The numbers that show Queensland’s ability to win State of Origin games at the death is no myth
The numbers showing the Queensland Maroons’ ability to win State of Origin games and series against the odds are not a myth
- Maroons always seem to dominate the main Origin moments
- Statistics going back to 2000 have proven this to be the case
- Former center Mark Coyne confirmed a ‘never say die’ mentality
Queensland breaking NSW hearts at death is part of Origin folklore – but recent numbers have also confirmed that the Maroons have an edge when it comes down to it.
According to David Middleton’s League Information Services, which dates back to 1993, Queensland has scored 254 points in the last 10 minutes of interstate matches compared to NSW’s 224.
And it is significant that since 2000 the Maroons have won or drawn nine games in the last 10 minutes if they were behind or tied.
The stats support the story that the men from the Sunshine State Origin “understand” more than their opponents in Sky Blue.
Former Maroon center Mark Coyne – whose dramatic late try in 1994 at the Sydney Football Stadium is often echoed during Origin discussions – confirmed this week that a never say that ethos is a hallmark of all teams in Queensland.
Cameron Munster (pictured, second from left) of the Maroons celebrates with teammates after their victory on Wednesday
Former Maroons center Mark Coyne confirmed this week that a never say that ethos is a hallmark of the Queensland Origin teams
“Even when I was playing, there was that ‘Queensland’ call,” Coyne told the The Sydney Morning Herald.
“It was what we talked about all along, we just never give up.
“When I scored my try in ’94, the call behind the line was ‘we never give up, we never give up’. That culture has existed in Queensland for many years.
“I’m not saying NSW doesn’t have it, but we certainly believe we always have a chance to win no matter the circumstances.”
Billy Slater’s Queensland dug deep in Adelaide on Wednesday night, scoring two late tries with 12 men to record a 26-18 victory.
It will put them in a good position to retain the Shield when they tackle the Blues in game two at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane on June 21.
And while NSW has many game winners and will be desperate, homegrown Queensland is perhaps rugby league’s most daunting assignment for their adoring fans.
Additionally, if the game is tied heading into the final 10 minutes, it would be a brave footy fan to support NSW to square the series with a come from behind win.
Over to you, Brad Fittler and your pressured Blues.