Origin is almost here! We're celebrating this special time of the year by counting down our favourite NSW Origin memories. With just two days to go, we reveal our second-ranked all-time favourite Blues moment – the moment Turvey and co. fulfilled a dream.
“How sweet it is, Steve Mortimer’s face tells it all.”
The year was 1985, when the NSW Blues finally won a State of Origin series, ending the five-year dominance of Queensland.
Ahead by a single point with only eight minutes remaining in Game II, Mortimer denied a Wally Lewis field-goal attempt with a charge down, which inspired the Blues to fight until the end – and claim the win.
As a result of Mortimer’s heroics, Brett Kenny scored a try on the stroke of fulltime to gave the Blues their first ever Origin series victory.
Mortimer expressed his relief and joy by dropping to his knees after the Kenny try, and his teammates showed their appreciation of their passionate captain by chairing him off the field on their shoulders.
The photo captures the raw emotion shown by the Blues – and indeed all of NSW – after finally securing an Origin victory, particularly by captain and halfback Mortimer who had been a part of three series losses and desperately wanted to win.
What’s your favourite NSW VB Blues Magic Moment? Let us know via Facebook (NSW Blues) and Twitter (@NSWRL) using the #uptheblues hashtag.
Will you be in a position to witness more iconic moments this Origin series? Answer the call and get behind your NSW VB Blues when they take on Queensland in this year’s Holden State of Origin. The only Origin match in Sydney this year is played on May 27. There’s no better way to support the Blues than being a part of the Blatchys Blues crowd - join the Official NSW VB Blues supporter bays for Origin I here.
