The Blues and Maroons have finalised their media commitments ahead of tomorrow night’s State of Origin showdown in Melbourne.
Coaches Michael Maguire and Billy Slater fronted a press conference in Federation Square this afternoon, alongside leaders from both sides including Penrith skipper Isaah Yeo.
Yeo said he’s looking forward to his Penrith teammate Dylan Edwards making his Blues debut, after it was so cruelly taken away from him ahead of Origin I
“He’s going well,” he said.
“He gets his opportunity now and I’m super excited for him, he’s been really good this week.”
Maguire said he believes the dramatic send-off that ruined his side’s chances in Origin I would help bring the team together at the MCG tomorrow night.
“We’ll be a stronger group for it,” he said.
“The way that the players rallied together through the game… there were a lot of good signs through the game.”
Today’s press conference saw journalists pushing Maguire on his “glass houses” comment, but he refused to confirm his comment earlier this month was about Slater.
A crowd of more than 80,000 is expected at the MCG tomorrow night.
Queensland lead the series 1-0 and can avoid a decider with a victory tomorrow night.
Troy Dodds
Troy Dodds is the Weekender's Managing Editor and Breaking News Reporter. He has more than 20 years experience as a journalist, working with some of Australia's leading media organisations. In 2023, he was named Editor of the Year at the Mumbrella Publish Awards.