Stage of Origin Game 1 Preview
Wednesday 9th June 8:10PM, Queensland Country Bank Stadium
I’d argue and say this is one of the most anticipated Origin series in recent memory after the drama of 2020, where Queenslands ‘worst ever side’ led by the unflappable Wayne Bennett in the coach’s box, ground their way to a memorable 2-1 series win over Brad Fittler’s Blues. However, Paul Green takes over as Maroons coach, and will have his work cut out for him with the Blues having been installed as commanding favourites to win the series opener in Townsville.
The game already has a myriad of subplots, including being moved from Melbourne to Townsville due to COVID-19 restrictions in Victoria, and will certainly play into the hands of Queensand, who will be with a 14th man throughout the full 80 minutes, such is the parochialism of the North Queensland faithful. Local boy Kyle Feldt will make his debut after many years of high level performances for the Cowboys, and along with Xavier Coates, will be a focal point of the Maroons attack as they look to take advantage of their two wingers size advantage over their New South Wales counterparts. Conversely ,the selection of a number of Panthers players in the Blues side will be advantageous as they will not be hurt by the lack of attacking cohesion they can sometimes plague the first game as players adapt to different attacking shapes. However, there hasn’t been more than 34 points scored in game one since 2010, and with the first half total points set at 20.5 I’m looking at it to go under as both teams look to feel each other out. While the season’s fixtures have been trending toward the ‘overs’ the intensity of Origin defence will keep the contest tight and low scoring through the first 40 minutes.
In terms of a victor I’m going to go out on a limb and select Queensland 1-12 with a man of the match performance from Christian Welch. The Blues arguably possess the more talented backline, and as such the Maroons will need to front up in the middle of the field, and I expect them to be lead by Welch who will stamp himself as the best front rower in the game,
Recommended Bet: Half-time total points over/under 20.5 $1.80.
Queensland 1-12 $3.55
Christian Welch Man of the Match $41
