2024 State of Origin: Maroons draw first blood with record-equaling hat-trick from Tabuai-Fidow

Maroons edge out Blues in Origin opener

Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow scores hat-trick as 12-men Maroons draw first blood in 2024 State of Origin series

The Queensland Maroons have drawn first blood in the 2024 State of Origin series with a thrilling 22-12 victory over the New South Wales Blues in Game 1 at Accor Stadium.

In a match that will be remembered for its drama and intensity, the Maroons capitalized on a numerical advantage to secure a hard-fought win. The Blues were reduced to 12 men for almost 20 minutes of the second half after forward Liam Martin was sent off for a high tackle on Maroons halfback Tom Dearden.

The Maroons made the most of their extra man advantage, with winger Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow scoring a record-equaling hat-trick to help seal the victory. The 21-year-old became just the fourth player in Origin history to score three tries in a single game.