PLAYER RATINGS FOR THE MAROONS FOR STATE OF ORIGIN III:
1. DARIUS BOYD – Struggled to get involved, especially with NSW dominating possession. Pounced to score another Origin try but it wouldn’t be the match-winner. 6
2. COREY OATES – Tried to get involved at times through the middle to ease burden on forwards and ran over 140 metres. 7
3. GREG INGLIS – Started brilliantly with his 18th Origin try and ran for 120 metres, got through plenty of defence too. 6.5
4. JUSTIN O’NEILL – A solid effort to complete an impressive debut Origin campaign. Makes some very good reads in defence. 6
5. DANE GAGAI – Went missing at times. A disappointing end to an otherwise strong series. 5
6. JOHNATHAN THURSTON – Was probably kept too busy in defence to really trouble the NSW line with the ball. Also missed two shots on goal. Still had a hand in two of Queensland’s tries however. 6
7. COOPER CRONK – Sin-binned in the first half for a professional foul. Made a sensational tackle to stop James Tedesco in the dying minutes. Gives his all. 6.5
8. MATT SCOTT – The veteran prop got through a mountain of work in his time on the field, it’s just a shame he was only out there for 43 minutes. 6
9. CAMERON SMITH (c) – Named man of the series and Queensland’s best on the night. Just oozes class every time he plays. 8
10. NATE MYLES – Came into the game under an injury cloud and only played 30 minutes. Time may be up for this Maroon warrior. 5.5
11. MATT GILLETT – Some are speculating he could be Smith’s successor as captain. Had a great night in a beaten team. 7.5
12. SAM THAIDAY – Solid effort but also only played 44 minutes. 6
13. COREY PARKER – Leaves Origin having given it all. His 19th game for his state was like the others, whole-hearted and full of effort. One of the Maroons’ best. 7.5
INTERCHANGE:
14. GAVIN COOPER – Scored a try on debut running alongside good mate Thurston. A long wait for the chance but didn’t let his state down. 6.5
15. JOSH McGUIRE- Lots of energy off the bench. Has become a real Origin player and should be given a starting role next year. 7
16. AIDEN GUERRA – Might find his Queensland spot in jeopardy. A quiet night in a quiet series during a quiet season. 5.5
17. JACOB LILLYMAN – Solid effort off the bench without being spectacular. 6