Game One of this year's Holden State of Origin Series marks the 100th clash between fierce rugby league rivals New South Wales and Queensland. To mark the occasion NRL.com is reliving 100 of the most iconic moments of the past 34 years of this compelling contest. Right through to Game Three on July 9, we'll publish videos of the Milestones, Superstars, Gamebreakers, Superplays, Heroes, Emotions and Controversy - all of the exciting elements that have made Origin the most-watched spectacle in rugby league. This week: Origin's Greatest Superstars.
96. Game Three, 2001: Allan Langer's comeback
With New South Wales dominating State of Origin the year before with a 3-0 sweep, Queensland was looking for revenge. With the series locked up at one win apiece and Queensland severely down on star power they have been renowned for over the years, Maroons coach Wayne Bennett did the unthinkable and sent an SOS to then Warrington halfback Allan Langer to save Queensland. Unbeknown to most, Langer flew back to Brisbane's ANZ Stadium for his 31st Origin appearance and from there the wily halfback orchestrated an absolute blitzing of the Blues. Langer produced three try assists before putting the icing on the cake of the Maroons 40-14 win with a try of his own in the memorable Queensland series win.
