Queensland legend Johnathan Thurston has pinned the Maroons' comeback victory in the State of Origin opener on the efforts of skipper Daly Cherry-Evans.
The Blues were left stunned by one of the better Origin comebacks of the modern-era as Queensland turned a 10-point half-time deficit into an 18-14 victory by the final whistle.
That was largely thanks to a calculated kicking game from Cherry-Evans and halves partner Cameron Munster.
But it was also the skipper's willingness to run the ball that led by example.
"It was a bit of an erratic start from the Maroons. They got the ball really early but couldn't compile pressure. Then they got frustrated with not being able to score points," Thurston told Wide World of Sports' JT's Roast and Toast.
"But whatever was said at half time certainly turned it around. At the forefront of that was the captain DCE with his kicking game, along with Cam Munster. They certainly controlled the game in that regard.
"DCE's running game was outstanding as well. He provided a lot of opportunities on the right hand side, especially toward Dane Gagai. So, it was a great captain's knock from DCE and certainly something for the team to build on."
Having rediscovered his place among his statesman after becoming somewhat of a pariah in past years due to a reneged deal with the Titans, Cherry-Evans' Maroons resurrection will continue to go a way to restore his image in the eyes of Queenslanders.
"It's probably been a bit of a redemption story for him, given the fact his backflip on the Titans wasn't well received from people north of the border," Thurston said.
"But the way he's come out and captained last year and the start of this series, I think that if he can win the Origin series this year, it will look very good on his resume and for what he's been able to do as well for the side."
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