The NSW Origin team for Game 2 in 2024 includes:
- Dylan Edwards
- Brian To’o
- Stephen Crichton
- Latrell Mitchell
- Zac Lomax
- Jarome Luai
- Mitchell Moses
The New South Wales Blues have announced their squad for Game 2 of the 2024 State of Origin series, making several strategic changes following their previous performance. The lineup showcases a blend of seasoned veterans and emerging talents, aiming to fortify the team’s dynamics and secure a victory.
Dylan Edwards steps into the fullback position, bringing his agility and keen game sense to the forefront. His inclusion is a tactical move by coach Michael Maguire, who seeks to inject fresh energy into the team’s spine. Brian To’o and Stephen Crichton, both from the Panthers, join forces on the wings, offering speed and reliability in finishing plays.
Centre positions are filled by Latrell Mitchell and Zac Lomax, whose powerful runs and defensive prowess are expected to be key assets. The halves will see Jarome Luai pairing with Mitchell Moses, combining Luai’s creative playmaking with Moses’ precision kicking game.
The forward pack is yet to be confirmed, but it is anticipated that there will be a mix of robust tackling machines and dynamic ball-runners to dominate the middle of the park. The bench is also expected to feature impact players who can maintain the intensity throughout the match.
After a 38-10 loss in Game 1, these changes reflect Maguire’s intent to recalibrate the team’s strategy. The inclusion of Edwards and Moses is particularly noteworthy, as they replace James Tedesco and Nicho Hynes, indicating a significant shift in the team’s approach.
The Blues’ preparation for Game 2 has been rigorous, with an emphasis on addressing the shortcomings of their previous outing. Training sessions have been intense, focusing on defensive structures and attacking formations that leverage the strengths of the new lineup.
As anticipation builds for Game 2, fans and analysts alike are keen to see how these changes will translate on the field. The pressure is on for the NSW Blues to deliver a performance that not only levels the series but also reasserts their dominance in the State of Origin arena.
For more comprehensive coverage and analysis, enthusiasts can follow updates from sports news outlets like Nine.com.au and The Roar, which provide in-depth insights into team selections and game strategies.
This pivotal match promises to be a thrilling encounter as the NSW Blues strive to overcome their adversaries with renewed vigor and strategic acumen. All eyes will be on this talented squad as they take to the field, determined to showcase their skills and secure a much-needed victory for their state.
nsw blues team game 2
When New South Wales succumbed in the State of Origin series opener against Queensland last year, coach Brad Fittler responded swiftly with a plethora of changes.
Matt Burton, Angus Crichton, Clint Gutherson, Jordan McLean, Victor Radley, Siosifa Talakai, and Jake Trbojevic were all inducted into the squad for game two.
These modifications bore fruit as the Blues surged to a resounding 44-12 victory over the Maroons, thereby equalizing the series.
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While the Blues’ 26-18 defeat to Queensland in Adelaide was not entirely unforeseen, given pre-game prognostications, the manner of the loss was particularly disconcerting.
The Blues executed 39 tackles within the opposition’s 20-meter zone, compared to 14 for the Maroons, yet managed two fewer tries, disintegrating late in the match even with a Queensland player sidelined.
Although it is early days, and much could transpire before Fittler announces his squad for the pivotal second game at Suncorp, questions loom: whose position is secure and whose place is precarious? Foxsports.com.au delves into these inquiries and more in an exhaustive NSW selection guide preceding game two.
FULLBACK: James Tedesco (UNDER THREAT)
Will Tedesco, the team captain, be ousted for Game 2? Likely not. Fittler’s allegiance to his players is a hallmark trait, though it may also be his Achilles’ heel, potentially jeopardizing his coaching tenure.
Post-defeat, Fittler enacted sweeping changes last year, yet none equaled the stature of Tedesco within the team.
Tedesco’s performance on Wednesday was forgettable. With 20 Origin matches under his belt, he entered the field as NSW’s most capped player. However, experience doesn’t always translate to triumph.
Tedesco’s blunders were twofold: first, slipping as Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow breezed past him to score, a lapse compounded by teammates’ initial miss of Cameron Munster; second, being out-jumped by Roosters comrade Lindsay Collins, resulting in Munster’s game-winning try.
Such errors contributed to Queensland’s scores, but more troubling to Fittler would have been an earlier moment in the first half. With a two-on-one advantage and Josh Addo-Carr unmarked, Tedesco took on Murray Taulagi instead.
This misjudgment underscored a larger issue with Tedesco at fullback. Despite his tireless work rate, which included 22 runs for 182 meters and six tackle busts, his presence often hindered more than helped within the Queensland red zone.
Former Blues player Ryan Girdler, speaking on Triple M, highlighted the disarray in NSW’s attack, attributing it to the lack of synergy between Luai, Cleary, and Tedesco.
A potential solution could be introducing Panthers fullback Dylan Edwards, whose reliability in defense and synergy with Luai, Cleary, and Koroisau could provide the necessary balance. However, Fittler must consider whether the predominance of Panthers players stifles the Blues’ distinct attacking identity.
Alternatively, Latrell Mitchell could be positioned at fullback, though his return from a calf strain and lower work rate compared to Tedesco or Edwards might be limiting factors. Mitchell’s inclusion could be strategized for attacking formations even if he doesn’t wear the No.1 jersey.
Statistical comparisons for the 2023 season offer insight:
2023 STATS (average)
DYLAN EDWARDS
Run meters: 182
Kick return meters: 58
Tackle busts: 6.5
Try assists: 0.4
Linebreak assists: 0.6
Total try involvements: 1.09
Kicks defused rate: 70.8%
JAMES TEDESCO
Run meters: 145
Kick return meters: 48
Tackle busts: 4.8
Try assists: 0.4
Linebreak assists: 0.4
Total try involvements: 0.7
Kicks defused rate: 88.9%
LATRELL MITCHELL
Run meters: 94
Kick return meters: 31
Tackle busts: 5.3
Try assists: 0.7
Linebreak assists: 1.3
Total try involvements: 2.1
Kicks defused rate: 65.2%
WINGERS: Brian To’o (SAFE) and Josh Addo-Carr (SAFE)
To’o and Addo-Carr were not the reasons for the Blues’ downfall. A switch back to their respective positions in their club teams could enhance their performance.
To’o’s tireless runs, amassing 201 meters with 70 post-contact, and Addo-Carr’s speed remain crucial assets. To’o, leading with 201 run meters and Addo-Carr’s potential, offer explosive and valuable carries.
CENTRES: Stephen Crichton (UNDER THREAT) and Tom Trbojevic (SAFE)
Crichton’s threat in the air and consistent performance, marked by 119 meters and three tackle busts, underscore his potential, yet Mitchell’s return could displace him.
Trbojevic, despite a concussion symptom, remains integral, though he might miss Manly’s game. His game-breaking ability and roaming threat are invaluable.
HALVES: Jarome Luai (UNDER THREAT) and Nathan Cleary (SAFE)
While Luai’s unpredictability and decisive play against Queensland were evident, Fittler is unlikely to drop Cleary. Hynes, as the reigning Dally M medallist, deserves consideration for a starting spot.
Cleary’s subdued performance, with just five runs for 26 meters, highlighted a need for a more assertive approach. Girdler emphasized Cleary’s potential when running the ball, which could elevate his game.
FRONT ROWERS: Tevita Pangai Junior (UNDER THREAT), Payne Haas (SAFE)
Pangai Junior’s impactful runs were notable, but a more disciplined alternative like Spencer Leniu could be considered. Haas, though safe, might benefit from better-utilized interchanges to maximize his field time.
HOOKER: Apisai Koroisau (SAFE)
Koroisau’s crisp service and defensive prowess solidify his position. The possibility of Cook’s recall on the bench poses a tactical dilemma for Fittler.
BACK-ROW: Tyson Frizell (SAFE), Hudson Young (UNDER THREAT), Isaah Yeo (SAFE)
Frizell’s industrious play and Yeo’s defensive contributions ensure their safety. Young’s aggression, while commendable, requires more focus, though he deserves another chance.
BENCH: Junior Paulo (SAFE), Cameron Murray (SAFE), Liam Martin (SAFE), Nicho Hynes (UNDER THREAT)
Paulo and Murray’s versatility and Martin’s defensive impact make them indispensable. Hynes’ underutilization suggests a reevaluation of his role, despite Alexander’s confidence in his utility.
As the countdown to game two continues, Fittler faces the arduous task of balancing loyalty with strategic necessity to secure a crucial victory.