2006 State of Origin series
| 2006 State of Origin series | |
|---|---|
| Won by |
 Queensland (13th title) |
| Series margin | 2-1 |
| Points scored | 99 |
| Attendance | 180,074 (ave. 60,025 per match) |
| Top points scorer(s) |
Johnathan Thurston (14) |
| Top try scorer(s) |
Adam Mogg (3) |
The 2006 State of Origin series was the 25th year that the annual best-of-three series of interstate rugby league football matches between the Queensland and New South Wales representative teams was contested entirely under 'state of origin' selection rules. It was decided in three matches which drew a total attendance of 180,074. Queensland won the series 2-1, their first outright series victory since 2001 and the first in their record-breaking run of eight consecutive series wins. Prior to game one there was growing concern about the long term future of State of Origin, many commentators were beginning to wonder if Queensland would ever win another series after three consecutive New South Wales victories.
Craig Gower was originally picked for the New South Wales side at halfback but pulled out because of injury. Matt Orford was forced to turn down selection as cover for Gower, also because of injury. Both Andrew Johns and Trent Barrett turned down coming out of retirement to play in the fixture so eventually Brett Finch was selected to wear the number 7 for New South Wales.
The Queensland selectors picked a total of seven State of Origin debutants for game I.
Game I was played at Telstra Stadium, Sydney, and won by New South Wales 17-16, following a late field goal by NSW late-choice halfback, Brett Finch.
For Queensland, Origin debutant Adam Mogg replaced the injured Greg Inglis
In game II, Queensland levelled the series at home at Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane, with a commanding 30-6 victory.
...
Wikipedia