Workhorse Kaufusi pumped for Perth

Queensland Maroons second rower Felise Kaufusi is relieved the Maroons finished on top in the State of Origin series opener and is now looking forward to Perth. 

The workhorse clocked 121 run metres, made 33 tackles and applied the most kick pressure during the Maroons' 18-14 win over New South Wales. 

"It's a big relief," the 27-year-old said. 

"We're happy we were able to get the win at home in front of our fans. I guess we can go home smiling and sleeping well tonight."

Kaufusi said despite the winning performance, there were things the team could work on before Game II. 

"There's always going to be things to improve on," Kaufusi said. 

"It's a new edge - it's a new-look edge, but I've got that much confidence in us and hopefully we can build on that in Game II."

Debutants David Fifita, Joe Ofahengaue and Moses Mbye did not go unnoticed by the Melbourne Storm star.  

"They were awesome man," Kaufusi said.

''The energy that they came on with... I thought they went really well, so credit to them. They've got to get through another two games.

"Bring on Perth."