There have been plenty of bolters in State of Origin’s 45-year history, but newly blooded Queensland centre Robert Toia’s story is one of a kind.
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Toia made his debut in the opener and was a glimmer of hope for Queensland despite what coach Billy Slater described as a “flat” performance from the home side in their 18-6 loss.
Back in 2021, Toia told a Queensland Rugby League reporter, “I’d love to play Origin for Queensland.” Now that dream has become a reality.
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Toia was a surprise selection after only playing 10 NRL games with the Roosters. In the lead up to the opener both Slater and Toia faced a lot of questions about his position in the squad since he was among five of the least experienced players to ever take part in the interstate night of nights.
“I like to back myself,” said Toia
At just 20 years old he was up against Origin specialist Latrell Mitchell but the Roosters rookie didn’t look out of place as the time spent in camp with Slater helped instil him with confidence.
“I think he’s world-class, top-line centre,” Slater said.
“Although he’s only 10 games into his NRL career, he’s been through a bit of adversity, I’ve been watching him closely not just the stuff he’s been doing with the football but he’s got good principles in his game.”
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“You know his reassurance and belief throughout and from the beginning and come to the end,” Toia said.
“With constant reminders of him picking me and then believing in me and it really played a part in us trying to be the best we can be.”
Despite the loss, Toia is looking to the future and preparing for Game 2 of the series and trusts his team will be able to give their all to secure a win in Game 2.
“Hopefully I did enough out there for Billy to reconsider me but if not, I know the boys will be able to get the job done,” he said.
Throughout the game Toai had a few nice carries but really found his groove in the second half with some powerful runs, while he flicked a pass to Coates who was off to the corner to score Queensland’s only try of the game.
The Maroons outside backs were also supposed to be a rare advantage for Queensland in the lead-up, although that wasn’t reflected in the scoreline.
With a host of injured Maroons set to return, Toia might need to play the waiting game before stepping on the field for Game 2.
