Nicho Hynes: Under the Spotlight in NSW Blues’ Game One Defeat

Before selecting his team for game one, NSW coach Michael Maguire sought players who would run towards the fire, not away from it. Nicho Hynes seemed to embody this ethos statistically, running the ball on 29 occasions—more than any of the other 34 players on the field at Accor Stadium. However, despite his efforts, Hynes’ performance fell short of the mark, contributing to NSW’s disappointing start to the series.

Hynes’ Performance: Effort vs. Execution

Hynes’ determination was evident. He distributed the ball more than any other half and kicked for more meters than his counterparts. Yet, his impact on the game was insufficient. Speaking to the Herald’s Adam Pengilly before the match, Hynes recounted a conversation with Nathan Cleary: “He said, ‘Winning games is the best stat you can have.’” Despite Hynes’ impressive statistics, they didn’t translate into a win for NSW.

Nicho Hynes was disappointing on Wednesday night. (Image: Getty)

The Blues’ attack lacked direction, and Hynes’ contributions often led to the very dysfunction he was supposed to prevent. His standout moment—a well-placed cross-field kick that Zac Lomax skillfully turned into a try—was an exception in an otherwise disjointed performance.

Missed Opportunities and Questionable Decisions

When NSW was reduced to 12 men early in the game, the team needed Hynes to step up. However, he appeared tentative. A pivotal moment came just after half-time, with the Blues at 20-6 following an Angus Crichton strip. Instead of capitalizing, Hynes pointed at the goalposts, failing to take control. Later, covering for a fatigued Reece Robson, Hynes delivered a last-tackle play that resulted in a poor kick, handing momentum back to Queensland.

Coach Maguire’s post-match comments—or lack thereof—spoke volumes. While he praised Angus Crichton and Payne Haas, he offered no such commendation for Hynes. Maguire’s strategic decisions also drew criticism. His reluctance to use Hudson Young, touted for his versatility, left the Blues vulnerable during a crucial period.

Blues coach Michael Maguire. (Image: Kate Geraghty)

Looking Ahead: Changes for Game Two

The loss raises significant questions about team selection for game two. Maguire’s emphasis on defense over attack, and grit over glamour, left NSW without a game-breaker. Latrell Mitchell’s cryptic Instagram post watching the game suggested a player eager to contribute.

Potential changes include recalling Wests Tigers captain Api Koroisau for his creativity and assessing Cameron Murray’s fitness. The No.7 jersey, likely to bear Mitchell Moses’ name, needs a player who can dominate. Moses demonstrated his capability with Parramatta, returning from injury to show he’s NSW’s best available halfback option.

Potential NSW Team for Game Two

• Fullback: James Tedesco
• Wingers: Zac Lomax, Brian To’o
• Centers: Latrell Mitchell, Stephen Crichton
• Halves: Jarome Luai, Mitchell Moses
• Forwards: Jake Trbojevic, Reece Robson, Payne Haas, Liam Martin, Angus Crichton, Isaah Yeo
• Bench: Spencer Leniu, Matt Burton, Api Koroisau, Cameron McInnes/Cameron Murray (if fit)

Maguire’s focus on versatility and defensive strength must evolve to include attacking prowess and strategic creativity. For NSW to turn the series around, the team needs players who not only run towards the fire but also know how to control and harness it to their advantage.

Source: https://www.smh.com.au/sport/nrl/hynes-had-his-chance-the-four-changes-nsw-must-make-for-state-of-origin-ii-20240606-p5jjo2.html

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