Origin 1

If ever there has been a rivalry in this country that has transcended a sport from an amateur game to a nationwide phenomenon its State Of Origin. Even the great Ray Warren said it wouldn't work.

32 years later its down right frightening to see the beast it has become. There's just nothing that comes close to it in this country.

Queensland dominated the 80's losing only 2 series. New South Wales between 1992-2005 won 9 series with 2 drawn. Queensland only won 2 series outright in 13 years. Since 2006 we all know the story. It goes in swings and roundabouts and Queensland's run will come to an end.

Ask anyone who has played Origin and they say the speed of the game is just incredible. Seemed the smart thing for Ricky Stuart to do was pick a side that is faster than the Maroons. Paul Gallen watching on from the sidelines says he can't believe how quick they are as a team. Good signs for the Blues. They must play with speed. Dominating the ruck is crucial. Punching through the middle third, all hands on deck and off we go.

When Todd Carney drifts across field tonight he must have options. Coming back under him, punching through holes for him. An all out assault is needed to take town the men in Maroon.

Im not worried about the Cane Toads targeting Mitchell Pearce in defence. They tried last year and he belted anything that came near him. Carney must do the same. Pearce should now feel comfortable in this arena. Tonight he plays game number 7.

Jarryd Hayne plays game 14 tonight for the Blues, he has never won a series. If Hayne tucks the ball under his wing on the kick returns good things will happen. If he comes in field and sniffs around for a half chance good things will happen.

Debutant James Tamou holds a big key. His opening spell he needs to make big metres and really make a dent in the Maroons defence. His defence will take care of itself. A big shoulder or two would be handy as well.

Origin is a scary place to be. Scarier if your on the losing side. This generation of Blues only knows losing. Queensland are just a footy side and last year they showed glimpses that the machine is starting to break down. The Blues are close.

If you aren't fired up now and if your not fired up after Phil Gould's last word, there is just no pleasing you. UP THE BLUES !!!