Queensland captain Greg Inglis has praised his Maroons after going 22-12 in State of Origin I at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

It was the dawn of a new era for both sides but it was the baby Blues who held on to claim early series bragging rights.

“I can’t fault all the effort, it has been terrific. I think that’s what Origin is all about – key moments,” Inglis said.

“little things cost us in the second half.

“All I want them to do now is go back and represent their club footy really well, forget about this one.”

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