How the Blues pulled off a miracle to lead at half-time
New South Wales have snatched two tries despite being down a man in the final moments of the first half.
James Maloney was sin-binned for a professional foul in the 30th minute of the first half, and it opened the floodgates for both sides to attack.
Queensland were able to strike first, capitalising on the penalty by adding a further two points to Valentine Holmes’ earlier converted try.
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What an amazing performance by the Blues. Probably the best defensive half I have ever seen. And then to respond with two tries for a half-time lead. With bugger-all possession and way behind on penalties. And at the cauldron. #origin
— James Smith Inside Sport (@JamesSmith1001) July 11, 2018
How on earth are NSW leading at half-time after all that Queensland pressure. The Blues go down to 12 and score two tries while James Maloney is off the field. You couldn't make this up. #Origin
— Martyn Sadler (@MartynSadler) July 11, 2018
Queensland 68 per cent of possession, 29 tackles inside Blues' 20m zone to NSW's 3 in theirs. Five penalties to one, but somehow NSW score two tries with 12 men to lead 12-8. #Origin
— Scott Bailey (@ScottBaileyAAP) July 11, 2018
Tom Trbojevic kicked off the amazing comeback when he intercepted a long-pass from Cameron Munster, running the length of the field to get NSW on the scoreboard.
With James Maloney sidelined Nathan Cleary stepped up to the tee to convert the try, bringing NSW within two points of Queensland.
Shortly after, and against the odds, the Blues crossed again when James Tedesco scored directly under the posts.
Despite being down a man, New South Wales were able to take a 12-8 lead into the half-time break.
