Matthew Johns is predicting a huge NSW Blues win in the opening State of Origin game at Suncorp Stadium tonight.
Speaking on SEN Radio, the former Blues pivot also compared NSW’s centre pairing to one of the greatest Origin pairings of the 1980s.
“This is what I love about this NSW side,” Johns said.
“Firstly, and I know that Rugby League isn’t played on paper, but you have a look at that team as far as physical presence. Best symbolised by the centres in Stephen Crichton and Latrell Mitchell.
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“I mean that is Mal Meninga and Gene Miles back in the 80s.
“The thing about it is, Nathan Cleary, if NSW can consistently put Nathan in positions for attacking kicks, NSW wins.
“…his array of skills, the standard of his kicks, putting them on the spot, the ability to build pressure through his attacking kicks.
“If he’s there regularly, then NSW wins.”
Meninga and Miles played a combined 55 matches for the Maroons.
