NSW have pulled off their biggest comeback in State of Origin history, storming back from a 20-0 deficit to snatch a 22-20 victory over Queensland in a drama-filled series opener.
The Maroons were the dominant side early on, but the entire game flipped on its head during a chaotic second half at Accor Stadium, leaving Queensland fans heartbroken.
The game’s turning point arrived in the 57th minute when a runaway Tolutau Koula tore downfield for the Blues.
In a desperate bid to shut down the break, Maroons fullback Kalyn Ponga lunged into a heavy cover-defending tackle.
Referee Ashley Klein controversially deemed the hit a shoulder charge with direct contact to the head, making Ponga just the seventh player in Origin history to be sent off.
While Queensland was forced to play out the remainder of the match a man down, NSW turned the screws, capped off with a match-winning try by fullback James Tedesco at the death.
In a silver lining for disappointed Maroons fans, Ponga managed to escape suspension for the hit, meaning he will be free to play game two in Melbourne.
He’s been hit with a Grade 2 Shoulder Charge by the match review committee, which carries a fine of 23% of his match fee with an early guilty plea or 33% if he challenges it and is unsuccessful.
Ponga spoke to reporters post-game, admitting he was “not proud” of the incident.
“I’m not proud of it, obviously,” Ponga said.
“The boys had to work a lot harder because of me being off the field, so that’s something that I’m not proud of”.
Hooker Harry Grant was also charged for a careless high tackle on Ethan Strange late in the game. He’ll cop a 7% fine with an early plea, or 10% if he challenges it.
Origin action now heads to the MCG for Game Two on June 17, where Queensland will be looking to exact revenge and level the series.
