Queensland Maroons Clinch State of Origin Series with Stunning Win

In a remarkable display of skill and resilience, the Queensland Maroons secured the State of Origin series title by defeating the New South Wales Blues 24-12 in Game 3, held at Accor Stadium in Sydney on July 9, 2025. The victory marked Queensland's 25th series win and showcased an impressive performance, particularly from halfback Tom Dearden, who was awarded man of the match.

The Maroons' triumph was rooted in a flawless first half, where they completed all 21 sets and capitalized on their scoring opportunities, establishing a commanding 20-0 lead by halftime. Queensland's defense was equally formidable, consistently thwarting the Blues' attempts to gain momentum. Despite a late try from New South Wales' Stephen Crichton, which briefly ignited hope among local fans, Dearden's late-game score sealed the Maroons' victory.

Queensland captain Cameron Munster, who faced personal challenges with the recent loss of his father, expressed gratitude towards his teammates and the rugby league community. "The stars aligned tonight for me," Munster stated post-match, reflecting on the emotional weight of the game.

Contrastingly, the Blues, who entered the match with high expectations following a narrow loss in Game 2, struggled to adapt to Queensland's aggressive defense. Halfback Nathan Cleary expressed disappointment, stating, "It just wasn’t good enough, and at the end of the day, we probably didn’t react well enough to their rushing defense."

This victory for Queensland not only reestablishes their dominance in the State of Origin series but also reinforces the coaching prowess of Billy Slater, who has now led the Maroons to three series victories in four years. Slater's decision to replace former captain Daly Cherry-Evans after a disappointing Game 1 further exemplifies his strategic acumen and bold leadership.

Historically, Queensland's win is particularly significant as it marks the first time they have come back to win two games in a series away from Brisbane after losing the opening match. The Maroons' ability to overcome adversity and secure the championship reflects their resilience and tactical superiority, setting a benchmark for future encounters in the fierce rivalry of State of Origin.

As the rugby league community celebrates this achievement, the focus will shift to the upcoming challenges for both teams in the next series. Analysts are keen to see how New South Wales will regroup and adjust their strategies while Queensland aims to maintain their winning momentum. The implications of this series extend beyond mere statistics, influencing player selections, coaching decisions, and the overall landscape of Australian rugby league.