Andrew Johns described it as the best game of Mitchell Moses’ career. This is how he put the boot into Queensland.
On the eve of his breakout State of Origin II masterclass, Mitchell Moses told NSW coach Michael Maguire that the left foot injury that had sidelined him for most of the season would prevent him from taking up the goal-kicking duties.
Maguire identified superstar Queensland fullback Reece Walsh as the danger man. So the plan was hatched to take away his kick-reception game.It’s why Moses kicked almost exclusively to Murray Taulagi. It was the start of a torrid night for the Maroons left winger, who was constantly forced to bring the ball back from deep within his own half.
“That should have been Reece Walsh’s ball every day of the week,” former Maroons skipper Cameron Smith lamented in commentary for Nine.Given the match was played at the home of the AFL, this play would have most resonated with the Melburnians. The ball is first shifted left Jarome Luai - we’ll speak more about his contributions shortly - who looks up and sees little opportunity on his side of the field.
At this point it is worth mentioning the role of Luai. While Moses deservedly earned most of the plaudits, Luai’s work with the boot was also of the highest quality. The Penrith playmaker played his part, putting through eight kicks of his own. Three of those resulted in a line drop-out.
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