In the lead-up to the third and deciding Origin match last night the
“passion” Ricky Stuart instilled in the NSW Blues was reminiscent of what used
to happen with the Qld Maroons – and any Origin team that combines superior
ability and size with passion is always going to be very hard to beat.

Much of the credit for the Blues thoroughly well deserved series win,
and its absolutely dominant victory in the decider, is being given to Andrew
Johns. And deservedly so – he was
in devastating form (again).

But I give a substantial share of the credit to
the coach, Ricky Stuart, who has effectively lifted the “passion” the Maroons
have thrived on for 25 years and implanted it in the NSW Blues players with
devastating impact.

A full report is on the website here.