State of Origin is back ahead of the NRL’s Magic Round, with the Thursday night match starting the festival of rugby league in Brisbane. The Blues take a 1-nil series lead into this contest and with the chance to seal the series at the Maroons home ground, motivation will be higher than ever. It sets the stage for another terrific contest between these two sides and with all eyes on this fixture, an exciting match is undoubtedly ahead. Before You Bet is here with a detailed look at the game ahead with the aim of finding you a winner or two to add to your enjoyment.
Check out our full preview and tips for Game 2 of the State of Origin below and if you’re keen to play along with our tips, consider joining UpYaGo!
2026 NRLW State of Origin Game 2 Predictions & Tips
Asserting their dominance
The Blues had things go their way in Game 1 but were limited to just 11 points. That is a testament to the defence of the Queenslanders but also the shortcomings of the Blues attack; they had a total of 9 errors. Thankfully, a greater share of possession (53%) and a superior completion rate (82%) allowed them to build pressure on the Maroons. This allowed them to average 9.3m per carry and make 585 PCM’s. Their defence was good too, missing just 25 tackles and allowing only 2 line breaks.
Spirited but more is needed
You cannot fault the passion of the Maroons in the opening match. Despite having a host of new combinations, they took their chances early in the first half. They relied on gritty defence to keep them in the contest but as good as they were in some areas, they were poor in others. They had 11 total errors, missed 34 tackles, and completed at just 70%. This was never going to be enough to overcome the power and experience of the Blues. When it mattered, they couldn’t build pressure. There is a sense too that if their opponents will be better heading into the next match and the Maroons must improve their execution if they’re to be competitive.
Stats that matter
- The Maroons never defeated the Blues at this venue. They were hammered 32-12 in their last game at this venue.
- The Blues won the first two games last year 58-18, recording two 13+ victories in Game 1 and 2.
- The Maroons have been outscored 16 tries to 7 in their past 4 games.
The series to be decided in contest
The Blues won Game 1 in a manner which was far from convincing. Being the first game, these players have participated in for some time, it will take a game to rediscover their form and timing. While the Maroons are expected to improve, the ceiling is far higher for the Blues. They placed themselves in strong attacking positions in Game 1 but struggled to find the finishing touches. With both teams facing changes ahead of this fixture, the Blues appear to get through the adjustments better than their opponents. The halves combination offers greater stability, and they should only grow in confidence; the work of Nizza at hooker is also undervalued. She can free up the middle for Southwell to create her own space for the outside backs. Again, they will need to establish a strong platform early in this contest. Their defensive structure should offer them the necessary confidence to do this and once they’ve gathered momentum, they should win by a margin which (this time) covers the line.
Blues -9.5
$1.90 (1.5 units)
QLD vs NSW Same Game Multi
Leg 1 = Total points over 37.5 – despite last game being a low scoring affair, another match will offer greater stability for these players to find their best and finish off attacking movements with poise.
Leg 2 = Sergis to score – she continued her dominance at this level by sealing victory in Game 1 with a try. Always dangerous, Sergis will again make her opponents miss at key moments and offers great value on the edge.
Leg 3 = Chapman to score – it was a quieter than expected showing in Game 1 from Chapman. You cannot keep her out of the game for long though; expect the Blues to be more direct in shifting the ball to her edge and making her competitive in the air with kicks.
SGM Odds = $6.12 at Bet365
New South Wales vs Queensland Betting Odds & Match Info
Date: Thursday 14th May
Location: Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane
Time: 7:45pm (AEST)
Odds: Queensland $3.50 vs New South Wales $1.30
Line: +9.5
Points: 37.5
