The New South Wales froward Trent Waterhouse became the first Blues player dismissed in a State of Origin match as NSW avoided a series whitewash with a spiteful 28-16 win over Queensland in game 3 in Brisbane last night.
Queensland's failed bid to become the greatest Maroons side in Origin history took a back seat at Suncorp Stadium with the match ending in a series of fiery clashes.
Waterhouse was dismissed after blind-siding veteran prop Steve Price as the Maroon traded punches with Blue Brett White.
The Penrith forward was later slapped with a grade one contrary conduct charge, carrying a one-week ban, only escaping more punishment when the match review committee claimed Price was already unconscious before Waterhouse's hit.
The spite continued shortly after with Ben Creagh and Sam Thaiday sin-binned in the game's final minute.
Warriors captain Price, who was carried from the field, was being observed by medical staff overnight but they expect him to be fine.
