Suncorp holds no fears for Freddy's Blues
It’s long been a graveyard for NSW teams, but Suncorp Stadium holds no fears for the current batch of Blues as they attempt to create history in enemy territory.
Only seven members of Brad Fittler’s team – James Tedesco, James Maloney, David Klemmer, Boyd Cordner, Tyson Frizell and Jake Trbojevic – have experienced a State of Origin encounter on Queensland’s home turf.
The Maroons have a formidable record at Suncorp, which has been a fortress during their run of 11 series wins over 12 years. However, the majority of the current Blues are unscarred by previous defeats and are welcoming the opportunity to complete a whitewash in the hostile arena.
“Bloody oath,” said NSW fullback Tedesco.
“Obviously we’re happy with the first two games, and to get a win up there and make it 3-0 will be awesome.
“Obviously it’s good to have that experience of playing up there before, but a lot of the guys who haven’t played up there will take it as a big opportunity.
“I don’t think it will get to them too much. That showed that in the first two games. They didn’t show too many nerves.
“Obviously it will be a big atmosphere there, but we’re just keen to get out there. It’s a different experience, 50,000 people booing you, but it’s all part of it and we’re looking forward to the experience.”
Super-sub Tyrone Peachey is part of the next generation of Blues, yet to experience a loss at Origin level. The Panthers star is keen to keep the record intact as the series shifts north.
“I’ve heard it’s very hostile towards the Blues. I expect nothing less,” Peachey said.
“I’ve played there a few times, a couple of finals games, and it was pretty packed. People said it’s nothing you’ve ever experienced before. The last game was probably the biggest crowd I’ve ever played at and it was amazing. Hopefully we’ll go up there and come away with a win … it would be good for the young blokes involved in the team, hopefully start a new dynasty.”
Asked what he was expecting from the Queensland fans, Peachey grinned: “They said they spray you, they’re relentless, they don’t give a crap who you are or anything like that.
“It would be good, I can’t wait to experience it and see what it’s like.”
Hooker Damien Cook added: “I’m looking forward to getting up there and hopefully get a win in front of a big crowd.
“All of us are looking forward to getting up there and playing a really good brand of footy. We’re going up to get the win and finally lift that shield.”
Queensland has been accused of hijacking a rare NSW series victory by turning Game III into a celebration of all things Maroon. While tributes have been prepared for Cameron Smith and Billy Slater, the Blues are ready to crash the party.
“It’s something you’ll never experience in any other game or other venue,” Frizell said of the Suncorp experience.
“It is enjoyable, as much as you get yelled at, it’s one of the best games you’ll ever play.”