New NSW star Mark Nawaqanitawase has described his State of Origin debut as being up there with his feats in other codes.
The 25-year-old winger's performance was a shining light for the Blues on a dark night for NSW at the MCG.
Nawaqanitawase finished with two tries and was arguably headed for player-of-the-match honours at halftime when the Blues led 12-8.
But NSW were helpless in the second-half as Queensland ran rampant to win 44-24 and send the series to a decider at Suncorp Stadium on July 8.
"A bit generous, I could have done a bit more, especially in that second half," Nawaqanitawase said.
"Obviously a quality Queensland side to come out there in the second half, and they turned it on."
Nawaqanitawase has played for the Sydney Roosters since late 2024, but previously represented Australia in rugby union and rugby sevens.
He has played in big Tests for the Wallabies, as well as playing at the Paris Olympics.
Nawaqanitawase said playing in front of a record State of Origin crowd was "up there" in comparison to everything else he has acheived in sport.
"Olympics is pretty cool," he said.
"We had 90-odd thousand as well in the Stade de France.
"But just feeling the intensity in the crowd booing and cheering when things happen, it's pretty cool to be involved in.
"It was definitely everything and more."
Nawaqanitawase's Roosters teammate Sam Walker stole the show, putting in a flawless kicking performance for Queensland.
"That's two games now he's done quality for the Maroons," Nawaqanitawase said of Walker. "Just hope he brings it back to the Roosters.
"He's an amazing player.
"When Cam (Munster) went off in that first half, he held the boys together so well."
