Andrew Johns Praises Max Plath’s Tactical Inclusion in Queensland Side
NSW Blues legend Andrew Johns has highlighted the strategic decision to include Max Plath in the Queensland team for the upcoming Origin game. He believes that Plath’s presence at lock could be a game-changer, particularly in targeting Nathan Cleary. The Maroons fans have been celebrating Billy Slater’s choice to reward Plath for his impressive performances with the Dolphins this season.
Plath has shown remarkable versatility by playing both as a dummy-half and lock for the Dolphins. His consistent energy and adaptability make him a strong fit for the Origin arena. Slater has taken a bold step by selecting Plath as a starting player for his debut, which is expected to bring a new dynamic to the Queensland side.
Johns has stated that Plath is one of the players who poses the biggest threat to the Blues in the opening game. Slater has consistently developed strategies to neutralize Cleary’s impact on the field. The Queensland forwards’ ability to rush up and apply pressure on Isaah Yeo at lock and then on Cleary has reduced the time available for the Blues halfback to make critical decisions.
The fast-paced defensive line, as seen in Game 3 last year, has often left Cleary struggling to control the game. This approach was also used successfully by Bulldogs coach Cameron Ciraldo when his team defeated the Panthers earlier this year.
Johns believes that if the Queensland team executes this strategy again, Plath could play a pivotal role in their success. “If the foot soldiers do their job, I think Max Plath at lock will be a masterstroke. He will just be getting out and harassing the first-receivers,” Johns said on Channel Nine.
He further explained that the Bulldogs’ strategy of harassing Nathan Cleary from the inside forced him to play early, creating an umbrella defense. This approach effectively nullified the attack on Latrell Mitchell in Game 3 last year. “Queensland will be jamming hard. That will be Max Plath’s job. He will be agitating, just screaming from the inside at marker as the first defender. I think it is a great selection.”
Plath has long been considered for a Queensland debut, but injuries have delayed his inclusion. The 24-year-old has been in exceptional form and will start over Patrick Carrigan in the game.
Reece Walsh Omitted from Queensland Squad
Another significant decision made by Billy Slater ahead of Game 1 was the omission of Reece Walsh from the squad. The Broncos fullback was a surprise exclusion from the Maroons’ team for Origin 1 and wasn’t even included in the 20-man squad.
Many believed that even if Walsh wasn’t starting, he would be valuable off the bench. This led to speculation about why he was left out for Game 1. However, Slater addressed the concerns and clarified that he and Walsh are on good terms.
“I’m not surprised by any narrative that gets thrown around in this game,” Slater said. “I get that everyone has an opinion and what they want to say, but I’ve got a great relationship with Reece. We’ve been connected for about five years. Ever since he’s been in the NRL to be honest. I’ve got a lot of time for him and I’m sure he’ll earn his opportunity to play in this jersey in the future.”
Despite being left out, many are predicting that Walsh will eventually make his way into the side during the series, given his talent and potential.
