Reece Walsh only turns 21 next month, but he credited a much younger star for his breakout performance in Origin 1.
Walsh came into the match under the spotlight after he was picked ahead of Maroons incumbent Kalyn Ponga for the opening match at Adelaide Oval.
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But coach Billy Slater liked what he saw in Walsh, with the young Broncos fullback repaying that faith with an outstanding performance in Queensland’s 26-18 victory.
Afterwards he revealed his inspiration in a gorgeous post-match interview.
“This is my little girl Leila,” Walsh said holding his daughter, who was kitted out in a Maroons’ hoodie and beanie, complete with teddy bear ears.
“She’s two mate and she’s my rock. She’s the reason why I go out there and put on this jersey.”
“I got my jersey,” Leila added as hearts melted across the country.
There was plenty of talk leading up to the match that the Blues were planning to target the Queensland debutant.
While admitting he was “full of nerves” leading up to kick-off, Walsh handled the occasion beautifully.
“Just doing my job mate,” he said.
“Everyone’s going to question myself, but Billy’s a good coach and he had the trust in me and I was confident throughout the week.
“All I had to do was my job.”
Walsh was trending on social media after the match, with one fan commenting he “looked like he’s played in 10 Origins”.
He also earned a shout-out from Blues great Garry Jack, who tweeted his fellow fullback had a “fantastic game”.
Another youngster earning plaudits was 21-year-old Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow, who scored two tries including an electrifying effort that put Queensland in front for good in the 74th minute.
It was Tabuai-Fidow’s second Origin appearance and first since Game 1 back in 2021.
Coach Slater couldn’t have been prouder of the duo.
“They were super,” Slater said of Walsh and Tabuai-Fidow.
“It’s easy to sensationalise a stat to suit your narrative with the seven changes to our side, but Hamiso was fantastic.
“There was a big moment when we needed him and he delivered with that try.
“And Reece played really tough. He attacked the high ball and was there when Queensland needed him.
“I’m so proud of our effort.”
Walsh was also asked about Tabuai-Fidow, who was rewarded by Slater after his impressive season for the Dolphins after making the switch from the Cowboys.
“He’s a terrific player. Lots of questions about Hammer and I think he shut everyone up tonight,” Walsh said.
“He’s a quality player and I love playing alongside Hammer. Me and him played juniors together and when he’s in the clear, he’s very hard to stop.
“I’m proud of Hammer tonight.”