Ali adamant Maroons must not be one-hit wonders

Queensland captain Ali Brigginshaw has implored the Maroons not to undo the good work of 2020 when they face a desperate NSW side on Friday night at Sunshine Coast Stadium.

The Maroons go in as favourites on the back of a 24-18 win last November but Brigginshaw believes the Sky Blues hold the upper hand after finishing that game stronger in the second half.

Queensland took a 24-6 lead into the final quarter of the 2020 Origin but were almost run down by NSW, who scored three tries in the final 11 minutes to set up a grandstand finish. 

NSW has been the stronger performers in the second halves of games since 2018, scoring eight tries to four overall.

"They finished the game last year really positively and were on top at the end. I expect them to take that confidence into the game," Brigginshaw told NRL.com.

"We've got to stop that when they come onto the field but ultimately what it comes down to is who is switched on and who comes prepared.

"I think it's good to have experienced a win because you don't want that to be taken away. I think we've got that in the back of our minds.

"We walked into the sheds today and it brings back plenty of memories. We've peaked at the right time this week and we are are ready to go."

Like the Sky Blues, the Maroons trained in dry conditions at Sunshine Coast Stadium on Thursday afternoon but are expecting rain to play a part on Friday night.

"I predicted the rain, after last year's weather it's not out of my mind," Brigginshaw said.

"Speaking to the Melbourne Storm boys who are here this week they said it's always windy and a chance of rain. 

"Hopefully it's not because the women's game is good when we can throw it around and back ourselves. We've trained with the wet ball just in case."

Maroons assistant coach Aaron Zimmerle confirmed experienced forwards Tallisha Harden and Rona Peters were firming to be late inclusions after taking part in the final training run.  

Their inclusions could see one or two of the potential five debutantes miss out on a maiden appearance.

"We've given everyone the longest opportunity to prove themselves fit," Zimmerle said.

"When you talk about Tallisha and Rona you know what they've done at this level.

"They're match-winners in their own right and bring so much to the group.

"If that decision gets made and you go with a veteran who knows has played at that level before, whoever misses out has still had the opportunity to prepare.

"When they get their opportunity next year or whenever it comes they'll be better for it."