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 Controversy.
79. Game Three, 2000: NSW thrash Queensland 56-16. Matt Gidley's late try is the best of the Blues' nine four-pointers. Brian Fletcher 'grenade' try celebration a la "Any Given Sunday"
2000 was a spectacular year for the Blues. Up 2-0 heading into Origin III the Blues had everything on their side as they raced away to a crushing 56-16 win though insult was added to injury when larrikin back-rower Bryan Fletcher crossed for a try of his own. Just as they probably had been planning it all week, Fletcher took a bite at the ball as if it was a grenade and threw it between a host of his own players. Ducking to avoid the 'explosion' Fletcher set the precedent for his teammates to jump out of the way at all different angles to avoid the 'blast'. Queenslanders were not impressed.