Former Blues coach Brad Fittler has weighed in on New South Wales’ deflating Origin I performance, claiming Michael Maguire’s side lacked a plan after Joseph Suaalii’s send off.
Speaking post-match, Fittler applauded the Blues but made a big claim regarding Maguire’s coaching strategy after it was thrown into disarray when the Blues rookie was sent off after an ugly high shot on Maroons fullback Reece Walsh.
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The Hammer stars at both ends for QLD | 01:45
For Fittler, the Blues needed to have a plan should they be hit with any adversity in their backline.
“At the end of the day, they were pretty heroic (but) you’ve still got to come up with a plan to win the game,” Fittler said following the Blues’ 38-10 Game I loss.
“I don’t think at any stage did we look organised on a certain edge.”
The hit on Queensland star Walsh left him on the ground for some time afterwards and ultimately resulted in the fullback being ruled out with a HIA.
The Maroons were then able to reshuffle their backline, with Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow going on to score a hattrick.
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However, it was an uphill battle for the remainder of the game for NSW, who remained in the fight despite being a man down.
“They had a red hot crack. The coach (Michael Maguire) will be able to go away (and say) ‘here’s enough moments boys’,” Fittler said.
“He will be able to convince them, ‘here’s enough moments, we can do this. Just hold the ball, stay in the game longer’.
“There were enough moments, enough signs of courage to give the coach hope.”
Source Agencies
