The NSW Blues have pulled off what has been labelled by commentator Mat Thompson as a \u201cheist for the ages\u201d with a series-clinching win over Queensland at Suncorp Stadium on Wednesday night.<\/p>\n
An early Nathan Cleary double got the Blues off to a flyer, and from there they never looked back, running out 30-12 winners.<\/p>\n
It is just the fourth decider the Blues have ever won at Suncorp, and now all that is left to do for NSW is to celebrate.<\/p>\n
\u201cThey were miles off the pace in Melbourne. It\u2019s incredible,\u201d NSW legend Andrew Johns exclaimed in commentary.<\/p>\n
It wasn\u2019t without controversy, however, with the Blues were controversially awarded a crucial try to extend their lead to 16 points as the Bunker cleared a potential knock-on from Bostock before Bradman Best ran away to score a match-defining try.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe can\u2019t get that wrong,\u201d Cameron Smith said in commentary.<\/p>\n
\u201cI can\u2019t get over that call from the Bunker. There is a clear touch by Bostock.\u201d<\/p>\n
But it wasn\u2019t all smooth sailing for the Blues, with James Tedesco and Jack Bostock ruled out of the game with concussions.<\/p>\n
Even still, the Blues were too strong, soaking up the Maroons\u2019 second-half onslaught to secure an 18-point victory.<\/p>\n
While for Cleary, he has cemented his Origin legacy, officially silencing his doubters as he was awarded the Wally Lewis Medal for player of the series.<\/p>\n
Cleary put on a first-half masterclass, with a double and a one-on-one strip that led directly to Cameron Murray\u2019s try.<\/p>\n
In the second half, his kicking game and poise led from the front.<\/p>\n
Post-game, Phil Gould slammed the narrative about the Panthers superstar failing to own an Origin series, which Wednesday\u2019s result puts to bed once and for all.<\/p>\n
\u201cI find that commentary really lazy and really lame,\u201d he said on Nine.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt\u2019s an unfair expectation. They put on these playmakers that suddenly they have to dominate Origin to be recognised as an Origin player. He\u2019s an outstanding Origin player. He\u2019s a champion footballer, cometh the hour, cometh the champion.<\/p>\n
\u201cWhat more do you want? This rubbish about dominating – I find that ridiculous.\u201d<\/p>\n
Catch up on all the action and drama from the State of Origin decider below.<\/p>\n