Jarome Luai Calling The Referee 'Bro' During State Of Origin Was Absolutely Brilliant

Jarome Luai was the breath of fresh air New South Wales needed if they stood any chance of shaking their State of Origin hangover from last year's shock upset.

And the Blues, with Luai in the halves, certainly delivered.

The Penrith Panthers five-eighth was in sensational from on his Origin debut, constantly threatening in attack and being just as reliable in defence.

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The 24-year-old had a catalogue of highlights from the historic victory, but one moment in particular stood out from the rest.

When Blues fullback James Tedesco was taken out in mid-air by Queensland forward Joe Ofahengaue, Luai ran in to protect his teammate.

Clearly not afraid of a bit of niggle, Luai's actions got under the skin of Ofahengaue who proceeded to shove him in the face.

Luai did well not to react, but when referee Gerard Sutton cautioned him for running in, the Blues debutant replied with a classic one-liner.

"Did you see his (Ofahengaue) eyes, it was all on him (Tedesco) bro," Luai said to Sutton.

State of Origin fans watching from hom were absolutely loving the casual "bro" thrown in on the end.

And when he was told that he was the first person in Origin history to refer to an official as "bro", Luai simply laughed.

"Hearing that blows my mind," he said.

"I think I was too comfortable out there, so I'll try to be more formal next time.''

The Penrith Panthers stars certainly transferred their scintillating club form onto the Origin stage.

One man that seemed to reap the benefits of Luai's inclusion was his halves partner Nathan Cleary.

"He was less nervous than I was," Cleary said of Luai.

"It just sums him up and it's the way he plays.

"His confidence is infectious on the rest of the group.

"That's why I love playing alongside him. He was enormous again.

"I had full belief he would play well, but I think that puts it all beyond doubt.

"Origin really suits him because he's an X-factor. People were probably worried about his defence, but I think he defended really well.

"We first played together in under-16s and now we're in Origin - it's a dream come true.''

Topics: Rugby League, nrl, Australia

Max Sherry

Max Sherry is a journalist for SPORTbible Australia. After migrating Down Under from London as a teenager, he instantly fell in love with Aussie sport and its culture. From NRL to AFL, cricket to rugby — you name it, Max watches it (with a beer in hand, of course). During his time at Fox Sports, he worked in the football department covering the Premier League, A-League, Socceroos and Matildas. Born a stone's throw away from West Ham's training ground, Max is obviously a die-hard Liverpool fan.

@maxysherry