The Blues, inspired by backrowers Greg Bird and Luke Lewis, repelled Queensland’s late comeback to win the first game of the three-match series 14-6 before over 80,000 fans at Sydney’s Olympic Stadium.
New South Wales, whose last Origin series win was back in 2005, were outstanding in the first half and dominated Queensland to lead 14-0 at halftime.
It is the first time New South Wales have won the first game of the Origin series since 2008.
Tries by fullback Jarryd Hayne and centre Michael Jennings gave New South Wales the platform for victory, with debutant standoff James Maloney kicking three goals from four attempts.
But Queensland came back hard in the second half with winger Darius Boyd scoring his 10th Origin try in the 61st minute off leadup work from Greg Inglis.
The Blues’ defence held the Maroons at bay to take the early initiative in the series.
New South Wales skipper Paul Gallen appeared fortunate not to spend time in the sin bin or even dismissal after punching opposing forward Nate Myles. He was placed on the referee’s report.
It was a rousing start for new Blues coach Laurie Daley, who took over the role from Ricky Stuart this year.
Queensland’s playmaker Johnathan Thurston struggled to make an impact in the match as he battled a groin injury.
Queensland must win the second game in Brisbane on June 26 to stay alive in the series.
The final match is in Sydney on July 17.
In the last seven seasons Queensland have won 15 encounters against NSW’s six victories, but the Blues believe they are now closing the gap
Last year’s series was only decided by a long-range drop goal from Test scrum-half Cooper Cronk with five minutes left in the deciding game, handing Queensland a 21-20 victory in Brisbane.
TEAMS
New South Wales (1-17):
Jarryd Hayne; Brett Morris, Michael Jennings,
Josh Morris, Blake Ferguson; James Maloney, Mitchell Pearce; Paul Gallen (capt), Robbie Farah, James Tamou; Ryan Hoffman, Luke Lewis; Greg Bird.
Interchange: Andrew Fifita, Josh Reynolds, Trent Merrin, Anthony Watmough
Queensland (1-17):
Billy Slater; Darius Boyd, Greg Inglis, Justin Hodges, Brent Tate; Johnathan Thurston, Cooper Cronk; Matt Scott, Cameron Smith (capt), David Shillington, Nate Myles, Sam Thaiday, Ashley Harrison.
Interchange: Corey Parker, Matt Gillett, Ben Te’o, Chris McQueen
Referees:
Shayne Hayne,
Ashley Klein