Corey Norman backed to kick-start stagnant Queensland attack
Corey Norman has emerged as the man who could finally bring Queensland's attack to life in the Origin series, with the Dragons playmaker being backed to survive and thrive in the pressure cooker of a series decider in enemy territory.
In a series where Kalyn Ponga has been one of the sole creative sparks for Queensland, having a hand in a pair of tries in the opener, have had to search for points, with an intercept and a penalty try helping them get on the scoreboard over the first two contests.
With Ponga missing through injury, Cameron Munster has moved to fullback and Norman has been installed at five-eighth in his debut. It's an immense task but those who know him best, as well as some Maroons greats, believe he can be the change-up the Maroons need if they are to steal the series against the odds.
Dragons teammate Euan Aitken said Norman would stand and be counted against the Blues and wasn't the type of player to drop his head if he made an early error. With the NSW defensive line almost certain to test him in the opening exchanges, that sort of temperament could be crucial.
"He's one of those players that not a lot worries him. If he does something wrong, it's not going to affect his whole game. Even if the team is having a flat patch, he will still take things play by play and that's what makes him so good," Aitken said.
"He plays what's in front of him, he's got a good kicking game. He'll help [Daly] Cherry-Evans in the halves. I think this has probably made them a stronger side. I think getting a genuine half and putting Munster in the back actually strengthens them. Obviously it was a disappointment for them to lose Ponga but they are in good hands."
Coach Kevin Walters had the opportunity to play more conservatively and select the experienced Michael Morgan at No.6; instead, he decided to give Norman the chance to start and become a vital cog in the Maroons movements.
Queensland great Steve Renouf said it was the right play and wanted Norman to carry the same levels of confidence he had in club football. His state was depending on it after a horrid game two in Perth.
"He [Walters] has shown a lot of faith given it's his debut. He's come in to play in a key position. Corey has had a really good year, he's playing with confidence and he doesn't lack confidence," Renouf said.
"That's what they will be asking of him on Wednesday night, to come out and play your game and back yourself. Play with that confidence.
"I suppose you could say Cherry-Evans hasn't really been able to use his full running game either, so this may end up really benefiting Queensland if Corey backs himself to play what's in front of him and take them on when he sees a chance.
"They need Corey to bring that confidence to this team. It's Origin and you can get found out but I think he will relish it."
Aitken said Norman's laidback attitude could sometimes lead people to suggest he doesn't care enough about the result. That couldn't be further from the truth, according to the St George-Illawarra centre.
"I feel like that's a by-product of having that sort of attitude ... sometimes people may not think he cares enough. But he definitely cares, he's all about winning and his attitude to games is really good.
"That is what makes him such a good player ... he doesn't get stressed too easily so in tight matches he is happy to take a shot and he bounces back very quickly from an error. He will take his opportunities when they present on Wednesday."