When you want a really good job done, just call Jake Trbojevic.
The NSW Blues knew they needed to do that, and more, in Perth.
A shock omission from the opening round State of Origin match, won by Queensland, Trbojevic was recalled to the Blues team by Coach Brad Fittler for Game Two last night at Optus Stadium, Perth.
And just like he does for Manly Warringah Sea Eagles, Trbojevic delivered another sterling performance, doing all the hard yards and stiffening up the NSW defence.
Like a hard-working tradesman, Trbojevic was heavily involved from the opening tackle despite playing prop instead of his regular lock position.
By half-time, with the Blues leading 14-12, Trbojevic made six runs for 49 metres, 20 post contact metres and 16 tackled in just 31 minutes of the opening 40.
The Blues then dominated the second half to run in seven tries to two for a comprehensive 44-12 victory to level the series one-all.
At full-time, Trbojevic’s stats read 16 runs for 143 metres, made 61 post contact metres and 31 tackles in a superb 71-minute performance.
Humble as always, Trbojevic said it “was nice to be out there”.
“It was an impressive team performance, which was really good,’’ Trbojevic told Channel Nine post match.
“We came home strong. There was lot of possession that went our way, so we can’t get too far ahead of ourselves.
“We did earn it. We played really well and we defended well.”
The Blues now head to Brisbane’s Suncorp Stadium on July 13 for the decider as they chase another series victory.
Trbojevic will be there…just as he is every week for his beloved Sea Eagles.
