State of Origin: Gallen lights fuse by calling Maroons grubs

Paul Gallen of the Blues. Photo / Getty Images

Blues skipper labels Queensland 'disrespectful' for playing injured Slater in Origin II.

Paul Gallen has set the scene for an explosive State of Origin II, after labelling Queensland "disrespectful" and "grubby" in his final press conference before tonight's MCG league showpiece in Melbourne.

In one of the most entertaining and pointed media conferences of the season, the Blues skipper claimed the Maroons were showing NSW no respect by carrying an injured Billy Slater into game two.

Gallen also spoke again of what he labelled the Maroons' "grubby" tactics in their win in Origin I in Sydney last month and said the Blues had a firm plan to combat anything Queensland threw their way in game two.

"We have been used to their grubby tactics for years now, in game one I suppose the boys were a bit naive to think that some of the so-called angels of the game don't get up to any of it," Gallen said.

Gallen again identified Nate Myles as the Maroons' chief niggler in the Blues' eyes, and said Slater putting "his shoulder into" Josh Morris as he lay on the ground in game one, was among several incidents that upset NSW. The Blues are also incensed by news Slater is set for season-ending surgery on his shoulder, the day after Origin II.

"If he is planning on having surgery on Thursday, I think that is a sign of where their team is at the moment," Gallen said.

"They think they are that much better than us, they think they are going to get this win and it is going to be the end of the series and Billy is going to get surgery and have the rest of the year off.

"It is a little bit disrespectful to us, but it is easy to be talking about it and having a go at him. We have to go out there and get the win tomorrow night and prove that we are the better side."

Queensland captain Cameron Smith admits Daly Cherry-Evans faces a huge challenge stepping up in place of Cooper Cronk tonight.

But Smith has backed Cherry-Evans to put his stamp on the halfback role.

Last year Cherry-Evans failed to impress when filling in for the injured Cronk in game two but he was limited to just one training session in camp due to a niggling knee complaint.

Smith said he was looking forward to seeing what the Manly playmaker could produce after a full preparation at halfback this time.

"This is a huge challenge for Daly. There is no doubt. It's a big one," Smith said. "He wants to put his stamp on the No7 role. I think he will do well.

"He is looking forward to it and the build-up has been solid for him."

Smith claimed Queensland were not fazed by NSW talking up the niggle ahead of game two, saying the Blues can "do whatever they want to upset our players".

- AAP