New South Wales Blues legend Michael O’Connor says there is more pain in store for the Queenslanders after their 22-12 loss at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

Speaking to Macquarie Sports Radio, the Dual International believes the Blues had plenty of improvement left in them.

“I just think that NSW now are in a position where they can get so much better compared to QLD. Given that that was NSW’s first outing, it’s very encouraging.”

O’Connor also praised NSW’s 11 rookies.

“I thought our defence and sense of understanding of each others’ game was really effective. All of the debutants looked like they belong there.”

The81stMinute Commentary Team is back this Saturday for Wests Magpies v Blacktown – live on steelesports.com.au – kick-off 12.45pm