James Roberts and Bowraville’s Greg Inglis, who were both born in Kempsey, went toe-to-toe in last night’s exhilarating State of Origin opener.
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The two opposed each other on the field but had limited opportunities with the ball in hand, as the slippery surface contributed to a battle in the middle.
Inglis did get the better of his younger cousin when he got on the outside of Roberts early in the contest but the Brisbane Broncos flyer quickly made a covering tackle.
Inglis, who was captaining Queensland for the first time, had more of an impact on the game but Roberts had the last laugh as NSW claimed game one 22-12.
However, Inglis led by example in his 31st Origin appearance and kept busy in an inspirational performance.
The 31-year-old wound back the clock as he came up with big hits in defence and carried the ball strongly while showcasing his famous big fend.
Meanwhile Roberts was solid without providing any of the flashiness in attack for which he’s become known.
The 25-year-old didn’t get a chance to utilise his speed but he did his job in defence and contained Inglis, who has crossed for 18 tries for Queensland.
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Roberts and NSW have an opportunity to clinch the series in Sydney on Sunday June 24 while Inglis will be out to send it to a decider in Brisbane on July 11.
