The Queensland Maroons have set up a series decider after humiliating the NSW Blues in Melbourne. So, what needs to change for the Blues and what did the Maroons do different to spark such a stunning turnaround? In my opinion, the Blues need to focus on their attack and break out of structured ball. They need to offload the ball and attack out of dummy-half, which is the simplest way to attack but also the most dangerous. This is something they didn't do well in Game I, where they didn't score a point until Kalyn Ponga was sent off. One thing that immediately stands out is the performance of Selwyn Cobbo, who is enjoying arguably his career-best form. His inclusion provided the Maroons with an aerial threat that the Blues lacked in Game I. This is a key area where the Blues need to improve, as they were exposed by Cobbo's ability to produce points from almost anywhere on the field. In contrast, the Maroons' aerial assault was a key factor in their success, with Jojo Fifita showcasing his elite wingers' ability to leap and score from kicks. This raises a deeper question: how can the Blues improve their aerial defense and counter the Maroons' aerial threat? The Maroons' success also highlights the importance of team balance and selection. The Blues' coach, Laurie Daley, has a tough couple of weeks on his hands as he prepares to finalise his squad for the series-decider at Suncorp Stadium on July 8. He needs to make some tough decisions, such as whether to keep Sam Walker in the No.7 jersey or replace him with Tom Dearden. Walker has been outstanding in the series, but Dearden is a fit and healthy option who has never failed to deliver at Origin level. The Blues also need to consider the impact of players like Latrell Mitchell and Tom Trbojevic, who will be available for selection after long injury lay-offs. In conclusion, the Maroons' stunning turnaround highlights the importance of team balance, selection, and aerial threat. The Blues need to focus on their attack and improve their aerial defense to stand a chance of winning the series decider at Suncorp Stadium.
