The 2025 State of Origin series is alive and headed for a blockbuster decider at Accor Stadium, thanks to a gutsy and dramatic 26-24 victory by the Queensland Maroons in Game II at Perth’s Optus Stadium. In a match packed with big hits, brilliant tries and heart-stopping moments, Queensland showed their trademark resilience to level the series at 1-1 and leave fans counting down the days until the Game III showdown in Sydney.
After their resounding loss in Game I the Blues and Sydney Rugby League media made the critical mistake of backing Queensland into a corner. The series was deemed a write off, and talks of a white wash had begun well before the first siren of Game II even sounded. With scrutiny of the coach, and the heart of the side under question, the Maroons were exactly where they wanted to be. The underdogs.
Sure enough, the Maroons came out with greater intent, desperate to show up for their under-fire coach Billy Slater. However once again Queensland found themselves under the pump early, with the opening statement coming in just the 6th minute, when Brian To’o crossed over the line in the corner to put New South Wales up 6-0. It didn’t take long for the Maroons to respond though, with The Hammer opening the floodgates to what would lead to four consecutive Queensland tries; two to Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow, and one apiece to the newly appointed Captain Cameron Munster and finally Kurt Capewell. The Munny-ball era of State of Origin had arrived and Queensland headed into half-time in front 26-6.
After the break, the second half exploded into action, with NSW desperate to overcome their 20 point deficit, 8-0 penalty count and mount what would be the largest comeback in State of Origin history. As if the script had been written, the Blues struck first, with Brian To’o storming over out wide in the 45th minute after a slick backline movement. But the Blues kicking woes from Game I reared their ugly head once again as Zac Lomax would go on to miss the conversion attempt.
Queensland struggled to hit back as NSW mounted four second half tries of their own with Brian To’o crossing for his second, before the Crichton combo crossed over with Stephen and Angus sealing four pointers of their own. But ultimately goal kicking would be the deciding factor of the contest with the Blues missing three conversion attempts while Valentine Holmes pinpoint accuracy helped the Maroons steal a two point victory and keep the series alive!
With the 2025 State of Origin series now tied at 1-1, all eyes turn to Accor Stadium for what promises to be one of the great Origin deciders. The Blues will have the backing of their home crowd as they look to clinch the shield on home soil but Queensland have proven once again why you should never write off a champion.
Don’t miss your chance to show your state pride this year, Jerseys Megastore has all the latest Maroons gear, from jerseys and training kit to caps, scarves, beanies and more. Whether you’re heading to Sydney, or watching at home, get ready for Game III and back Queensland all the way with Jerseys Megastore, for all things footy!
