New South Wales Claim Last Minute Victory In State Of Origin Dead Rubber

New South Wales overturned history and prevented Queensland from securing a series clean sweep with an 18-14 game three State of Origin win in Sydney last night.

Despite the record-breaking Maroons having already secured their 10th series win in 11 years, Laurie Daley's reshuffled Blues provided a portent of better times ahead by preventing the visitors from claiming a fifth series white wash and providing retiring captain Paul Gallen with a fitting farewell in front of 61,267 fans at ANZ Stadium.

Typically the match wasn't without controversy, with NSW slammed for 'disrespectful' act towards Maroons captain Cameron Smith.

Several NSW players turned their back on the Queensland captain as he was addressing the crowd during the official post-match Origin Shield-presentation ceremony at ANZ Stadium.

Players, including Blues captain Paul Gallen, had already walked away from the centre of the field towards the fans and family members sitting in the front row when Smith was in the middle of his speech congratulating the Blues for their victory in the series finale.

Smith and Maroons coach Kevin Walters admitted the snub was not something they would be proud of.

It all helps build the hate for next year.

NZ Herald