Players the Blues need to turn the State of Origin tide in 2018
QUEENSLAND came back from the dead to win State of Origin yet again - and did so picking eight new faces with a host of big name stars out injured.
Our fearless forecaster THE MOLE has decided to turn the tables for 2018, nominating the eight players the Blues should bring in to have a chance to match Queensland’s passion and power.
PAUL VAUGHAN (Dragons): Should have been among the first forwards picked this year - but evidently his form was too good at club level. Takes the ball forward and is fearless. Has the enthusiasm to match the Maroons.
Paul Vaughan.
TOM TRBOJEVIC (Manly): Brother Jake proved he has what it takes this campaign - and Turbo Tom is even better. A superb ball runner who can play wing, centre or fullback and knows his way to the tryline.
Tom Trbojevic.
JAMES ROBERTS (Broncos): After losing 11 of 12 series, you have to take some gambles - and this bloke is one. But he’s a proven tryscorer and one of the quickest players across the field in the NRL.
James Roberts.
NATHAN ROSS (Knights): Another bloke with no fear and plenty of enthusiasm, he scores superb tries week in, week out for the last-placed Knights - imagine what he could do in a good side.
Nathan Ross.
NATHAN CLEARY (Penrith): Mitchell Pearce has been NSW’s best option for the past few years - but isn’t up to the task of steering the Blues home in clutch games. In another 12 months, this cool-headed kid will be ready.
Nathan Cleary.
DAMIEN COOK (Souths): Another gamble but offers the Blues much more in attack than the tough, but predictable Nathan Peats. Dynamite out of dummyhalf, he’ll get the attack going forward.
Damien Cook.
RYAN JAMES (Titans): Old-school prop who won’t let the Maroons dictate terms up front. Has a real physical presence - Queensland don;t want him there and that’s why he should get a run.
Ryan James.
CLINT GUTHERSON (Eels): Another big improver over the past 12 months who bases his game on enthusiasm and spark. Can play anywhere in the backline and will give the team a boost coming off the bench.
