Blues storm back in Origin classic as Cleary and Tedesco break Queensland hearts

New South Wales completed a stunning comeback to snatch a 22-20 victory over Queensland in a classic State of Origin rugby league match at Accor Stadium in Sydney. More than 80,000 fans witnessed the dramatic turnaround on Wednesday night.

Queensland had dominated the first half, establishing a commanding 20-6 lead. Debutant halfback Sam Walker orchestrated their attack, setting up three tries and converting them all. Cameron Munster and Kalyn Ponga also played key roles in Queensland's early dominance, with Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow scoring their fourth try.

The turning point came in the second half after a significant tackle by NSW debutant Ethan Strange on Munster seemed to ignite the Blues. Despite Queensland controlling much of the possession, the game shifted dramatically after Ponga was sent off in the 58th minute following a collision. With an extra player, New South Wales surged back.

Ethan Strange crossed the try line to narrow the deficit, followed by a try from Nathan Cleary, who also brought the Blues within four points with less than 10 minutes remaining. In the dying moments, with just over a minute left, Cleary kicked a towering bomb that captain James Tedesco caught above the pack to score a historic match-winning try. Cleary calmly converted to seal the improbable victory.

While Munster, Ponga, and Walker shone for Queensland, Cleary, Tedesco, and Strange inspired the Blues' second-half revival. The series will continue with Game Two in Melbourne on June 17, followed by Game Three in Brisbane on July 8. Notably, the New South Wales women's team has already secured their series.