Surprised Morgan keen to go
PAYBACK is what NSW prop and hardman Aaron Woods is expecting from the Queensland’s forwards after they were outplayed by the Blues big men in Game II. Woods’ go- ahead try and David Klemmer’s breakout performance were the lasting images of NSW levelling the State of Origin series with a 26- 18 victory in Melbourne. Woods believes his 21- year- old teammate, after his verbal stoush with Maroons veteran Corey Parker late in Game II, will no doubt be met with a warm reception at a volatile Suncorp Stadium. THE constant niggle in rugby league has become such a blight on the game, maybe it is time to bring back the biff. That was one suggestion floated by Panthers’ enforcer Jeremy Latimore, who was on the end of a headbutt from Wests Tigers halfback Luke Brooks on Sunday. Brooks was charged with contrary conduct yesterday, but won’t miss a game with an early plea. His headbutt was yet another example of a player venting frustration without throwing an illegal punch. MICHAEL Morgan has admitted he feels bad for Daly Cherry- Evans and is shocked he was picked ahead of the Manly star.
The axing of Cherry- Evans is Queensland’s biggest selection call in several years as they omit the player Cameron Smith believes is the next Maroons captain.
Morgan told the Townsville Bulletin he expected to be dumped for next Wednesday's Game Three decider but is determined to make the most of the unexpected opportunity.
Coach Mal Meninga said Cherry- Evans wasn’t picked because Morgan provided a greater utility value as he could cover all positions through the halves and backline.
It is understood Morgan’s combination with Thurston also edged him into the team as halfback Cooper Cronk will not be 100 per cent fit for the decider at Suncorp Stadium and his knee could break down again.
“Part of me feels bad for Daly. He is a friend and I think he’s awesome player,” Morgan said. “I thought he would get picked.
“He
has
been
there
and SUNCORP STADIUM, JULY 8, 8PM
SERIES TIED 1- 1 done it before. He was in last year’s Game Three and he was awesome.
“Obviously there were some other reasons why I was picked and maybe it was because I play with JT week in and week out and I can cover some other positions.
“I will see during the week what my role will be.
“I wasn’t sitting by the phone waiting, you know, but I am extremely happy to be here – don’t get me wrong.
“I want to make the most of this opportunity.”
This will be Morgan’s third straight game for Queensland, just one year after he cemented his first grade place for the Cowboys.
Meninga said the absence of Billy Slater meant they needed a player on the bench who could cover fullback.
Cherry- Evans was gutted when Meninga told him of his omission.
Rather than arriving in Queensland’s Southbank hotel yesterday, Cherry- Evans was at Manly's corporate golf day.
“It was a tough decision. The selectors mused over the last 10 days and we decided Michael was the best option,” Meninga said.
“We are down an outside back. Michael can fill in there.
“It was a tough decision and not one we wanted to make.
“He was very disappointed and that’s understandable. We just thought Michael Morgan was the best option.
“Cooper is fine to go. He is fit, healthy and raring to go.”
Outside of Cronk, the Maroons also have injury concerns with prop Matt Scott battling neck soreness resulting from a crusher tackle in North Queensland’s loss to Cronulla.
Scott will not join Queensland’s camp until Thursday.
Winger Darius Boyd will not train until Thursday as he nurses a groin strain suffered in Brisbane’s win over Newcastle. Scott is the larger concern. He was clearly hampered by a back and knee injury in Game Two.
Meninga said he was confident all players would take their place in the team.