NSW produced a masterclass in the State of Origin decider, with Nathan Cleary breaking the game open by scoring the first two tries and kicking five goals, while also delivering two try assists as NSW seized control through pressure-building set plays.

Cleary capped a historic performance with a spectacular right-foot step and a crucial long-range penalty late in the game, earning man of the match and the Wally Lewis Medal as player of the series.

The Blues snapped Queensland’s grip on the series after a challenging start, riding Cleary’s influence and a composed team display to clinch a dominant 30-12 victory at Suncorp and claim the Origin shield.

There was public scrutiny of NSWRL chief executive Dave Trodden over Daley’s return, though he shared in the jubilation of the win.

The win is hailed as one of the all-time great Origin boilovers, marking a dramatic NSW reversal after earlier losses and silencing critics around the league.

Daley’s emotions were raw after the final whistle, signaling the culmination of a tense campaign and a historic night for NSW.

Key contributions from Moses, Haas, Martin, Crichton, Bostock and a potential final Origin for Tedesco underpinned the Blues’ measured, effective performance.

Questions about coaching versus selection were asked, but the night ultimately belonged to NSW’s triumph and Cleary’s standout form, a defining moment in the series.

Queensland’s hopes were dashed by a combination of errors, ill-discipline and injuries, allowing NSW to stretch to a third straight home victory and seal the series.

NSW’s 30-12 win at Suncorp not only clinched the shield but also represented a historic high point for Daley and a personal milestone for Cleary.

The piece frames the match as an opinion-driven reaction to NSW’s emphatic victory that overturned expectations and showcased Cleary’s defining Origin performance.

Cleary’s late leadership, including a decisive long-range kick and strategic play, helped overturn an early deficit and cement NSW’s series win.