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 Milestones.
15. Game 3, 2003: Bill Harrigan referees last Origin game for a record total of 21
With NSW having already locked up the series on the back of two stellar performances from Andrew Johns, 52,130 packed into Suncorp Stadium in the hope of seeing Queensland restore some pride, and they did in the form of a 36-6 thumping, but they were also witness to the last Origin hurrah of one of rugby league's most intriguing characters, as veteran referee Bill Harrigan blew time on for a record 21st and final time in the interstate clash. A divisive figure in the game (Manly legend Bob Fulton once famously told him "I hope you get run over by a cement truck"), 'Hollywood' Harrigan was nevertheless widely regarded as the best referee of the modern era having officiated in 10 Grand Finals and almost 400 first grade games before going on to become NRL referees boss from 2010-12.
