Alexander outlines how NSW orchestrated the perfect first half in Game II

NSW have stormed back into the 2024 State of Origin series after a 38-18 demolition of the Queensland Maroons in front of over 90,000 fans at the MCG in Game II.

A record 34-0 half time scoreline on the back of a Mitch Moses and Angus Crichton masterclass had effectively sewn up the match in the opening stanza.

SEN’s Greg Alexander declared the Blues’ first half as one of the most perfect opening 40 minutes of football he had ever witnessed.

“It really doesn’t get any better than that,” Alexander said on SEN 1170 Breakfast.

“It took 10 minutes to get going when it was a contest but after that, we dominated everything and every facet of the game in the opening 40 minutes.

“NSW had the ball and the field position but they made the absolute most of it.

“They nailed everything and NSW did not miss an opportunity. When you have a lineup chock full of attacking stars…if the other team is off slightly, this is what can happen.

“These blokes can tear defences apart. It was over at half time and the damage had been done.

“It was brilliant football for the Blues and I was so happy for a lot of the individuals.

“Dylan Edwards in his debut and Mitch Moses who is always under pressure (but) he absolutely delivered.”

The Blues now face the daunting task of a series decider at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane; a venue in which they have failed to win a decider since 2005.

Alexander reminded the state of NSW that the efforts shown in Game II will all be for naught if the Blues can’t come away with the Origin shield.

“We have a couple of rounds of footy to go before Game III,” Alexander said.

“Let’s deal with what we did on Wednesday night. We can celebrate and let’s worry about Queensland and Suncorp Stadium in a few weeks’ time.

“Queensland will be ready for Suncorp.”

Game III will be held on July 17 and NSW can claim their first Origin title since 2021.