State of Origin Game II LIVE updates: NSW look to take out series against Queensland at Optus Stadium in Perth
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6.04pm
Slippery start on the cards for Origin II
It's been a temperamental day weather-wise in the West, which could spell for a slippery start to Origin II.
According to our weatherman Christian Nicolussi on the ground in Perth, it's been on and off showers this afternoon. But in good news for the 55,000 or so fans turning out to Optus Stadium, it looks like it may have cleared for the night.
Any kind of breeze has also disappeared with the rain, and it's a pleasant 18 degrees for the players.
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Have your say: who will win?
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Welcome one, welcome all
Evening sports fans,
By now you know the drill - pizza ordered, chores done and if you're Gladys Berejiklian, can of Coke on ice - it's State of Origin night.
We're in Perth for this one, the WA capital with a shiny new rugby league team on the way and a media baron determined to ignore it.
Queensland need to win to keep the series alive, NSW were superior in game one and that's piled all sorts of pressure on Maroons coach Billy Slater.
The Blues are warm favourites, the Maroons distinct outsiders - yep, it's definitely Origin.
Michael Chammas and Christian Nicolussi are our men on the ground in Perth, Dan Walsh here Sydney-side jibbering away with Billie Eder and Kayla Olaya keeping a tight rein on things.
Kick-off is at 8:05pm AEST and we've got plenty to keep you amused until then.
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