State of Origin

Well, Qld have won for the second year in a row. Herein the recriminations.

Neither team played particularly well. Both sides defended pretty darn well. Qld showed more attacking flair. Kimmorley played well, but didn't actually do anything. In fact, NSW showed very few interesting attacking plays.

Qld, well, they did enough. It's not often that you can say that about a SOO victory, but there we are. Perhaps this same NSW team will gel after a few games, but you don't get that luxury in Origin football.

Odd comments:
NSW didn't fold as usual in the second half. They still lost, but they're making progress.

Please, spare me the interview with the family of the debutant.
"So, Mr Stewart, are you proud of your son?"
"In fact I am. Why do you ask?
"Because TV tradition demands I do."
"Eff off"

(that would have been the appropriate response)

Allow me to comment on the lame Pepsi Max ad. OK, so two guys are picked up by Eva Longoria from Desperate Housewives. She announces she'll be spending a prolonged time with them and their reaction? Drink Pepsi. Please!! This could be a skit in a comedy show. The only response of some lame, lame guy to whatever life throws at him - swig from a carbonated beverage.

Very good rendition of the national anthem by Guy Sebastian. Ok, the guy may not be able to write a song, but he can flat out sing. Great voice. Hears to hoping he finds his Bernie Taupin.

Ben Ikin - worst commentator ever. I mean, he makes Fatty Vautin look like Mr Impartial. Can he offer anything of substance?
"I can feel a Queenslander victory."
"The hoodoo could be broken."
"Well how about that Lockyer? Are you glad you won?"
For chrissakes, who the hell is paying him? He offers nothing. And i'm being kind here.

Greg Inglis. No one can push this guy back. Has anyone else noticed this? He doesn't look that strong, but of all the players, he always makes ground, even when he hits the tacklers. Someone's gotta size him up and put him down sooner or later. Surely!

All in all, a rather disappointing finale. I'd go so far as to rate this one of the worst games ever. Tension, it had. Everything else, it didn't. Don't get me wrong, there's some amazing talents in this game. But they didn't show it.

I actually have a good feeling about game three. NSW will be looser, Qld will be looser because they'll actually be drunk during the game.

Bring on the regular season...