A great defensive effort has seen New South Wales take back bragging rights at the under-18 level, defeating Queensland 26-0 at Suncorp Stadium.
Queensland got off to the worst possible start with an error inside the first minute.
The Blues spread it from the scrum and winger Zac Lomax dived over in the corner.
Penrith’s Sean O’Sullivan missed the tough conversion and New South Wales lead 4-0.
New South Wales extended their lead in the 11th minute, after Isaac Lumelume batted back a Dean Blore bomb straight to Samuel Radovu who scored.
Another missed conversion and the Blues lead 8-0.
Despite the scoreline, the Maroons had a number of chances close to the Blues’ line but were unable to score.
Two minutes before the half time break, a shift wide saw Lumelume set up his centre Tui Afualo for the Blues’ third try.
O’Sullivan was unsuccessful again and New South Wales lead 12-0 at the break.
The Blues were opened the scoring in the second half, with Lomax grabbing his second.
Cameron Murray split the line and found his fullback Ryan Papenhuyzen who scored under the posts.
Zac Lomax converted from in front to extend the Blues’ lead to 22-0.
Queensland’s attack looked directionless and a number of errors didn’t help.
New South Wales pushed the lead out to 26 after Afualo set up Lumelume in the corner.
The Maroons had a chance to register points in the final minute but a poor 5th tackle option hurt them again.
New South Wales regaining the Under 18 Origin shield with a resounding 26-0 victory.
New South Wales U18 26 (Zac Lomax 2, Tui Afualo, Isaac Lumelume, Ryan Papenhuyzen, Samuel Radovu tries; Zac Lomax 1 goal) def. Queensland U18 0 at Suncorp Stadium.
18TH MAN 