In the aftermath of the Origin decider, a crucial aspect has been overlooked: the Maroons' dismal performance. With an alarming number of missed tackles and a completion rate that would make a bad club team blush, Queensland's game was a far cry from their usual standard.
As Phil Gould pointed out, the Maroons struggled to handle the pressure of favoritism. This got me thinking: is being the favorite a curse in Origin? The numbers don't lie. This year, the pre-match favorites lost every single Origin match, and over the past decade, the favorites have won only 40% of the time. It's almost as if the underdogs are the real favorites in this competition.
The upside-down logic of Origin was on full display when Queensland, expected to win Games 1 and 3, lost both. Yet, in Game 2, when they were the underdogs, they emerged victorious. It's a fascinating dynamic, and it raises the question: what gives the underdogs that extra edge? Perhaps it's the chip on their shoulder, the determination to prove the critics wrong, or simply the freedom that comes with having nothing to lose.
Moving on to the Roosters' celebration game, it was a night to remember for Daniel Tupou's 300th NRL match. The 30-metre lines painted with "300" were a nice touch, and Tupou's first try, assisted by a Billy Smith pass, was a highlight. But the real star of the show was Mark Nawaqanitawase, who showcased his genius on the opposite wing. His duel with Josh Addo-Carr was a treat, and his two magical passes, one a fluke and the other a display of pure skill, left fans in awe. Nawaqanitawase is a player to watch, and the Roosters made a wise decision in acquiring him.
Now, let's talk about the Jarome Luai situation and the Wests Tigers. The league needs to prioritize its fans, and the Luai saga highlights a systemic flaw that needs addressing. Having an 18-month lame duck period, as Luai experienced, compromises not only the team's performance but also the fans' experience. No contract for 2028 should be registered while the current season is ongoing. The Tigers' decision to move on from Luai in 2027 sheds light on this issue, and it's time for the league to take action.
The Sharks' feeding frenzy against the Dolphins was a shocking result. A 66-0 victory is a rare feat, and while perfection is fleeting, the Sharks can savor this moment. For the Dolphins, this loss is a stark reminder that no team has ever recovered from such a defeat to win the premiership. It's a tough pill to swallow, but it's a reality check for the team.
Lastly, Fozball's future is uncertain as Manly struggles with bad habits. The Anthony Siebold era saw similar issues with the team's endurance, and the Cowboys' win at Brookvale is a sign of a team on the rise. The top eight is taking shape, and with the run-in to the finals approaching, the competition is heating up.
In conclusion, the Origin series has highlighted the importance of mindset and the impact of favoritism. The Maroons' performance serves as a reminder that being the favorite doesn't guarantee success. The league must also address the contract situation to ensure a fair and engaging competition for its fans. As for the Sharks and Dolphins, their recent match was a stark reminder of the highs and lows of the game. And finally, Fozball's future is uncertain, but with teams like the Cowboys on the rise, the competition remains intense.
