NSW have finally held their first full training session ahead of Wednesday’s must-win second State of Origin clash, with the injured brigade all taking part in Friday morning’s session.
Skipper Paul Gallen, fullback Brett Stewart and interchange forward Anthony Watmough – all on restricted programs earlier in the week – took part in the run at WIN Jubilee Oval which featured a number of opposed drills.
None of the trio appeared in any discomfort and interchange forward Ben Creagh insisted the injuries had made little impact on the team’s preparations for the ANZ Stadium match as they’d faced a similar situation before game one in Melbourne.
“There was a few guys out with a few niggly injuries last camp and we managed to work our way through that and it’s the same this camp,” Creagh said.
“It’s a massive game for us on Wednesday. We were in a similar position last year (down 1-0) so we know how to handle it.
“Preparation’s been good and that’s the key leading into Wednesday night, but ultimately it comes down to the 80 minutes and we know that.”
The Blues had some interested onlookers as they were put through their paces, with Australian cricket captain Michael Clarke and Cricket Australia’s general manager of team performance and former Wallaby Pat Howard in attendance.