I have to admit, I'm not big on State of Origin. It's likely because I'm most definitely a club before State person, and there have been a few years where Eels players have found their way into maroon jerseys and those years somehow diminished my passion for the Blues.
However, this year I'm excited. We have no Eels lining up for Queensland, and our man, Jarryd Hayne is apparently the go-to-guy who can rescue NSW and achieve the unachievable tonight. Well, that's the case if you believe this hyperbolic story in the Herald today.
My first impression reading that story is that the pressure on Jarryd Hayne going into this match is enormous and it's not particularly fair, either. As fullback, Hayne's ability to influence the game is totally dependent on his forwards and halves doing their job. Yes, maybe if NSW man-up across the park, it could be Hayne that delivers the killer blow. If that happens, I hope you join me in jumping up on your lounges for a rendition of "Your whole team is not as good as Jarryd" if that happens.
However, I must admit the Eel inside me is a little nervous about how Jarryd is going to stand up to that pressure. Jarryd has been playing incredible football this year but we've been in the position this year of having very little expectation and subsequently little pressure. How will Jarryd cope with being the go-to-guy and whom Queensland will undoubtedly be watching like a fox.
The Eel inside me is also a little excited about the prospect of Hayne standing up to this test. We've all seen, read, discussed the remarkably different attitute that Hayne has displayed on the park this year. The attention to detail, the leadership and the courage. If he can take that through to the biggest Rugby League stage of all, and with the hopes and expectations of an entire state on his shoulders, what's left to stop Hayne from fulfilling his destiny of being one of the greatest Rugby League players of our time.
There won't be anything, and who knows where he can lead Parramatta to, if he is able to help NSW get across the line against the so-called unbeatable Queenslanders.
So tonight, I'll take off the Blue and Gold and fit up in Sky Blue. And I won't just watch with feigned enthusiasm. Tonight, I'm all in. C'arn Jarryd. C'arn Blues!
Replies
Blues first then the eels for me! State of Origin with Roy and HG commentating is what got me into footy!
The unmade Bed
The brick with eyes
Salt n Vinegar, barbecue
The axe
Cough drop
Datsun 180B man (too many options)
Jarryd will go well. I am confident we can get the job done this year. I wasn't when the team was first announced but I am getting more confident the closer we get. I think our creativity will come from Hayne and Farrah allowing the doggies halves freedom to run the ball or in Hodgkinsons case utilise his kicking game. We have a good ability to score from kicks with Tupou and the Morris boys.
I have just placed my first big footy bet for the year on the might blues. Go you good things.
Can't wait to watch Lord Jarryd school that over the hill myth slater.
NSW by 1.
Hodgkinson.
My first thought too.
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