State of Origin Game II Highlights
It seems Queensland’s dynasty is still alive thanks to the efforts of Thurston who suffered through fifty minutes of agony to help his team stun the Blues with a 18-16 win in the State of Origin game II. In front of an 80 thousand strong crowd, the mighty Blues had the shield in their sights, thwarting a second half attack by the Maroons. Going into the dying stages of the match, the Blues led 16-12 and were just minutes away from claiming the series.
However, the Queensland team refused to be downed and conjured one of the greatest escapes in in the history of the competition. Dane Gagai was the man set the wheels in motion, booting a sectional cross try to level the scores with just two minutes left to play. It was all left up to Thurston to do the conversion and save the Maroons from doom. With the stadium holding its breath, Thurston held his cool, nailed the sideline conversion and levelled the series.
Thurston Holds His Cool
While this may have been just another good performance by the big man, for the Maroons it was nothing short of a miracle. Halfway through the game, Thurston injured his shoulder but refused to surrender. Inspiring the rest of his team, Thurston held the match and the team together culminating with the conversion that sealed the match.
The sterling effort by the Maroons means that the two teams will meet for a thrilling decider on the 12th of July at Suncorp Stadium. Whether Thurston will be there is a different story. It will be a race against time for him to be fit enough to play in what would be his final game for Queensland.
With New South Wales dominating game 1, Queensland’s strategy was to strike early. After nine minutes of back and forth play, the Maroons quickly shifted the ball to Boyd who released to Holmes on the edge for his maiden try. However, three quick tries in the 14th, 24th and 27th minute put the Blues back on top and in a position to take control. It was the Maroons never say die spirit that got them through in the end. With a double from Gagai in the 52nd and 78th minute, Queensland were in with a chance and holding out for Thurston to do his magic.
| # | Site | Bonus | Bet | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |  | Betway |  | 5/5 | Up to $60 NZD | Bet now Review |
| 2 |  | Picklebet | | 4.9/5 | Login to see promotions | Bet now Review |
| 3 |  | Palmerbet | | 4.8/5 | 100% Match | Bet now Review |
More About Lauren Ball
An avid writer and sports betting enthusiast, Lauren Ball has found the ideal way to combine the two. As a regular contributor and resident OnlineBettingNZ.co.nz expert, Lauren is now putting her considerable wisdom to good use, and keeps punters informed as to what’s hot and happening in the online betting and sporting world.
From the latest sports results to any upsets or developments in the betting world, Lauren makes it her business to know what’s going on in the industry and share it with those who have the same interests.
You May Also Like:
SA Six Nations Plan Could Spark Bidding War
If South Africa were to join the Six Nations, such a move could potentially spark a bidding war to host the British & Irish Lions tour in 2033. The list ….
Kawa Leauma Dies After Freak Accident
Tragic news confirmed on Wednesday is that New Zealand lock Kawa Leauma has died of the head injuries sustained during an accident in Amsterdam in the Netherlands. The Spanish Rugby ….
Kawa Leauma Suffers Serious Head Injuries
New Zealand rugby player Kawa Leauma is reportedly in a critical condition in hospital after falling eight metres. Leauma, who is undergoing treatment in a hospital in Amsterdam, is said ….
Quade Cooper May Soon Call Australia Home
Wallabies star Quade Cooper told the media this week that he will be taking another citizenship test– a test that will hopefully allow him to finally call Australia his home. ….
World Rugby Says About Dementia
World Rugby has reportedly now told players that head impacts and concussions aren’t the only factors known to contribute to the early onset of dementia. The organisation allegedly said this ….