Queensland Maroons’ Team Selection for Game 2: A Closer Look
Queensland Maroons coach Billy Slater has made a few changes to his team ahead of the crucial Game 2 in Melbourne, but the overall approach remains largely the same as the opening match in Sydney. With the series now on the line, Slater is relying heavily on the core group that started the first game, making only one unforced change and two forced ones.
Here’s a breakdown of the key talking points surrounding the team selection and what it could mean for the Maroons’ chances of winning.
Is the Bench Balance Right?
The bench changes may not be headline news, but they are significant. Reece Walsh and Murray Taulagi have been brought into the squad, replacing Ezra Mam and the injured Gehamat Shibasaki. This move could leave the Maroons vulnerable, especially with Walsh being an out-and-out fullback. While the argument could have been made for his inclusion in Game 1, the fact remains that Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow can cover the backline, and Slater made a coaching error by not using Shibasaki after the send-off.
By adding both Walsh and Taulagi, who both cover the back five positions, Slater is taking a big risk. If either Cameron Munster or Sam Walker were to suffer an early injury, it would force Kalyn Ponga, who has limited experience at halfback, into the halves. This could prove to be a costly mistake if things don’t go their way.
A Debut for Kulikefu Finefeuiaki – But Why Not Start?
One of the biggest oversights from Game 1 was the omission of Kulikefu Finefeuiaki, who was part of the 20th man squad. He had the chance to learn from some of the game’s best players, and while he will now be on the bench, replacing Patrick Carrigan, it’s hard to understand why he wasn’t given a starting spot.
Instead, Briton Nikora has been promoted to start, despite average form leading into the series opener. While Nikora played well against the Dragons, it seems like Finefeuiaki and Heilum Luki, the new 20th man, were more deserving of those spots.
Why Keep Kalyn Ponga at Fullback?
Kalyn Ponga’s send-off was a defining moment of Game 1, and it dominated the post-match discussions. If the Maroons had kept 13 men on the field, it’s hard to see how the Blues would have managed to score three tries in an even contest. Despite this, Ponga had a strong first hour, showing leadership and barely putting a foot wrong.
Dropping him because of one moment would have created uncertainty within the team. By keeping him at fullback, Slater has confirmed that the Maroons have a clear game plan built around their spine and that they trust the group to win in Melbourne.
Should Murray Taulagi Have Been in the Starting Lineup?
Murray Taulagi’s inclusion on the bench raises questions about whether he should have been in the starting lineup. He has only played nine games this season, but since returning from a head knock, he has been consistent for the Cowboys. As an experienced Origin campaigner, Taulagi has rarely played poorly for the Maroons and has been in fine form this year.
Despite this, Slater chose to stick with the original starting side, which included Selwyn Cobbo and Jojo Fifita. While it’s hard to blame him for the decision, there’s a case to be made for Taulagi’s inclusion, especially given his experience and recent form.
Who Can Shut Down Cameron Murray?
One of the key turning points in Game 1 was Kalyn Ponga’s send-off, which allowed the Blues to gain momentum. However, another major moment that was overlooked was the impact of Cameron Murray. After 20 minutes, the Maroons were leading 18-0, but once Murray came on, Queensland didn’t score again.
Murray is one of the best locks in the game, and without him, the Maroons might have been further ahead when Ponga was sent off. To counter this, Slater needs someone like Reuben Cotter to play big minutes in the middle third, or perhaps Lindsay Collins, though his agility and speed may not be enough to keep up with Murray.
Max Plath’s Move to the Bench Was a Smart Call
One of the key differences between the Game 1 teams was the lack of a specialist dummy half on the Maroons’ bench. While the Blues brought Blayke Brailey onto the field, his fresh legs and running game caused problems for Queensland.
Max Plath’s inclusion on the bench allows the Maroons greater versatility. He can come on later in the game, either at dummy half or lock, and his running game will suit the middle period of the contest against tired defenders. Slater made the right call here.
