NSW goalkickers, ranked: Who should take conversions for the Blues in Origin decider?

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Joshua Mayne
NSW goalkickers, ranked: Who should take conversions for the Blues in Origin decider? image

State of Origin will head to Sydney for a decider after Queensland tied the series in Perth.

New South Wales lost Game II by just two points, with four missed conversions a costly factor. 

Notably, Zac Lomax took over the goalkicking duties from Nathan Cleary at Optus Stadium.

The latter had some compression material around the thigh of his dominant leg, which suggests he was not at full fitness. 

MORE: Blues pair charged after Game II

Does coach Laurie Daley make some changes before Game III?

The Sporting News looks at the Blues' options.

NSW Blues goalkickers, ranked

Data accurate as of June 19, 2025

1. Nathan Cleary

Despite missing all three of his conversions in Game I, there is no doubt that Cleary is NSW's best goalkicker.

This implies that he had some kind of leg issue in Perth that prevented him from taking shots at goal.

He has kicked 40 goals for the Panthers in 2025 with an impressive 90.91 per cent success rate.

If he is fully fit for Game III, he will almost certainly be given the tee. 

2. Latrell Mitchell

Mitchell has been strong as the Rabbitohs' kicker this season since returning to regular action.

His 84.62 per cent success rate has seen him slot 22 goals in just eight club appearances.

The 28-year-old's 'clutch factor' must also not be overlooked. 

He typically delivers when his team needs him most, and could be the man tasked with the goalkicking responsibilities in a high-pressure decider.

3. Stephen Crichton

Crichton is one of the league's most consistent goalkickers, recording an 83.72 per cent success rate this campaign.

The centre was given the tee during the 2023 Origin series, although his accuracy (five goals at 71.43 per cent) dipped somewhat.

He hasn't had another attempt on goal in a NSW jersey since, but remains a strong option if required.

4. Zac Lomax

There's no hiding from the fact that Lomax has struggled off the tee this series. 

He missed his sole attempt in the opener, before going two-for-five in Game II. 

The Eels star has a 78.26 per cent conversion rate in the NRL this season, which is about average in the league. 

Daley clearly views him as the second-best option for the Blues, but his confidence in front of goal may now be low.

Hon. mention: Matt Burton

Burton has yet to play for NSW this year, but has been the team's 18th man for both matches.

If he earns a promotion to the starting side for the decider, he would be a trustworthy kicking option.

While Bulldogs teammate Crichton takes the majority of conversions, Burton has slotted 13 goals this season with 86.67 per cent accuracy.