While this rivalry is unparalleled, the element of parity seems to be missing from the State of Origin these days. As Queensland enters the 2018 series riding the momentum of eleven victories in the last twelve encounters, most betting experts are leaning toward another Maroons success. Nonetheless, considering that Queensland has recorded only one 3-0 whitewash during this stretch (in 2010), the New South Wales team – having claimed victory as recently as 2014 – should never be overlooked.
A notable change for NSW this year is the appointment of Brad Fittler as Laurie Daley’s successor, leading to an increase in punters taking advantage of 100% matched bonuses for State of Origin matches via Oddschecker. Some speculate that Daley’s prolonged tenure negatively impacted his team’s performance.
Others simply feel that his squad was unable to compete with Queensland, but regardless of an NSW fan’s view on Fittler’s hiring, there is a rising conviction that his man-management experience outweighs that of his predecessor, especially regarding the squad’s dynamics in the dressing room.
Although history favors a Queensland team once again led by Kevin Walters for this series, the absence of key figures Johnathan Thurston and Cooper Cronk undoubtedly hinders the Maroons. Last year’s decisive 22-6 victory for Queensland over NSW highlighted the psychological edge the Maroons hold in the series, with Valentine Holmes contributing three tries.
This performance emphasized Queensland’s psychological stronghold over the series, yet it was preceded by substantial evidence in favor of NSW. The Blues displayed significant power in Brisbane during Game One of last year’s series, claiming a comfortable 28-4 win before narrowly falling short (18-16) after a last-minute conversion from Thurston sealed the game.
Based on last year’s performances, there’s everything to fight for – and beyond, for NSW. The new Fittler era has demonstrated to be resolute, enforcing a reported mobile phone communication ban among other strategies to sharpen the focus of his squad, encouraging full engagement from both mind and body.
Once again, the Blues are operating out of the coastal region of Coogee, a location that has historically yielded great results, and with its diverse training terrains, Fittler evidently values and honors the traditions of NSW.
Despite the historical odds leaning against them, current betting lines indicate that NSW is favored for the forthcoming State of Origin series, with minimal distinction between the two teams.
