State of Origin 2012 game 3 highlights

In what can only be described as one of the most highly anticipated series deciders in recent memory, the Blues were out to spoil the Suncorp party and showcase their gritty defensive determination which saw them snatch game two.

But like years gone by, it was Queensland who rose to the occasion.

Trailing 8-0 after 14 minutes, there was a sense of inevitability when the Maroons rallied to enter the sheds at halt time 16-8.

As always it was Queensland who dug deepest, drawing on energy from the electric atmosphere to rise to the ultimate occasion.

An early Brett Morris try was cancelled out by a sharp finish in the corner by Darius Boyd, followed by a try a piece to Thurston and Hodges to wrap up the half with two tries in the final 8 minutes.

The Blues came out hard in the second half, however the game was largely played inside their own half as Queensland pressed hard for a try to well and truly kill the game off.

But like most Origins, it was a script you just couldn’t write as Brett Morris’ twin brother Josh took a high ball over the shoulder of Boyd to score an incredible try in the corner, hauling NSW back into the contest.

With the score sitting precariously at 20-18 in Queensland's favour it was Todd Carney who had to steel his nerves in front of 50,000 passionate Queenslanders.

Carney made the ensuing side-line kick look easy under immense pressure to level the scores and setup a tense final 9 minutes.

With the game balanced on a precipice, it was Cooker Cronk who stepped up to pierce the heart of the Blues - and more importantly the sticks - with a long-range drop goal to edge the Maroons 1 point closer to glory.

At 21-20, Queenslanders across the state held their breath as their team hung on for the final few minutes to secure a record setting 7 origin series wins in a row by the slightest of margins.

The incredible record proved a fitting send off for Petero Civinoceva, who capped off his final Origin performance with a sensational victory.

Once more the Blues are forced to look to the future after another disappointing 'what culd have been' moment, while Queensland will dream of 10.

What a great day to be a Queenslander.

Bring on 8 in a row!

Photo: Getty Images / Getty Images Sport / Bradley Kanaris