The second instalment of the 2024 State of Origin series is in the books with New South Wales running riot in Melbourne to force a decider.
The Blues entered into the do-or-die clash under immense pressure but blew Queensland away in a brilliant first half as they romped to a 38-18 win at the MCG in front of 90,084 people.
Attention now turns to Game III where Queensland will attempt to dust themselves down and get back on track in front as they go for their third straight series win.
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The Maroons will head home for the third and final match of the series after being on the road for the first two games.
Billy Slater’s side emerged victorious on enemy territory in the opener when Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow bagged a hat-trick in a game which came to be defined by Joseph Suaalii’s send-off.
The Blues headed to the MCG knowing only a win would do and Michael Maguire’s new-look side duly produced with Brian To'o and Zac Lomax both crossing for doubles.
The third Origin clash will now head to Suncorp Stadium on July 17.
Despite the heavy defeat, QLD still have the weight of history on their side after winning the first game in Sydney earlier this month.
They have won seven out of eight series after emerging victorious in their rival's backyard in the opening match of the series, while the state that has lost the first game has gone on to win the series on just 10 occasions in the past.
State of Origin 2024 schedule
After the opening game of the series in Sydney, Origin arrived in Melbourne for Game II on June 26.
The series will be wrapped up in Queensland on Wednesday, July 17.