State of Origin plea from Nathan Hindmarsh to back the Blues against Queensland

WE might be down, but we're certainly not out. Or, at least former Blues player Nathan Hindmarsh thinks so.

Origin

WE might be down, but we're certainly not out. Or, at least former Blues player Nathan Hindmarsh thinks so.

After losing seven straight State of Origin series to Queensland, the Blues this morning launched a public campaign at Central station to win back the fans.

Hindmarsh said it was important for the squad to go into the series with confidence.

"The most important thing is that we play as a team," he said.

"I think our problem in the past has been that we have been too worried about losing and being the next team to go down to Queensland. We have to go in with confidence."

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He said the Maroons would this year be without Darren Lockyer and Petero Civoniceva - two key players.

"The amount of times Lockyer has scored in the last minute and crushed us is unbelievable," Hindmarsh said.

"Both him and Petero will be big losses to their squad. I think we are finally starting to close the gap.

"It's going to be very evenly contested but this could be our year.''

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NSW Premier Barry O'Farrell cut the official ribbon this morning to open the "Origin Domination'' campaign.

"There's no better contest in this country than the State of Origin," he said.

"I'm looking forward to seeing the Blues bring home the trophy this year."

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NSW Rugby League general manager Geoff Carr said the Blues had a strong advantage this year with two home games.

"The atmosphere at ANZ Stadium is to die for," he said.

He also suggested a train from Central to Olympic Park would be converted into a "Hayne Train'', named after Parramatta fullback Jarryd Hayne who is expected to wear the number one jersey in game one.

The Blues squad will be announced on Sunday.

Origin