Footy fans demand ‘ridiculous’ State of Origin tradition thrown out after ’embarrassing’ scene after NSW win Game Three
Fed-up footy fans have called for the ‘ridiculous’ State of Origin tradition to be scrapped after ’embarrassing’ scenes in Sydney on Wednesday night.
Brad Fittler’s Blues salvaged some pride after a 24-10 victory at Acre Stadium, but were left reeling moments later when Maroons captain Daley Cherry-Evans lifted the trophy.
Given Queensland had already wrapped up the series, many supporters felt the honor should have been held after the second game at Suncorp Stadium on June 21.
The opinion gained even more traction as scores of NSW fans left the ground as Cherry-Evans enjoyed his moment in enemy territory.
And it didn’t take long for fans to voice their opinions on social media.
Many football fans feel Daley-Cherry Evans should have lifted the Origin trophy after the Maroons won the second game and series at home last month.
Journalist Ed Jackson spoke for many when he tweeted: ‘This game proves again why shields should be presented when a series is won. A bit hollow for both teams.’
‘What a feeling for the lads to be drafted for NSW. Now sit back after a well-earned victory and watch the opposition lift the trophy. Rough,’ tweeted another.
One die-hard Queensland supporter weighed in: ‘This is why states should be allowed to give away their shields in a second match if they win in their home state. Worth lifting that shield at Suncorp Qld.’
Billy Slater’s wife Nicole told Channel 9 after the game that it was strange to lift the silverware – despite losing Game Three in emphatic fashion.
She said, ‘Going from being a player’s wife to being a coach’s wife is amazing.’
Brad Fittler’s Blues retain some pride after 24-10 win in Game 3 at Acre Stadium
The ongoing power struggle between the NRL and the Rugby League Players’ Association has also meant fans haven’t heard from two-try hero Bradman Best (pictured left).
‘He handled it with such grace. Obviously there’s an odd feeling tonight, but overall he couldn’t be prouder.’
And because of the ongoing power struggle between the NRL and the Rugby League Players’ Association (RLPA), fans are short-changed when it comes to live TV interactions with their heroes.
In a farcical scene at half-time, Channel 9’s Danica Mason interviewed colleague and former NSW captain Paul Gallen as players from both sides made their way to the sheds.
When Cherry-Evans later broke his silence on stage, plenty of NSW fans would have loved to hear two-try hero Bradman Best’s thoughts after his impressive debut and Man of the Match Cody Walker.
Fittler’s tenure as head coach remains up in the air after this series, but he appears to be on loan, with Michael Maguire a likely replacement in 2024.