Angus Crichton has vowed to not take a step back in Origin II after being involved in a running battle with Maroons captain Daly Cherry-Evans during the series opener. The NSW camp was angered by suggestions that Reece Walsh had been knocked out in a high tackle by Joseph Sua’ali’i in Origin I after a deliberate campaign to target the star fullback. Blues coach Michael Maguire accused the Maroons of double standards and Channel 9 unearthed video footage of Cherry-Evans head slamming and kneeing Crichton.
Crichton mentioned that he should have reacted during the incident and that he is prepared to take matters into his own hands in Game II. Andrew Johns also commented on the incident and encouraged Crichton to respond. Cherry-Evans refused to respond to the claims and stated that he is focused on playing.
Maguire hit back at the Maroons during a press conference and emphasized that the Blues focus on all of the opposition’s players, not just one individual. Both Maguire and Slater mentioned that their team has had a good preparation for the match and are ready to play. Slater also praised Walsh for his hard work and dedication to the game. Despite the tension between the two teams, both camps are eager to compete and are focused on securing a win in Melbourne.
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