Danny Weidler on Footy Talk Journos Show explained the reasoning behind NSW Blues taking the suspended Jospeh Sua’ali’i into their camp ahead of State of Origin Two.
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The rugby union bound star was sent off seven minutes into his Origin debut after a nasty shot on Maroons fullback Reece Walsh.
Suspension has seen the Roosters outside back miss every game post that incident and has also ruled him out of the second game in the series.
Yet, Weidler explained, that head coach Michael Maguire may want a point to prove with the young star.
“I don’t think it was just for Joseph’s sake,” said Weidler.
“I think it was to show Queensland that, you know, this is the attitude that New South Wales have towards that tackle, that they want to get around Joseph and they support everything.
“Obviously they’re supporting him, they obviously don’t support the tackle.”
Weidler further explained that it may be some mind games up NSW’s sleeve after losing Game One, as they aim to level the series.
“They’re just saying, he’s our guy, we stand with him.
“I think that sort of thing will be noted by Queensland.
“I think it was a bit of an up yours to Queensland.
“Who knows what’s going to happen for Game Three but Joseph would be eligible for that game.”
From on the pitch to off it, The Journos – Michael Chammas and Danny Weidler – provide an in-depth look at the big stories, we’re talking player signings, player movement and player feuds, plus all the whispers and murmurs floating around the NRL. Adam Peacock does his best to keep Michael and Danny in check.
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