State of Origin 2024: Bookies favouring NSW to square the series

Bookmakers are predicting a much closer affair in game two of State of Origin 2024 this Wednesday evening in Melbourne.

Three weeks ago, Queensland piled 38 points on New South Wales to grab a 1-0 lead in the series.

However, a few tweaks to their lineup plus a return to the MCG have led NRL bookies to set New South Wales as favourites in game two.

The challengers are paying $1.75 at Bet365 to level the series. Queensland aren’t far off the pace but still trail at $2.10 heading into Wednesday’s clash.

Why bookmakers have New South Wales ahead

Given they lost by a margin of 28 points earlier this month, why do rugby league bookmakers have New South Wales as favourites in Melbourne?

The elephant in the room is that last match, the Blues were forced to play 70 minutes with a man in the bin.

Chances are, this won’t happen again in game two. In fact, the side’s ability to be competitive until the final 10 minutes with only 12 men likely works in their favour for this week’s betting odds.

On top of this, several changes to Michael Maguire’s lineup bode well for an improved performance.

STATE OF ORIGIN TEAMS: BLUES MAKE FIVE CHANGES FOR GAME II

Latrell Mitchell comes in for Joseph Sua’ali’i, with the Rabbitohs fullback in brilliant form this month. Mitchell Moses also rejoins the side, bringing with him a strong kicking game.

Add in the fact that New South Wales have won four of the five Origin matches played at the MCG, and it’s no surprise bookies have them ahead.

Tensions high between coaches ahead of game two

There’s plenty on the line this Wednesday evening, with a refreshing amount of hostility going down between Maguire and Queensland coach Billy Slater.

It began with Maguire throwing a barb Slater’s way, in reference to the former player’s poor judicial record.

“I think you’ve got to make sure you don’t live in glasshouses,” Maguire said, referring to the Sua’ali’i send off in game one.

“It was one of those unfortunate things that happens in games but when you go after a player it’s not acceptable in this space.

“Glasshouses, it’s an interesting one that one.”

When asked if he was referring to Slater, Maguire simply responded, “I’ll let you work that one out.”

Relations soured even further when Slater showed up late for a press conference this week, prompting Maguire to quip, “Well, I always like to turn up on time.”

Slater has remained reserved in response but will no doubt be looking to put Maguire in his place with a series victory on Wednesday.

STATE OF ORIGIN GAME II PREVIEW & TIPS