Maroons!!!

For the Queensland Maroons to beat the New South Wales Blues in the Australian Rugby League State of Origin Series for eight years in a row is nothing short of phenomenal. It is a sporting dynasty unparalleled in other codes. It is not as if NSW didn't throw everything at their northern cousins, including the kitchen sink and a number of howitzers, but still the mighty Cane Toads prevailed. Unbelievable, even after a two point victory in the final match of the series.

Little Sam Perrett Delivers for the Roosters

The Sydney Roosters stormed into next weekend's National Rugby League grand final with a bruising 32-6 victory over Gold Coast Titans at Suncorp Stadium. The NRL, Australia's equivalent of the NFL, will celebrate it's version of the Superbowl next weekend. The Roosters now have a chance to become the first team since Western Suburbs in 1934 to go from last place to premiers the very next season. Veteran coach Brian Smith's may now be able to end that embarrassing losing record in championship matches.

The Roosters led the Titans 12-6 in front of a big 44,787 crowd after a tense opening 40 minutes courtesy of two tries to right winger Sam Perrett. Young Sam was one of my next door neighbour's kid in New Zealand and although a small at the time he was a really nice boy. Sam obviously learned quickly to play to his strengths by showing his older and much larger brother, Lionel, a clean pair of heels when playing backyard football. The kid is a speed merchant and thankfully is no longer little.

Gold Coast discard Daniel Conn, released by the Titans last season, turned on his former club with a crucial try in the 49th minute which had more than an element of luck to give the visitors an 18-6 break. However, Braith Anasta booked the Roosters' grand final ticket, crashing over for his eighth try of the season in the 62nd minute to provide the Roosters with an unassailable lead at 24-6. Well done Sam, and the Roosters, good luck for next week in the Grand Final.