Jubilant James Tedesco hailed NSW’s “picture-perfect” performance after making a triumphant debut as the Blues’ State of Origin captain.
Tedesco led the Blues beautifully from the back, setting the tone with a signature first-half solo try in Wednesday night’s rousing 34-10 win over Queensland in Sydney.
“Felt good. Obviously I had the captaincy role, so wanted to take more leadership, more ownership with our team,” he said.
“The way we started that game was picture perfect, what we spoke about all week. Just that line speed and pressure in defence.
“Yeah, everything went to plan tonight. Really pleased, but I know we have a lot more to improve on. We know they’re going to come back bigger and stronger in game three. Can’t wait.”
The six-try rout was a far cry from last week’s 18-14 collapse from a 10-0 lead at the break in Adelaide.
“Yeah, we were a bit complacent, obviously really disappointed in that first game and we wanted to show more heart, more pride in the jersey,” Tedesco said.
“I think we really showed that tonight.”
Replacing injured Sydney Roosters teammate Boyd Cordner and following in the footsteps of some of rugby league’s greatest modern-day players, the superstar fullback became NSW’s 20th Origin skipper since the fierce interstate rivalry began 40 years ago.
“I just wanted to be myself,” Tedesco said.
“I think more increased in talk and energy at training and, yeah, just wanted to be myself and speak from the heart.
“Obviously I learnt a lot from Boyd, just an inspirational leader and tried to do my role for the team.”