Billy Slater and Michael Maguire have met for the first time since the infamous “glass houses” sledge from the NSW Blues coach ahead of Wednesday night’s do-or-die clash.
Maguire lit the fuse early in camp for game two when quizzed about the reaction to Joseph Suaalii’s high shot on Reece Walsh, urging those from north of the border to look in their own backyard when it comes to unsavoury on-field incidents.
Many believed the barb was directed at Slater, who had his fair share of misdemeanours during his phenomenal career for the Storm and Maroons.
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Just over 24 hours before State of Origin kicks off at the famous MCG, Slater was quizzed on what his ‘house was made of’ and his relationship with Maguire.
“It’s got a bit of glass in there, literally,” he said.
“We’re good … we’re actually not playing, I don’t know if you know that. Our days are gone. To be honest, I didn’t feel it was directed at me.
“I’ve kept my head out of the noise this week and really focused on what my job is and what’s important to me and that’s getting my team to perform.”
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While the question marks over the reason behind Maguire’s sledge remains a mystery, the Blues mentor remained tight-lipped on whether it was directed at his rival coach.
“I think you all worked that out, so I’ll leave that with you guys,” he said.
“I’ll leave you to keep working that one out, I’m sure people are understanding where that one is coming from. One thing I do is look after my players.
“Yeah [we are] fine, we spent a fair bit of time together a few years ago – we’re all good.”
The fallout from the ugly incident from the series opener will see Suaalii sidelined this time around due to suspension, while Walsh hasn’t played any football for three weeks.
Walsh has been named to take the field for the Maroons and according to his coach, there’s no need for concern when it comes to the Broncos speedster.
”That’s the first time I’ve thought about demons and Reece Walsh,” Slater said.
“He’s been incredible all week, he was incredible in his preparation for game one and started the game really well … I expect no different.”
Maguire was asked if NSW would look to target Walsh in similar fashion, giving a blunt response in another frosty moment at the presser.
”I think we put a lot of focus on all their players, it’s not an individual,” he said.
“I’ve got a great group of men and like most things, you focus on yourselves but you’re aware of what the opposition do and you’ve got to shut that down.”