Rugby league great Cameron Smith is confident that Queensland can turn the tables on their disastrous performance in Townsville to win Origin II.
While the Maroons lost 50-6 in the series opener, Smith believes the pressure is now well and truly on the Blues as they’re expected to wrap up Game II on Sunday.
Smith pointed to the fact that Queensland love to play the underdog, believing a “backs to the wall” attitude could see them claim victory at Suncorp.
“I’m still confident, I’m confident that the Queenslanders can go out and get a victory and play well,” Smith said on SEN 1170 Breakfast.
“The pressure now falls on the Blues, because they’re one up.
“If they let this great victory in Game I slide, the pressure now mounts for Game III in a decider.
“It’s backs to the wall for Queensland, that’s a place we love to be in.
“We’ve got another player in hospital (Jai Arrow – infection), it’s just panning out beautifully for us.
“They’ve had a good training week on the Gold Coast, they’re ready to go.”
With New South Wales hot favourites to claim victory, the Maroons great is hoping that they seize up under the weight of expectations.
“You go out 50-0, they’re paying $1.05, they’re Winx prices,” Smith added.
“All the pressure is on them, they could just seize up a little bit.
“(Nathan) Cleary could seize up a little bit, (Jarome) Luai needs to seize up, and if they go out a little bit flustered early things could change to the Maroons favour.”
Origin II is set for Sunday night at Suncorp Stadium, with kick off set for 7:50pm (AEST).