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→‎Game I: previous author's copy that the referee's decision was "one of the best in Origin history" is an attestation of opinion. The author acknowledges that the video footage is inconclusive, therefore the support for the decision is necessarily biased.
 
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{{Short description|Australian rugby league series}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=August 2019}}
{{Infobox State of Origin series
{{Infobox State of Origin series
| year = 1987
| year = 1987
| image =
| image =
| count = 4th series
| count = 4th series
| imagesize = 100px
| imagesize = 100px
Line 9: Line 11:
| points = 72
| points = 72
| attendance = 109091
| attendance = 109091
| top points scorer = [[Image:New South Wales colours.svg|16px]][[Michael O'Connor (rugby footballer)|O'Connor]] [[Image:Queensland colours.svg|16px]][[Dale Shearer|Shearer]] (14 points)
| top points scorer = [[Image:New South Wales colours.svg|16px]] [[Michael O'Connor (rugby)|Michael O'Connor]] <br /> [[Image:Queensland colours.svg|16px]] [[Dale Shearer]] (14 points each)
| top try scorer = [[Image:Queensland colours.svg|16px]] [[Dale Shearer]] ( 3 tries)
| top try scorer = [[Image:Queensland colours.svg|16px]] [[Dale Shearer]] (3 tries)
}}
}}
⚫
The '''1987 State of Origin series''' saw the sixth time the [[State of Origin series|annual three-match series]] between the [[New South Wales rugby league team|New South Wales]] and [[Queensland state rugby league team|Queensland]] representative [[rugby league football]] teams was contested entirely under '[[state of origin]]' selection rules. It saw the emergence of new faces who would go on to become Origin legends (Queensland's [[Allan Langer]] and New South Wales' [[Andrew Ettingshausen]]), record crowds for all three matches, and an additional exhibition game played in [[Long Beach, California]] (near [[Los Angeles]]).


⚫
The '''1987 State of Origin series''' saw the sixth time the annual [[State of Origin series|three-match series]] between the [[New South Wales rugby league team|New South Wales]] and [[Queensland state rugby league team|Queensland]] representative [[rugby league|rugby league football]] teams was contested entirely under '[[State of Origin]]' selection rules. It saw the emergence of new faces who would go on to become Origin legends (Queensland's [[Allan Langer]] and New South Wales' [[Andrew Ettingshausen]]), record crowds for all three matches, and an additional exhibition game played in [[Long Beach, California|Long Beach]], [[California]] (near [[Los Angeles]]).
⚫
The 1987 series was also the last in which players for Queensland were selected from teams of the [[Brisbane Rugby League premiership]]. With the introduction of the Brisbane and Gold Coast clubs to the [[New South Wales Rugby League premiership]] the following year, after this series all players in State of Origin would be sourced from NSWRL teams. The final five BRL players selected for Queensland were captain [[Wally Lewis]], [[Gene Miles]], [[Allan Langer]], [[Colin Scott (rugby league)|Colin Scott]] and [[Greg Conescu]], all of whom joined the [[Brisbane Broncos]] in 1988.


⚫
The 1987 series was also the last in which players for Queensland were selected from teams of the [[Brisbane Rugby League premiership]]. With the introduction of the Brisbane and Gold Coast clubs to the [[New South Wales Rugby League premiership]] the following year, after this series all players in State of Origin would be sourced from NSWRL teams. The final seven BRL players selected for Queensland were captain [[Wally Lewis]], [[Gene Miles]], [[Allan Langer]], [[Colin Scott (rugby league)|Colin Scott]], [[Greg Conescu]], [[Greg Dowling]] and [[Bryan Niebling]], all of whom joined the [[Brisbane Broncos]] in 1988.
__TOC__
<br style="clear:both;" />


==Games==
==Games==
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{{Rugbyleaguebox
{{Rugbyleaguebox
|bg = #eeeeee
|bg = #eeeeee
|date = June 2, 1987
|date = Tuesday, June 2, 1987
|report = [http://stats.rleague.com/rl/soo/game18.html (Report)]
|report = [http://stats.rleague.com/rl/soo/game18.html (Report)]
|team1 = [[Image:New South Wales colours.svg|16px]] [[New South Wales rugby league team|New South Wales]]
|team1 = [[Image:New South Wales colours.svg|16px]] [[New South Wales rugby league team|New South Wales]]
|team2 = [[Image:Queensland colours.svg|16px]] [[Queensland State of Origin Team|Queensland]]
|team2 = [[Image:Queensland colours.svg|16px]] [[Queensland State of Origin Team|Queensland]]
|score = 20–16
|score = 20–16
|points1 = ('''12''' - 2 t, 2 g) [[Michael O'Connor (rugby footballer)|Michael O'Connor]] <br> ('''4''' - 1 t) [[Mark McGaw]] <br> ('''4''' - 1 t) [[Les Davidson]]
|points1 = ('''12''' - 2 t, 2 g) [[Michael O'Connor (rugby)|Michael O'Connor]] <br> ('''4''' - 1 t) [[Mark McGaw]] <br> ('''4''' - 1 t) [[Les Davidson]]
|points2 = [[Dale Shearer]]('''4''' - 1 t) <br> [[Tony Currie (rugby league)|Tony Currie]]('''4''' - 1 t)<br> [[Greg Dowling]] ('''4''' - 1 t) <br> [[Gary Belcher]] ('''2''' - 1 g) <br> [[Peter Jackson]] ('''2''' - 1 g)
|points2 = [[Dale Shearer]]('''4''' - 1 t) <br> [[Tony Currie (rugby league)|Tony Currie]]('''4''' - 1 t)<br> [[Greg Dowling]] ('''4''' - 1 t) <br> [[Gary Belcher]] ('''2''' - 1 g) <br> [[Peter Jackson (rugby league)|Peter Jackson]] ('''2''' - 1 g)
|stadium =[[Lang Park]]
|stadium =[[Lang Park]]
|attendance = 33,441
|attendance = 33,441
Line 38: Line 38:
In his first match at Origin level, Langer proved he was a worthy partner for [[Wally Lewis]] in the halves and silenced his doubters with a performance that went close to earning him the man-of-the-match award which was won by Blues' second rower [[Les Davidson]].
In his first match at Origin level, Langer proved he was a worthy partner for [[Wally Lewis]] in the halves and silenced his doubters with a performance that went close to earning him the man-of-the-match award which was won by Blues' second rower [[Les Davidson]].


With only minutes left in the game the scores were locked at 16-all and heading for the first drawn result when referee Mick Stone made one of the best refereeing decisions in Origin history under immense pressure in front of a rabid Queensland crowd. New South Wales' half-back [[Peter Sterling]] missed with a field-goal attempt before launching a final backline raid down the right hand side of the field. [[Cronulla Sharks]] centre [[Andrew Ettingshausen]], on debut and playing on the wing, sent his club team-mate [[Mark McGaw]] away on a long burst down the sideline. Cornered by the converging defence, McGaw threw an inside pass that was knocked down by Queensland but was kicked ahead into the Maroon's in-goal. In a flurry of action that saw arms, legs and bodies flailing in desperation, a hand reached out and grounded the ball just before it skidded dead.
With only minutes left in the game the scores were locked at 16-all and heading for the first drawn result when referee Mick Stone made one of the most controversial refereeing decisions in Origin history, awarding the winning try to Mark McGaw. New South Wales' half-back [[Peter Sterling (rugby league commentator)|Peter Sterling]] missed with a field-goal attempt before launching a final backline raid down the right hand side of the field. [[Cronulla Sharks]] centre [[Andrew Ettingshausen]], on debut and playing on the wing, sent his club team-mate [[Mark McGaw]] away on a long burst down the sideline. Cornered by the converging defence, McGaw threw an inside pass that was knocked down by Queensland but was kicked ahead into the Maroons' in-goal. In a flurry of action that saw arms, legs and bodies flailing in desperation, a hand reached out and grounded the ball just before it skidded dead.


Referee Stone was forced to make a split second pivotal decision without the help of the video referee backup of today's game. Stone ruled that McGaw had touched down centimetres inside the dead-ball line for a try, despite the protests of the Qld players and the 33,000 strong Lang Park crowd yelling for him to call in their favour and prevent the Maroons from losing their 7th game from the past 8 contests. Video replays showed Stone was correct, making his decision one of the best and bravest rulings a referee has made in a big-match situation.
Referee Stone was forced to make a split second pivotal decision without the help of the video referee backup of today's game. Stone ruled that McGaw had touched down centimetres inside the dead-ball line for a try, despite the protests of the Qld players and the 33,000 strong Lang Park crowd yelling for him to call in their favour and prevent the Maroons from losing their 7th game from the past 8 contests. While video replays ultimately proved inconclusive, leaving the decision a controversial one still debated among many today, Stone was adamant that the try had been scored and later confirmed that had there not been a try scored, he would have awarded a penalty try to NSW in any case as Qld centre [[Peter Jackson (rugby league)|Peter Jackson]] had attempted to hold back McGaw by grabbing his jumper.


===Game II===
===Game II===
{{Rugbyleaguebox
{{Rugbyleaguebox
|bg = #eeeeee
|bg = #eeeeee
|date = June 11, 1987
|date = Tuesday, June 16, 1987
|report = [http://stats.rleague.com/rl/soo/game19.html (Report)]
|report = [http://stats.rleague.com/rl/soo/game19.html (Report)]
||team1 = [[Image:Queensland colours.svg|16px]] [[Queensland State of Origin Team|Queensland]]
||team1 = [[Image:Queensland colours.svg|16px]] [[Queensland State of Origin Team|Queensland]]
Line 51: Line 51:
|score = 12–6
|score = 12–6
|points1 = ('''4''' - 1 t) [[Dale Shearer]] <br> ('''4''' - 1 t) [[Greg Dowling]] <br> ('''4''' - 1 t) [[Colin Scott (rugby league)|Colin Scott]]
|points1 = ('''4''' - 1 t) [[Dale Shearer]] <br> ('''4''' - 1 t) [[Greg Dowling]] <br> ('''4''' - 1 t) [[Colin Scott (rugby league)|Colin Scott]]
|points2 = [[Andrew Farrar]]('''4''' - 1 t) <br> [[Michael O'Connor (rugby footballer)|Michael O'Connor]] ('''2''' - 1 g)
|points2 = [[Andrew Farrar]]('''4''' - 1 t) <br> [[Michael O'Connor (rugby)|Michael O'Connor]] ('''2''' - 1 g)
|stadium = [[Sydney Cricket Ground]]
|stadium = [[Sydney Cricket Ground]]
|attendance = 42,048
|attendance = 42,048
|referee= [[Barry Gomersall]]
|referee= [[Barry Gomersall]]
|manofmatch= [[Peter Sterling]] }}
|manofmatch= [[Peter Sterling (rugby league commentator)|Peter Sterling]] }}


Game II at the [[Sydney Cricket Ground]] in front of a record Origin crowd of 42,048 was played in torrential rain. The powerful kicking of Lewis and [[Fullback (rugby league)|fullback]] [[Gary Belcher]] was superior to the Blues' who were forced to play much of the match in their own half. Queensland capitalised on New South Wales' errors to emerge with a 12-6 victory. On his 27th birthday, [[Peter Sterling]] earned the man-of-the-match award, a rare honour for a player on the losing side.
Game II at the [[Sydney Cricket Ground]] in front of a record Origin crowd of 42,048 was played in torrential rain. The powerful kicking of Lewis and [[Fullback (rugby league)|fullback]] [[Gary Belcher]] was superior to the Blues' who were forced to play much of the match in their own half. Queensland capitalised on New South Wales' errors to emerge with a 12-6 victory. On his 27th birthday, [[Peter Sterling (rugby league commentator)|Peter Sterling]] earned the man-of-the-match award, a rare honour for a player on the losing side.


Before the game, and despite Queensland having won Origin from 1980-84, as New South Wales had won the 1985 and 1986 series and 7 of the previous 8 games going into game 2 (dating back to Game 3 in 1984), and with the addition of the Brisbane Broncos and [[Gold Coast Seagulls]] into the Sydney premiership in 1988, some in the Sydney press were wondering about the future of Origin with the general feeling being that the Blues were set to embark on another period of domination like the one that had brought about the Origin concept in the first place. Queensland's gutsy win under pressure and in adverse conditions silenced the critics.
Before the game, and despite Queensland having won Origin from 1980–84, as New South Wales had won the 1985 and 1986 series and 7 of the previous 8 games going into game 2 (dating back to Game 3 in 1984), and with the addition of the Brisbane Broncos and [[Gold Coast Seagulls]] into the Sydney premiership in 1988, some in the Sydney press were wondering about the future of Origin with the general feeling being that the Blues were set to embark on another period of domination like the one that had brought about the Origin concept in the first place. Queensland's gutsy win under pressure and in adverse conditions silenced the critics.


===Game III===
===Game III===
{{Rugbyleaguebox
{{Rugbyleaguebox
|bg = #eeeeee
|bg = #eeeeee
|date = July 15, 1987
|date = Wednesday, July 15, 1987
|report = [http://stats.rleague.com/rl/soo/game20.html (Report)]
|report = [http://stats.rleague.com/rl/soo/game20.html (Report)]
|team1 = [[Image:Queensland colours.svg|16px]] [[Queensland State of Origin Team|Queensland]]
|team1 = [[Image:Queensland colours.svg|16px]] [[Queensland State of Origin Team|Queensland]]
Line 70: Line 70:
|score = 10–8
|score = 10–8
|points1 = ('''6''' - 1 t, 1 g) [[Dale Shearer]] <br> ('''4''' - 1 t) [[Bob Lindner]]
|points1 = ('''6''' - 1 t, 1 g) [[Dale Shearer]] <br> ('''4''' - 1 t) [[Bob Lindner]]
|points2 = [[David Boyle (rugby league)|David Boyle]] ('''4''' - 1 t) <br> [[Michael O'Connor (rugby)|Michael O'Connor]] ('''4''' - 2 g)
|points2 = [[David Boyle (rugby league, born 1959)|David Boyle]] ('''4''' - 1 t) <br> [[Michael O'Connor (rugby)|Michael O'Connor]] ('''4''' - 2 g)
|stadium = [[Lang Park]]
|stadium = [[Lang Park]]
|attendance = 33,602
|attendance = 33,602
Line 76: Line 76:
|manofmatch= [[Allan Langer]] }}
|manofmatch= [[Allan Langer]] }}


The series decider at [[Lang Park]] was a classic Origin knife's-edge encounter that swung from one end of the field to the other. Queensland scored two brilliantly conceived tries to lead 10-8 at halftime and defied the Blues in a scoreless second half of incredible tension. After referee [[Barry Gomersall]] ruled New South Wales centre Michael O'Connor offside, Queensland winger Dale Shearer kicked a penalty goal in the 39th minute, giving the Maroons a two-point win and the Series.<ref>{{cite news|last=Barrow|first=Tim|title=State of Origin: The deciders|url=http://www.smh.com.au/rugby-league/league-news/state-of-origin-the-deciders-20110705-1h0sq.html|accessdate=7 July 2011|newspaper=[[The Sydney Morning Herald]]|date=6 July 2011}}</ref> Langer was a triumphant figure for Queensland and in his third Origin game was named 'man of the match' after playing the game of his life.
The series decider at [[Lang Park]] was a classic Origin knife's-edge encounter that swung from one end of the field to the other. Queensland scored two brilliantly conceived tries to lead 10-8 at halftime and defied the Blues in a scoreless second half of incredible tension. After referee [[Barry Gomersall]] ruled New South Wales centre Michael O'Connor offside from a Cliff Lyons kick (though television replays showed it was line-ball), Queensland winger Dale Shearer kicked a penalty goal in the 39th minute, giving the Maroons a two-point win and the Series.<ref>{{cite news|last=Barrow|first=Tim|title=State of Origin: The deciders|url=http://www.smh.com.au/rugby-league/league-news/state-of-origin-the-deciders-20110705-1h0sq.html|access-date=7 July 2011|newspaper=[[The Sydney Morning Herald]]|date=6 July 2011}}</ref> Langer was a triumphant figure for Queensland and in his third Origin game was named 'man of the match' after playing the game of his life.


===Exhibition match===
===California Game 4===
Later in the season an exhibition match was played at Long Beach, California. The game did not count toward the series, but the match retained State of Origin status and is included in the records and player appearance calculations.
Later in the season a match was played at [[Long Beach, California|Long Beach]], [[California]]. The game did not count toward the series, but the match retained State of Origin status and is included in the records and player appearance calculations.


It was billed as an historic occasion for the game and an opportunity for rugby league to grab a foothold in the United States. It was a bold endeavour, but in reality, the match failed to create the barest ripple on America's sporting consciousness. There was minimal press coverage of the game and disputes over whether a 12,500 crowd or less (some estimates say 7,000)<ref>{{cite news
It was billed as an historic occasion for the game and an opportunity for rugby league to grab a foothold in the [[United States]]. It was a bold endeavour, but ultimately the match failed to create a lasting impression on America's sporting consciousness. There was minimal press coverage of the game and disputes over the size of the crowd,<ref>{{cite news
| last = Heads
| last = Heads
| first = Ian
| first = Ian
| coauthors =
| title = Mayer tries to avert another ARL farce in America
| title = Mayer tries to avert another ARL farce in America
| work = [[The Sydney Morning Herald]]
| work = [[The Sydney Morning Herald]]
| place =
| pages = 51
| pages = 51
| language =
| publisher =
| date = 1988-06-15
| date = 1988-06-15
| url = http://newsstore.fairfax.com.au/apps/viewDocument.ac?page=1&sy=smh&docID=news880615_0326_2855
| url = http://newsstore.fairfax.com.au/apps/viewDocument.ac?page=1&sy=smh&docID=news880615_0326_2855
| accessdate = 2009-10-07}}</ref> were in attendance, with many tickets given away free.
| access-date = 2009-10-07}}</ref> with many tickets reportedly given away.
{{Rugbyleaguebox
{{Rugbyleaguebox
|bg = #eeeeee
|bg = #eeeeee
|date = August 6, 1987
|date = Thursday, August 6, 1987
|report = [http://stats.rleague.com/rl/soo/game21.html (Report)]
|report = [http://stats.rleague.com/rl/soo/game21.html (Report)]
|team1 = [[Image:New South Wales colours.svg|16px]] [[New South Wales rugby league team|New South Wales]]
|team1 = [[Image:New South Wales colours.svg|16px]] [[New South Wales rugby league team|New South Wales]]
|team2 = [[Image:Queensland colours.svg|16px]] [[Queensland State of Origin Team|Queensland]]
|team2 = [[Image:Queensland colours.svg|16px]] [[Queensland State of Origin Team|Queensland]]
|score = 30–18
|score = 30–18
|points1 = ('''4''' - 1 t) [[Andrew Ettingshausen]] <br> ('''4''' - 1 t) [[Mark McGaw]] <br> ('''4''' - 1 t) [[Jonathan Docking]] <br> ('''14''' - 1t, 5 g)[[Michael O'Connor (rugby footballer)|Michael O'Connor]] <br> ('''4''' - 1 t) [[Cliff Lyons]]
|points1 = ('''4''' - 1 t) [[Andrew Ettingshausen]] <br> ('''4''' - 1 t) [[Mark McGaw]] <br> ('''4''' - 1 t) [[Jonathan Docking]] <br> ('''14''' - 1t, 5 g)[[Michael O'Connor (rugby)|Michael O'Connor]] <br> ('''4''' - 1 t) [[Cliff Lyons]]
|points2 = [[Tony Currie (rugby league)|Tony Currie]] ('''4''' - 1 t) <br> [[Gene Miles]] ('''4''' - 1 t) <br> [[Dale Shearer]] ('''10''' - 1 t, 3g)
|points2 = [[Tony Currie (rugby league)|Tony Currie]] ('''4''' - 1 t) <br> [[Gene Miles]] ('''4''' - 1 t) <br> [[Dale Shearer]] ('''10''' - 1 t, 3g)
|stadium =[[Veterans Memorial Stadium (Long Beach)|Veterans Memorial Stadium]], Long Beach, CA
|stadium =[[Veterans Memorial Stadium (Long Beach)|Veterans Memorial Stadium]], [[Long Beach, California|Long Beach]], [[California]], [[United States]]
|attendance = 12,349
|attendance = 12,349
|referee= Mick Stone
|referee= Mick Stone
|manofmatch= [[Peter Sterling]] }}
|manofmatch= [[Peter Sterling (rugby league commentator)|Peter Sterling]] }}


==Teams==
==Teams==

===New South Wales===
===New South Wales===
{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
Line 122: Line 119:
|-
|-
! Fullback
! Fullback
| colspan="6" | {{leagueicon|Balmain|size=16}} [[Garry Jack]]
| colspan="6" | {{leagueicon|Balmain|16}} [[Garry Jack]]
| colspan="2" | {{leagueicon|Cronulla|size=16}} [[Jonathan Docking]]
| colspan="2" | {{leagueicon|Cronulla|16}} [[Jonathan Docking]]
|-
|-
! Wing
! Wing
| colspan="4" | {{leagueicon|Manly|size=16}} [[Michael O'Connor (rugby)|Michael O'Connor]]
| colspan="4" | {{leagueicon|Manly|16}} [[Michael O'Connor (rugby)|Michael O'Connor]]
| colspan="4" | {{leagueicon|St George|size=16}} [[Brian S Johnston|Brian Johnston]]
| colspan="4" | {{leagueicon|St George|16}} [[Brian S Johnston|Brian Johnston]]
|-
|-
! Centre
! Centre
| colspan="4" | {{leagueicon|Cronulla|size=16}} [[Mark McGaw]]
| colspan="4" | {{leagueicon|Cronulla|16}} [[Mark McGaw]]
| colspan="2" | {{leagueicon|Parramatta|size=16}} [[Brett Kenny]]
| colspan="2" | {{leagueicon|Parramatta|16}} [[Brett Kenny]]
| colspan="2" | {{leagueicon|Cronulla|size=16}} [[Mark McGaw]]
| colspan="2" | {{leagueicon|Cronulla|16}} [[Mark McGaw]]
|-
|-
! Centre
! Centre
| colspan="4" | {{leagueicon|St George|size=16}} [[Brian S Johnston|Brian Johnston]]
| colspan="4" | {{leagueicon|St George|16}} [[Brian S Johnston|Brian Johnston]]
| colspan="4" | {{leagueicon|Manly|size=16}} [[Michael O'Connor (rugby)|Michael O'Connor]]
| colspan="4" | {{leagueicon|Manly|16}} [[Michael O'Connor (rugby)|Michael O'Connor]]
|-
|-
! Wing
! Wing
| colspan="2" | {{leagueicon|Cronulla|size=16}} [[Andrew Ettingshausen]]
| colspan="2" | {{leagueicon|Cronulla|16}} [[Andrew Ettingshausen]]
| colspan="2" | {{leagueicon|Canterbury|size=16}} [[Andrew Farrar]]
| colspan="2" | {{leagueicon|Canterbury|16}} [[Andrew Farrar]]
| colspan="4" | {{leagueicon|Cronulla|size=16}} [[Andrew Ettingshausen]]
| colspan="4" | {{leagueicon|Cronulla|16}} [[Andrew Ettingshausen]]
|-
|-
! Five-Eighth
! Five-Eighth
| colspan="4" | {{leagueicon|Parramatta|size=16}} [[Brett Kenny]]
| colspan="4" | {{leagueicon|Parramatta|16}} [[Brett Kenny]]
| colspan="4" | {{leagueicon|Manly|size=16}} [[Cliff Lyons]]
| colspan="4" | {{leagueicon|Manly|16}} [[Cliff Lyons]]
|-
|-
! Halfback
! Halfback
| colspan="6" | {{leagueicon|Parramatta|size=16}} [[Peter Sterling]]
| colspan="6" | {{leagueicon|Parramatta|16}} [[Peter Sterling (rugby league commentator)|Peter Sterling]]
| colspan="2" | {{leagueicon|Parramatta|size=16}} [[Peter Sterling]] (c)
| colspan="2" | {{leagueicon|Parramatta|16}} [[Peter Sterling (rugby league commentator)|Peter Sterling]] (c)
|-
|-
! Prop
! Prop
| colspan="2" | {{leagueicon|South Sydney|size=16}} [[Les Davidson]]
| colspan="2" | {{leagueicon|South Sydney|16}} [[Les Davidson]]
| colspan="2" | {{leagueicon|South Sydney|size=16}} [[David Boyle (rugby league)|David Boyle]]
| colspan="2" | {{leagueicon|South Sydney|16}} [[David Boyle (rugby league, born 1959)|David Boyle]]
| colspan="4" | {{leagueicon|Canterbury|size=16}} [[Peter Tunks]]
| colspan="4" | {{leagueicon|Canterbury|16}} [[Peter Tunks]]
|-
|-
! Hooker
! Hooker
| colspan="8" | {{leagueicon|Penrith|size=16}} [[Royce Simmons]]
| colspan="8" | {{leagueicon|Old Penrith|16}} [[Royce Simmons]]
|-
|-
! Prop
! Prop
| colspan="4" | {{leagueicon|Canterbury|size=16}} [[Pat Jarvis (rugby league)|Pat Jarvis]]
| colspan="4" | {{leagueicon|Canterbury|16}} [[Pat Jarvis (rugby league)|Pat Jarvis]]
| colspan="4" | {{leagueicon|Manly|size=16}} [[Phil Daley]]
| colspan="4" | {{leagueicon|Manly|16}} [[Phil Daley]]
|-
|-
! Second Row
! Second Row
| colspan="4" | {{leagueicon|Canterbury|size=16}} [[Steve Folkes]]
| colspan="4" | {{leagueicon|Canterbury|16}} [[Steve Folkes]]
| colspan="2" | {{leagueicon|South Sydney|size=16}} [[David Boyle (rugby league)|David Boyle]]
| colspan="2" | {{leagueicon|South Sydney|16}} [[David Boyle (rugby league, born 1959)|David Boyle]]
| colspan="2" | {{leagueicon|Manly|size=16}} [[Noel Cleal]]
| colspan="2" | {{leagueicon|Manly|16}} [[Noel Cleal]]
|-
|-
! Second Row
! Second Row
| colspan="2" | {{leagueicon|Manly|size=16}} [[Noel Cleal]]
| colspan="2" | {{leagueicon|Manly|16}} [[Noel Cleal]]
| colspan="6" | {{leagueicon|South Sydney|size=16}} [[Les Davidson]]
| colspan="6" | {{leagueicon|South Sydney|16}} [[Les Davidson]]
|-
|-
! Lock
! Lock
| colspan="6" | {{leagueicon|Balmain|size=16}} [[Wayne Pearce]] (c)
| colspan="6" | {{leagueicon|Balmain|16}} [[Wayne Pearce]] (c)
| colspan="2" | {{leagueicon|Canterbury|size=16}} [[Paul Langmack]]
| colspan="2" | {{leagueicon|Canterbury|16}} [[Paul Langmack]]
|-
|-
! Replacement
! Replacement
| colspan="4" | {{leagueicon|Manly|size=16}} [[Des Hasler]]
| colspan="4" | {{leagueicon|Manly|16}} [[Des Hasler]]
| colspan="2" | {{leagueicon|Cronulla|size=16}} [[Mark McGaw]]
| colspan="2" | {{leagueicon|Cronulla|16}} [[Mark McGaw]]
| colspan="2" | {{leagueicon|Manly|size=16}} [[Des Hasler]]
| colspan="2" | {{leagueicon|Manly|16}} [[Des Hasler]]
|-
|-
! Replacement
! Replacement
| colspan="2" | {{leagueicon|South Sydney|size=16}} [[David Boyle (rugby league)|David Boyle]]
| colspan="2" | {{leagueicon|South Sydney|16}} [[David Boyle (rugby league, born 1959)|David Boyle]]
| colspan="2" | {{leagueicon|Canterbury|size=16}} [[Paul Langmack]]
| colspan="2" | {{leagueicon|Canterbury|16}} [[Paul Langmack]]
| colspan="2" | {{leagueicon|Canterbury|size=16}} [[Steve Folkes]]
| colspan="2" | {{leagueicon|Canterbury|16}} [[Steve Folkes]]
| colspan="2" | {{leagueicon|South Sydney|size=16}} [[David Boyle (rugby league)|David Boyle]]
| colspan="2" | {{leagueicon|South Sydney|16}} [[David Boyle (rugby league, born 1959)|David Boyle]]
|-
|-
! Coach
! Coach
| colspan="8" | [[Ron Willey]]
| colspan="8" | {{leagueicon|New South Wales|16}} [[Ron Willey]]
|}
|}


Line 204: Line 201:
|-
|-
! Fullback
! Fullback
| colspan="8" | [[Image:Canberra colours.svg|16px]] [[Gary Belcher]]
| colspan="8" | {{leagueicon|Canberra|16}} [[Gary Belcher]]
|-
|-
! Wing
! Wing
| colspan="2" | {{leagueicon|Bulldogs|size=16}} [[Tony Currie (rugby league)|Tony Currie]]
| colspan="2" | {{leagueicon|Bulldogs|16}} [[Tony Currie (rugby league)|Tony Currie]]
| colspan="4" | {{leagueicon|Wynnum-Manly|16}} [[Colin Scott (rugby league)|Colin Scott]]
| colspan="4" | {{leagueicon|Wynnum-Manly|16}} [[Colin Scott (rugby league)|Colin Scott]]
| colspan="2" | {{leagueicon|Bulldogs|size=16}} [[Tony Currie (rugby league)|Tony Currie]]
| colspan="2" | {{leagueicon|Bulldogs|16}} [[Tony Currie (rugby league)|Tony Currie]]
|-
|-
! Centre
! Centre
| colspan="8" | [[Image:Canberra colours.svg|16px]] [[Peter Jackson (rugby league)|Peter Jackson]]
| colspan="8" | {{leagueicon|Canberra|16}} [[Peter Jackson (rugby league)|Peter Jackson]]
|-
|-
! Centre
! Centre
Line 218: Line 215:
|-
|-
! Wing
! Wing
| colspan="8" | {{leagueicon|Manly|size=16}} [[Dale Shearer]]
| colspan="8" | {{leagueicon|Manly|16}} [[Dale Shearer]]
|-
|-
! Five-Eighth
! Five-Eighth
Line 224: Line 221:
|-
|-
! Halfback
! Halfback
| colspan="8" | [[Image:Ipswich Colours.svg|16x16px]] [[Allan Langer]]
| colspan="8" | {{leagueicon|Ipswich Jets|16}} [[Allan Langer]]
|-
|-
! Prop
! Prop
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|-
|-
! [[Hooker (rugby league)|Hooker]]
! [[Hooker (rugby league)|Hooker]]
| colspan="8" | {{leagueicon|Redcliffe Dolphins|16}} [[Greg Conescu]]
| colspan="8" | {{leagueicon|Redcliffe|16}} [[Greg Conescu]]
|-
|-
! Prop
! Prop
| colspan="4" | {{leagueicon|North Sydney Bears|size=16}} [[Martin Bella]]
| colspan="4" | {{leagueicon|North Sydney|16}} [[Martin Bella]]
| colspan="4" | {{leagueicon|Redcliffe Dolphins|16}} [[Bryan Niebling]]
| colspan="4" | {{leagueicon|Redcliffe Dolphins|16}} [[Bryan Niebling]]
|-
|-
! Second Row
! Second Row
| colspan="8" | [[Image:Eastern Suburbs colours.svg|16px]] [[Trevor Gillmeister]]
| colspan="8" | {{leagueicon|Easts|16}} [[Trevor Gillmeister]]
|-
|-
! Second Row
! Second Row
| colspan="8" | {{leagueicon|Manly|size=16}} [[Paul Vautin]]
| colspan="8" | {{leagueicon|Manly|16}} [[Paul Vautin]]
|-
|-
! Lock
! Lock
| colspan="2" | {{leagueicon|North Sydney Bears|size=16}} [[Ian French]]
| colspan="2" | {{leagueicon|North Sydney|16}} [[Ian French]]
| colspan="6" | {{leagueicon|Parramatta|size=16}} [[Bob Lindner]]
| colspan="6" | {{leagueicon|Parramatta|16}} [[Bob Lindner]]
|-
|-
! Replacement
! Replacement
| colspan="2" | {{leagueicon|Wynnum-Manly|16}} [[Colin Scott (rugby league)|Colin Scott]]
| colspan="2" | {{leagueicon|Wynnum-Manly|16}} [[Colin Scott (rugby league)|Colin Scott]]
| colspan="4" | {{leagueicon|Bulldogs|size=16}} [[Tony Currie (rugby league)|Tony Currie]]
| colspan="4" | {{leagueicon|Canterbury|16}} [[Tony Currie (rugby league)|Tony Currie]]
| colspan="2" | {{leagueicon|Wynnum-Manly|16}} [[Colin Scott (rugby league)|Colin Scott]]
| colspan="2" | {{leagueicon|Wynnum-Manly|16}} [[Colin Scott (rugby league)|Colin Scott]]
|-
|-
! Replacement
! Replacement
| colspan="2" | [[File:Brothers Colours.svg|16x16px]] [[Gary Smith (rugby league)|Gary Smith]]
| colspan="2" | {{leagueicon|Past Brothers|16}} [[Gary Smith (rugby league)|Gary Smith]]
| colspan="6" | {{leagueicon|North Sydney Bears|size=16}} [[Ian French]]
| colspan="6" | {{leagueicon|North Sydney|16}} [[Ian French]]
|-
|-
! Coach
! Coach
| colspan="8" | [[Wayne Bennett (rugby league)|Wayne Bennett]]
| colspan="8" | {{leagueicon|Canberra|16}} [[Wayne Bennett (rugby league)|Wayne Bennett]]
|}
|}


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{{State of Origin}}
{{State of Origin}}
{{Rugby league in Australia}}
{{Rugby League in the USA}}


[[Category:State of Origin series]]
[[Category:State of Origin series]]
[[Category:1987 in Australian rugby league|State of Origin series]]
[[Category:1987 in Australian rugby league|State of Origin series]]
[[Category:Sports in Long Beach, California]]
[[Category:Sports in Long Beach, California]]
[[Category:Rugby league in California]]
[[Category:Rugby league in the United States]]
[[Category:Rugby league in the United States]]
[[Category:1987 in California]]
[[Category:1987 in sports in California|State]]

Latest revision as of 03:02, 30 July 2024

1987 State of Origin series
Won by Queensland (4th series title)
Series margin2-1
Points scored72
Attendance109,091 (ave. 36,364 per match)
Top points scorer(s) Michael O'Connor
Dale Shearer (14 points each)
Top try scorer(s) Dale Shearer (3 tries)

The 1987 State of Origin series saw the sixth time the annual three-match series between the New South Wales and Queensland representative rugby league football teams was contested entirely under 'State of Origin' selection rules. It saw the emergence of new faces who would go on to become Origin legends (Queensland's Allan Langer and New South Wales' Andrew Ettingshausen), record crowds for all three matches, and an additional exhibition game played in Long Beach, California (near Los Angeles).

The 1987 series was also the last in which players for Queensland were selected from teams of the Brisbane Rugby League premiership. With the introduction of the Brisbane and Gold Coast clubs to the New South Wales Rugby League premiership the following year, after this series all players in State of Origin would be sourced from NSWRL teams. The final seven BRL players selected for Queensland were captain Wally Lewis, Gene Miles, Allan Langer, Colin Scott, Greg Conescu, Greg Dowling and Bryan Niebling, all of whom joined the Brisbane Broncos in 1988.

Games

[edit]

Game I

[edit]

Mark Murray had missed just one Origin clash in the first five series but when he suffered a serious eye injury that forced his premature retirement in the off-season of 1986, it was widely expected that in-form Eastern Suburbs half-back Laurie Spina would be called into the side after good form for the Roosters and impressing in a Qld selection trial at Lang Park. Instead, and against the wishes of coach Wayne Bennett, the Maroons selectors opted for the jockey-sized Ipswich Jets half-back Allan Langer then just 68 kg and a month shy of his 21st birthday. Spina would never again get the chance to represent Queensland.

Tuesday, June 2, 1987
New South Wales 20–16 Queensland
(12 - 2 t, 2 g) Michael O'Connor
(4 - 1 t) Mark McGaw
(4 - 1 t) Les Davidson 		(Report)
 Dale Shearer(4 - 1 t)
Tony Currie(4 - 1 t)
Greg Dowling (4 - 1 t)
Gary Belcher (2 - 1 g)
Peter Jackson (2 - 1 g)
Lang Park
Attendance: 33,441
Referee: Mick Stone
Player of the Match: Les Davidson


In his first match at Origin level, Langer proved he was a worthy partner for Wally Lewis in the halves and silenced his doubters with a performance that went close to earning him the man-of-the-match award which was won by Blues' second rower Les Davidson.

With only minutes left in the game the scores were locked at 16-all and heading for the first drawn result when referee Mick Stone made one of the most controversial refereeing decisions in Origin history, awarding the winning try to Mark McGaw. New South Wales' half-back Peter Sterling missed with a field-goal attempt before launching a final backline raid down the right hand side of the field. Cronulla Sharks centre Andrew Ettingshausen, on debut and playing on the wing, sent his club team-mate Mark McGaw away on a long burst down the sideline. Cornered by the converging defence, McGaw threw an inside pass that was knocked down by Queensland but was kicked ahead into the Maroons' in-goal. In a flurry of action that saw arms, legs and bodies flailing in desperation, a hand reached out and grounded the ball just before it skidded dead.

Referee Stone was forced to make a split second pivotal decision without the help of the video referee backup of today's game. Stone ruled that McGaw had touched down centimetres inside the dead-ball line for a try, despite the protests of the Qld players and the 33,000 strong Lang Park crowd yelling for him to call in their favour and prevent the Maroons from losing their 7th game from the past 8 contests. While video replays ultimately proved inconclusive, leaving the decision a controversial one still debated among many today, Stone was adamant that the try had been scored and later confirmed that had there not been a try scored, he would have awarded a penalty try to NSW in any case as Qld centre Peter Jackson had attempted to hold back McGaw by grabbing his jumper.

Game II

[edit]
Tuesday, June 16, 1987
Queensland 12–6 New South Wales
(4 - 1 t) Dale Shearer
(4 - 1 t) Greg Dowling
(4 - 1 t) Colin Scott 		(Report)
 Andrew Farrar(4 - 1 t)
Michael O'Connor (2 - 1 g)
Sydney Cricket Ground
Attendance: 42,048
Referee: Barry Gomersall
Player of the Match: Peter Sterling

Game II at the Sydney Cricket Ground in front of a record Origin crowd of 42,048 was played in torrential rain. The powerful kicking of Lewis and fullback Gary Belcher was superior to the Blues' who were forced to play much of the match in their own half. Queensland capitalised on New South Wales' errors to emerge with a 12-6 victory. On his 27th birthday, Peter Sterling earned the man-of-the-match award, a rare honour for a player on the losing side.

Before the game, and despite Queensland having won Origin from 1980–84, as New South Wales had won the 1985 and 1986 series and 7 of the previous 8 games going into game 2 (dating back to Game 3 in 1984), and with the addition of the Brisbane Broncos and Gold Coast Seagulls into the Sydney premiership in 1988, some in the Sydney press were wondering about the future of Origin with the general feeling being that the Blues were set to embark on another period of domination like the one that had brought about the Origin concept in the first place. Queensland's gutsy win under pressure and in adverse conditions silenced the critics.

Game III

[edit]
Wednesday, July 15, 1987
Queensland 10–8 New South Wales
(6 - 1 t, 1 g) Dale Shearer
(4 - 1 t) Bob Lindner 		(Report)
 David Boyle (4 - 1 t)
Michael O'Connor (4 - 2 g)
Lang Park
Attendance: 33,602
Referee: Barry Gomersall
Player of the Match: Allan Langer

The series decider at Lang Park was a classic Origin knife's-edge encounter that swung from one end of the field to the other. Queensland scored two brilliantly conceived tries to lead 10-8 at halftime and defied the Blues in a scoreless second half of incredible tension. After referee Barry Gomersall ruled New South Wales centre Michael O'Connor offside from a Cliff Lyons kick (though television replays showed it was line-ball), Queensland winger Dale Shearer kicked a penalty goal in the 39th minute, giving the Maroons a two-point win and the Series.[1] Langer was a triumphant figure for Queensland and in his third Origin game was named 'man of the match' after playing the game of his life.

California Game 4

[edit]

Later in the season a match was played at Long Beach, California. The game did not count toward the series, but the match retained State of Origin status and is included in the records and player appearance calculations.

It was billed as an historic occasion for the game and an opportunity for rugby league to grab a foothold in the United States. It was a bold endeavour, but ultimately the match failed to create a lasting impression on America's sporting consciousness. There was minimal press coverage of the game and disputes over the size of the crowd,[2] with many tickets reportedly given away.

Thursday, August 6, 1987
New South Wales 30–18 Queensland
(4 - 1 t) Andrew Ettingshausen
(4 - 1 t) Mark McGaw
(4 - 1 t) Jonathan Docking
(14 - 1t, 5 g)Michael O'Connor
(4 - 1 t) Cliff Lyons 		(Report)
 Tony Currie (4 - 1 t)
Gene Miles (4 - 1 t)
Dale Shearer (10 - 1 t, 3g)
Veterans Memorial Stadium, Long Beach, California, United States
Attendance: 12,349
Referee: Mick Stone
Player of the Match: Peter Sterling

Teams

[edit]

New South Wales

[edit]
Position Game 1 Game 2 Game 3 Exhibition*
Fullback Garry Jack Jonathan Docking
Wing Michael O'Connor Brian Johnston
Centre Mark McGaw Brett Kenny Mark McGaw
Centre Brian Johnston Michael O'Connor
Wing Andrew Ettingshausen Andrew Farrar Andrew Ettingshausen
Five-Eighth Brett Kenny Cliff Lyons
Halfback Peter Sterling Peter Sterling (c)
Prop Les Davidson David Boyle Peter Tunks
Hooker Royce Simmons
Prop Pat Jarvis Phil Daley
Second Row Steve Folkes David Boyle Noel Cleal
Second Row Noel Cleal Les Davidson
Lock Wayne Pearce (c) Paul Langmack
Replacement Des Hasler Mark McGaw Des Hasler
Replacement David Boyle Paul Langmack Steve Folkes David Boyle
Coach Ron Willey

Queensland

[edit]
Position Game 1 Game 2 Game 3 Exhibition*
Fullback Gary Belcher
Wing Tony Currie Colin Scott Tony Currie
Centre Peter Jackson
Centre Gene Miles
Wing Dale Shearer
Five-Eighth Wally Lewis (c)
Halfback Allan Langer
Prop Greg Dowling
Hooker Greg Conescu
Prop Martin Bella Bryan Niebling
Second Row Trevor Gillmeister
Second Row Paul Vautin
Lock Ian French Bob Lindner
Replacement Colin Scott Tony Currie Colin Scott
Replacement Gary Smith Ian French
Coach Wayne Bennett

References

[edit]
  1. ^ Barrow, Tim (6 July 2011). "State of Origin: The deciders". The Sydney Morning Herald. Retrieved 7 July 2011.
  2. ^ Heads, Ian (15 June 1988). "Mayer tries to avert another ARL farce in America". The Sydney Morning Herald. p. 51. Retrieved 7 October 2009.

Sources

[edit]
  • Big League's 25 Years of Origin Collectors' Edition, News Magazines, Surry Hills, Sydney
[edit]
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