Yesterday it was confirmed that Will Hopoate and Josh Dugan will replace the injured Morris brothers in the squad for the second State of Origin squad, with Dugan set to take up the centre position.
Josh Dugan has always lifted in the Origin arena, and was amongst the state’s best in last years series, however he has only played two games at centre.
After only two games, one of which in he was completely dominated against South Sydney, Dugan was yesterday announced as ‘the in form’ Josh Dugan.
To be fair, Dugan did score three tries on Saturday Night, but he was opposite the horribly in form Blake Ayshford, in a NSW cup strength Sharks side.
Dugan goes from marking Blake Ayshford to marking arguably the best player in the game today in Greg Inglis.
Dugan will have to have the game of his life to contain a genuine match winner in Inglis.
Don’t get me wrong, I’m a huge fan of Dugan, but having only played two games at centre, it’s a tough ask.
Laurie Daley said he wanted to pick a team on form … Josh Mansour is the form winger of the competition and has been overlooked for a centre, while a fullback has been picked at centre.
Blues by 30
Hayne To Referee Origin Two
Arguably the most head scratching decision of yesterday was not in the NSW centre position but the appointment of Shane Hayne to officiate Origin two.
Hayne had a shocking Origin One, making a host of mistakes, some of which could have changed the game, and the series as a result, yet he has been given the whistle again for the biggest game so far this season.
Imagine going in to work, having a shocking day, messing up with a main client, only to be given another shot at the main client … not likely.
I’m not one to bag referees, it’s a tough job, but in ordinary work, if you don’t perform, the boss has a word, in this instance, that word was ‘meh’.
There’s ABSOLUTELY no accountability in the refereeing ranks.
Bird Brain
I cannot believe some people took to social media to bag the selection of one of the game’s best in Greg Bird.
I’m all for not changing a successful side, but there is no way Tony Williams is the same league as a player as the World Cup winning Bird.
It was reported that it came down to either Merrin or Williams being dropped to make way for Bird, and I believe the correct decision was made. If there is an injury up front, Merrin can move into the front row, and can play big minutes if needed.
Williams is an impact player, but Origin needs more than the six or so runs Williams produces. There will be plenty more jerseys for T-Rex in the future. God help the Maroons if he ever truly recognises just how good he is.
