Queensland lost the opening game but still clinched the series with a 16-10 victory at ANZ Stadium in match memorable for its toughness, occasional spite and the athleticism of Maroons two-try hero Israel Folau.

NSW had plenty of half chances and enough possession, but couldn't find the try-line and scored just one try in the final two games.

The much-hyped halves combination of Roosters pair Braith Anasta and debutant Mitchell Pearce failed to fire and NSW barely made a clean break in a game dominated by the forward packs.

Sharks skipper Paul Gallen again showed his lack of discipline giving away senseless penalties, including one which allowed Queensland to tie the score 10-10.

New Blues coach Craig Bellamy must have a problem with Manly players after dropping NSW's best attacking option Brett Stewart to the bench and opting for Newcastle's Kurt Gidley to start.

Gidley played well but no Manly player in the NSW squad is an indictment to the club leading the NRL.

Expect plenty of changes next season, not least perhaps Bellamy, who has yet to commit to coaching in 2009. Skipper Danny Buderus has retired, Craig Fitzgibbon has likely played his last Origin game and surely Willie Mason has, while the likes of Anasta, Anthony Quinn, Joel Monaghan and Anthony Laffranci will struggle to win back their jumpers.

There was some good news for Illawarra fans on Origin night with the Illawarra rep team beating Townsville 20-18 in the curtain-raiser to claim the Centenary Trophy.