Written by Megan Taylor, sports reporter covering international sports since 2020

Laurie Daley has drawn strong backing after New South Wales opened the 2026 State of Origin series with a dramatic comeback win over Queensland at Accor Stadium in Sydney.

The Blues fought back after Kalyn Ponga was sent off for his tackle on Tolu Koula, with James Tedesco scoring the late match-winning try to seal a 1-0 series lead.

Queensland will now have more selection issues before Game Two, with Queensland lose Pat Carrigan and Gehamat Shibasaki ahead of State of Origin II adding another layer to the build-up.

Daley defence sparks heated debate

Dean Ritchie argued on NRL360 that Daley deserved more credit for the result, despite debate over whether Ponga’s send-off changed the match.

“I was quite adamant about this, the state of NSW and some journos have shown Laurie Daley no respect whatsoever,” Ritchie said.

“The result was tainted to some degree because of the Kalyn Ponga send off, I get that. The bottom line is though, that NSW won the game.

“If Queensland won that game in the same manner, they are lauded as heroes but down here, we win the last minute and our coaching staff is criticised.

“For you (Brent Read) to come out and say that Laurie should have been sacked after 40 minutes of a three-game series, I thought was disrespectful and insulting to Laurie.”

Blues coach still under pressure

Brent Read pushed back, saying New South Wales’ first-half display left Daley open to criticism.

“I am not criticising Laurie’s record as a NSW player, I think he’s one of the great icons of Origin. Amazing footballer, great player,” he said.

“But as a coach, let’s cut to the chase, his record is appalling. One win in (six), this is his seventh series.

Braith Anasta said the debate around Daley would likely quieten if New South Wales win the series.

“I think Laurie will get that respect if he wins the series,” Anasta said.

Daley’s selections also drew praise, with Tedesco scoring the decisive try and Ethan Strange making a strong Origin debut after Mitchell Moses was ruled out late.

Fans can follow official scores, stats and updates through the NRL State of Origin match centre.