BEN CREAGH
9 - The big second-rower crossed in the 19th minute to score NSW's first try and pulled off a big hit on Queensland's Sam Thaiday a few minutes later. Looked dangerous on the left-hand side every time he had the ball and made Queensland pay for missed tackles in the 66th minute when he stepped two defenders to plant the ball for NSW to lead 26-16. Sent to the sin bin for a push on Justin Hodges in the 80th minute.
JUSTIN POORE
7 - Ripped into the Maroons from the opening whistle and appeared much more focused and determined than in game two. Used in spits and spurts with the other props - Josh Perry and Brett White - and didn't seem to get enough on-field time to make a real impact even though he topped the NSW hit-up count with nine.
Full coverage of The St George Illawarra DragonsDARIUS BOYD
7.5 - Kept very quiet in the first half except for a 40m dash down the right wing off a Justin Hodges break before passing inside to Brett Kimmorley. Safe under a couple of kicks but didn't see much ball until he pushed off his opposite Jarryd Hayne and beat all but Gidley on a great run down the touchline in the 75th minute. All the play seemed to go towards Willie Tonga and Greg Inglis on the other wing.
NEV COSTIGAN
6 - Warmed the bench in the first half and only came on in the 57th minute when the Maroons were desperate for troops. Pulled off a big hit on NSW fullback Kurt Gidley in the 64th minute. Was caught with the ball in the 72nd minute by David Williams when Queensland had a two-man overlap. Got involved in some push and shove in a crazy final few minutes.
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