who never played at it). I'm also not convinced on the first Price "try". It definitely looked forward live, which is the only look the ref gets at it. And the replay only showed it was a closer run thing then it appeared at first glance. And besides, every single one of you Queenslanders would have gone up had the jersey colours been reversed. Real score: 24-12 or 18-12. Queensland still win on any count, but it would be nice to see a bit of even-handedness. Then again, you Queenslanders are so in love with yourselves it's no doubt impossible to call it straight down the middle.

I also love Queensland's, or should I say Tonie Carrol's, version of intimidating the Blues. Just smack 'em in the head with a forearm, elbow or whatever's handy. Dirtiest player in the game, even ahead of O'Meley.

Jason

QLD won, that gives us the divine right to piss and moan about any aspect of the game without it being sour grapes cause we can always wrap up the rant with "oh well, just as well we won anyway" - something you won't be able to end your ramblings with for quiet a while.


QUEENSLANDER!!!

Steelers
25-05-07, 01:27 PM
JT was brilliant, but he didn't deserve MOTM over Price. If it wasn't for Price, Thurston wouldn't have been in any sort of position to set up the plays he did.

Queenslander
25-05-07, 03:36 PM
Typical Queenslander. You win the game, and all you can do is whinge about the ref. If you want to be serious, you can remove the field goal (came from the penalty against Mason - the hand carrying the ball never touched the ground), and Inglis' second try (came from a six again when the ball was kicked straight into a Blues player who never played at it). I'm also not convinced on the first Price "try". It definitely looked forward live, which is the only look the ref gets at it. And the replay only showed it was a closer run thing then it appeared at first glance. And besides, every single one of you Queenslanders would have gone up had the jersey colours been reversed. Real score: 24-12 or 18-12. Queensland still win on any count, but it would be nice to see a bit of even-handedness. Then again, you Queenslanders are so in love with yourselves it's no doubt impossible to call it straight down the middle.

I also love Queensland's, or should I say Tonie Carrol's, version of intimidating the Blues. Just smack 'em in the head with a forearm, elbow or whatever's handy. Dirtiest player in the game, even ahead of O'Meley.

Jason

We have a missing dummy that I think you need to collect.....

Robbie_Dee
25-05-07, 04:52 PM
JT was brilliant, but he didn't deserve MOTM over Price. If it wasn't for Price, Thurston wouldn't have been in any sort of position to set up the plays he did.I very much agree. As good as it was to see thurston get man of the match, i was confused as to why Price didn't get it.

I mean he was just insanely great all night! When a front row forward can do a charge down like that, and continue chasing, and snatch the ball back up, is amazing! He was easily the best player on the field in my eyes.

Old Diehard
25-05-07, 04:57 PM
One client who thought NSW were home dropped $40,000 when Queensland scored 19 unanswered points in the second half.

Gerard Daffy from Lasseters said bookmakers would be suffering today after Queensland delivered for punters.

“Like most bookies we got taken to the cleaners with every favourite option,” said Daffy, feeling as battered as some of the Blues players today.

“One of the worst result was Johnathan Thurston for man of the match,” Daffy said.

Daffy said Queensland’s inability to win in 11 attempts at Telstra Stadium would see NSW favourites for Origin II.

“NSW will be favourites, but there won’t be much in it,” he said.
Cut and pasted off a previous post!

Damn I didn't know the Ref Mr Simpkins lost 40k on the result- but it does explain alot....And to the NSW supporters who also saw faults in his game from their perspective then that means he must have had a real shocker!

I believe the formula is that the QRL picks the next ref in the away game but both leagues must agree on the person! Let's try someone new. I honestly don't believe the guy in charge the other night was good enough- witness the comments on this website from fans of both sides regarding his mistaken calls!

Steel Dragon
25-05-07, 11:41 PM
We have a missing dummy that I think you need to collect.....

Is it a nice bright blue one... ?

Jason :)

~lee~
26-05-07, 12:26 AM
Watched the game today on bigpond, i thought it was pretty good. Some good hits going in and lots of talking points. Mini had a solid game, Lyon done well, Hayne done well if it wasnt for the fact of his error. Price and JT best two for the Q's.

More Eels required in the NSW if we want to win the series :)

Dakink
26-05-07, 09:37 AM
You all suck.

Ryan
26-05-07, 10:49 AM
I also love Queensland's, or should I say Tonie Carrol's, version of intimidating the Blues. Just smack 'em in the head with a forearm, elbow or whatever's handy.


It was only a few weeks ago that Brett White was in the newspapers bragging how he wasn't sore after Melb vs Bris match, putting sh!t on the Broncos forward pack.
So it should be no surprise that he copped that, it was only a matter of when. And who better to dish it out other that Carrol? :)
Next time he'll think twice before talking down the leagues hardest hitters.....

Steel Dragon
26-05-07, 12:26 PM
The Broncos are the league's hardest hitters? You are kidding, right... Well, if you are right, it just goes to show that hitting hard is a hell of a long way from being a good team that can win footy games. By the way, attacking a player's head is not hitting hard, it is cheating.

Jason

Ryan
26-05-07, 03:31 PM
The Broncos are the league's hardest hitters? You are kidding, right... Well, if you are right, it just goes to show that hitting hard is a hell of a long way from being a good team that can win footy games. By the way, attacking a player's head is not hitting hard, it is cheating.

Jason

Kidding? - Buggered if I know what Leauge you are watching but I wasn't talking about London Broncos. I was refering to Broncos including Tonie Carrol, Petro Civ, Shane Webcke ect, ect - All Aust. reps for a reason.
Wasn't Tonie Carroll voted RLW's most feared tackler or something similar? Come on, credit where credits due.......

"- hell of a long way from being a good team that can win footy games?" - Has your memory lapsed you idiot? :rolleyes:
Isn't being the defending premiers close enough for you? How many clubs have won 6 premierships in the modern game?

You don't have to be 'attacking' a players head to bust their nose. Brett got put flat on his back fair & square. There was obviously some contact with his head but big deal, thats what you get in rugby league, let alone Origin. Carroll has ben cleared by the judicary anyway, so there was obviously nothing in it.

The 'Grapple Tackle' is also cheating, but that didn't seem to bother either teams or the ref.....

NSW should bring out their own brand of tissues, will be a top seller before this series is over.....