As NSW coach Brad Fittler aims to etch his name into the State of Origin record books on Wednesday night, skipper Boyd Cordner has praised him for putting every Blues player on notice in 2019.
Fittler has a chance to become the second-most successful coach in Blues history if he can mastermind a successive Origin series victory in the game-three decider at ANZ Stadium.
In the 39 years of Origin, only one NSW coach – Phil Gould – has won multiple series.
The likes of Jack Gibson, Tim Sheens, Craig Bellamy, Tommy Raudonikis, Ricky Stuart and Wayne Pearce have tried but fallen short.
If Fittler can win his second title in as many years, he will also strike a blow at the heart of his Queensland opposite Kevin Walters, who is under pressure despite being on contract for 2020.
While Fittler was questioned after dropping Latrell Mitchell, Cody Walker and Josh Morris and selecting unheralded Daniel Saifiti for game two, Cordner said it delivered an important message to the side.
“He’s just living in the moment and really letting us know what it means to be here,” Cordner said.
“If you look at this year, we’re all on notice. If we don’t get the job done, he’ll bring people in here that will get the job done.
“He’s proven that, he’s backed himself. That’s what made him the player he was and the person he is today.
“He’s a winner. We respect that and feed off that.”
While the Blues head into the match as favourites following their thumping 38-6 game-two win, they are wary of a wounded and desperate Queensland.
History shows the Maroons are best with their backs against the wall, boast a superior record in deciders and harbour no fear of playing in enemy territory.
Of the 19 deciders, Queensland have won 13 – including the past seven since 2006 – and NSW have triumphed in four, with the other two ending in draws.
Even when the deciding game is played in NSW the Maroons have a superior record, winning four and losing two.
Fullback James Tedesco said Fittler had his side primed physically and mentally, and credited him with allowing everyone to play their best football.
“He just lets us play free-flowing footy, lets us take our opportunities when we see them,” Tedesco said.
“He doesn’t hold anybody back, I think that’s when everyone plays their best footy.”
