NSW claim game two of State of Origin

State of Origin is headed for a decider in three weeks time.

New South Wales have lived up to their favourites tag for game two in Sydney, with a 16-12 victory levelling the series at 1-all.

A crucial period just after half time made the difference, with the Blues scoring 12 points while Queensland playmaker Cooper Cronk was in the sin bin.

Earlier, the hosts opened the scoring through fullback Brett Stewart, only for the Maroons to snatch a 6-4 halftime lead when prop Ben Hannant scored right on the hooter.

While Cronk cooled his heels for obstructing Blues five eight Todd Carney in the in goal, New South Wales scored twice through Stewart's second, and Josh Morris.

Queensland gave themselves a chance to clinch the match towards the end when Greg Inglis scored in the corner, but the Blues held on to give themselves a chance of ending Queensland's dominance in game three.

The decider will be played in Brisbane on July 4.

Robbie Farah made an incredible 63 tackles in the win.

Coach Ricky Stuart is in awe.

"A terrific individual performance if that's the case but I don't like talking too much about individuals straight away because you like to see the game again but if they're 63 fare dinkum tackles then you can write about it."

Melbourne star Billy Slater and Brisbane forward Corey Parker are both facing extended time on the sidelines after suffering injuries in last night's match.

Slater will have scans on a possible ligament tear to his knee, while Parker has already had surgery on a nasty gash to his left leg.

The gaping wound went through to the bone and the risk of infection is now the biggest concern.

Photo: Getty Images