It's time for Game 2 of the 2025 Women's State of Origin series.
NSW trumped Queensland a fortnight ago and will be aiming to take an unassailable 2-0 lead in Sydney on Thursday night.
Can the Blues continue their momentum, or will the reigning champion Maroons power back into the series just like they did last year?
Below are The Sporting News’ predictions and best bets for Game 2 – all odds per bookmaker Sportsbet.
MORE: Maroons ready to fight for Origin redemption
Best bet
The Blues are the deserved favourites coming into this clash.
We cannot discount the Maroons, though, who no doubt possess the ability to turn things around.
They did so last year, recovering from a loss in the opener before storming home in impressive fashion.
However, we feel that New South Wales will learn from the 2024 series and claim a narrow win.
John Strange's team showed some good mentality in Game 1, sticking to their plan despite being pegged back twice by Queensland in the early stages.
SN's tip: NSW 1-12 ($2.80)
Value bet
Ellie Johnston was outstanding in her Origin debut, so why can't she take things to the next level?
The powerful prop will start in the front row, but we're predicting her to do damage late as Queensland battle fatigue.
If she barges over for a couple of tries and runs for over 100 metres (she racked up 93 in the opener), Johnston will put herself right in contention for player of the match honours.
SN's tip: Ellie Johnston player of the match ($17.00)
Same game multi
NSW's left edge was lethal in Game 1, so we like winger Jayme Fressard – who bagged a double at Suncorp – to score on Thursday.
Add on a late Johnston four-pointer to secure a result for the Blues, and you've got a decent-looking multi.
SN's tip: NSW to win + Jayme Fressard to score a try + Ellie Johnston to score a try ($8.25)