This was published 9 years ago
State of Origin: NSW player ratings game three
Paul Zalunardo
1. James Tedesco - 6
One of NSW’s better players. Always dangerous be it returning kicks or backing up his forwards in the middle of the ruck. The jersey is his for a few years to come.
2. Brett Morris - 5
As always, a solid display. Didn’t get a lot in the way of opportunities but could have gone looking for the ball a little more. Only had 10 carries for the match.
3. Josh Dugan - 7
The best of the Blues back by some way. Scored NSW’s only try and also a constant threat with his powerful running game. The visitors needed more players like him.
4. Jarryd Hayne - 4
A second below-par performance in a row. His days of dominating Origin matches appear to be over. The old Hayne would have done something special on such a stage.
5. Blake Ferguson - 5
A good performance but all three of Holmes’ tries came on his side of the field. They weren’t his fault, but it still isn’t a good look.
6. James Maloney - 4
The effort was there but he just wasn’t able to do a lot in terms of attacking play. His forwards didn’t give him much to work with. Cameron Munster outplayed him in all aspects of the game.
7. Mitchell Pearce - 3
He doesn’t deserve it, but the lack of another viable option means he will probably get another go next year. His name was trending on Twitter last night – hopefully he doesn’t read a majority of those tweets.
8. Aaron Woods - 3
Nine hit-ups. That was the sum total of Woods’ 38-minutes of game time. On too many occasions he was guilty of not running out defensive plays. Is capable of much better.
9. Nathan Peats - 3
A non-factor at dummy half. Didn’t run the ball at all. When the number nine isn’t a threat with the ball it makes life a lot easier for the defence. The jury’s out as to whether he is the long-term solution in this jersey.
