2002 QUEENSLAND v NEW SOUTH WALES STATE OF ORIGIN RL
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The 2002 State of Origin series, marking the 21st annual rugby league showdown between Queensland and New South Wales, concluded in a 1-1 draw, with Queensland retaining the shield due to their previous series victory.
Game 1: May 22, 2002 – Stadium Australia, Sydney
New South Wales dominated the opening match with a 32-4 victory over Queensland. Tries were scored by Matthew Gidley, Brett Hodgson, Andrew Johns, Jamie Lyon, and Timana Tahu. Andrew Johns contributed significantly with four successful conversions and a field goal, while Trent Barrett added another field goal. Queensland's sole try came from Lote Tuqiri.
Game 2: June 5, 2002 – QEII Stadium, Brisbane
Queensland rebounded in the second game, securing a 26-18 win. Lote Tuqiri was instrumental, scoring three tries and adding three goals, totaling 18 points. Additional tries were scored by Dane Carlaw and Gorden Tallis. New South Wales responded with tries from Braith Anasta, Luke Ricketson, and Shaun Timmins, with Andrew Johns converting three goals.
Game 3: June 26, 2002 – Stadium Australia, Sydney
The series decider ended in an 18-18 draw. New South Wales' points came from two tries by Jason Moodie and one by Steve Menzies, all converted by Andrew Johns. Queensland's tries were scored by Shaun Berrigan, Dane Carlaw, Lote Tuqiri, and Shane Webcke, with Tuqiri adding one conversion. This draw resulted in the series being tied, allowing Queensland to retain the shield as the previous year's winners.
Key Players and Statistics
Lote Tuqiri (Queensland): Tuqiri was the standout player of the series, finishing as both the top try-scorer with five tries and the top point-scorer with 28 points.
Andrew Johns (New South Wales): Johns played a pivotal role for New South Wales, contributing significantly with his goal-kicking and playmaking abilities throughout the series.
Series Outcome
The 2002 series was notable for being the second drawn series in State of Origin history, following the 1999 series. The outcome led to discussions and eventual changes, including the introduction of extra-time in future State of Origin matches to ensure a definitive result.
This series is remembered for its competitive nature and the performances of key players like Lote Tuqiri and Andrew Johns, which left a lasting impact on the State of Origin legacy.
