Maroons lead in Origin opener

Updated May 25, 2011 21:03:00

Queensland held a narrow 6-0 lead over New South Wales at half-time in the opening match of the 2011 State of Origin series at Lang Park in Brisbane.

Test half-back Johnathan Thurston scored a converted try in the fifth minute after Cam Smith found an opening in the Blues' defensive line with a grubber on the final tackle of the set.

The Maroons, who have won the last five series in a row, enjoyed the lion's share of possession in the opening half but a series of handling errors and some staunch Blues defence kept NSW in the contest.

The Blues struggled to gain field position and set up attacks, with Roosters' number 7 Mitchell Pearce handling most of the kicking responsibilities.

NSW debutant full-back Josh Dugan passed several tests set by the likes of Thurston and Darren Lockyer, who peppered the young Raider with a series of bombs.

Queensland will need to properly assess centre Willie Tonga, who struggled with a right shoulder injury for most of the first stanza.

QLD: 6 (J Thurston try; Thurston conversion)

NSW: 0

Tags: sport, rugby-league, state-of-origin, australia, nsw, sydney-2000, qld, brisbane-4000

First posted May 25, 2011 21:00:00

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