What was said about State of Origin III, the series decider at Suncorp Stadium.

"I'm pretty relieved ... everyone in the stadium was wanting a win, the boys I know wanted to win, I wanted to win it - I couldn't ask for anything more ... it's been a helluva ride and I will never forget these times playing for Queensland." - Queensland captain DARREN LOCKYER reflects on the crowning moment of his glorious State of Origin career.

"What a great moment - that's the way greats should retire." - Maroons coach MAL MENINGA declares it's Darren Lockyer's night and the greatest moment of his coaching career.

"I think this team has found a way to beat Queensland - we rattled their cage but they bounced back extremely well." NSW coach RICKY STUART adamant all is not lost despite a sixth successive series loss for the Blues.

"It's like watching a game of tennis where one player forgot his racquet." - Former Blues coach PHIL GOULD on the opening 37 minute onslaught where NSW found themselves down 24-0.

"A few calls that went against us I thought were terrible calls and we didn't respond to it and they got a couple of pretty soft tries ... In the end (we lose by) 10 points, I thought they were probably a lot more than 10 points better than us." - NSW captain PAUL GALLEN expresses frustration at the referees but is resigned to the fact the better team won.

"It's always hard to see a team-mate get injured, especially him. He's such an important part of our team. We can only just hope, for his sake, that it's not too bad." - Maroons prop MATT SCOTT praying that North Queensland Cowboys team-mate JOHNATHAN THURSTON'S knee injury isn't as bad as first thought.

"In my eyes, he's the greatest player to ever play the game." - Queensland centre JUSTIN HODGES has no doubt where retiring captain Darren Lockyer ranks amongst the game's elite.

"They're just great players - when you're not coaching against them they're beautiful to watch." - Blues coach RICKY STUART applauds his conquerors.

"To the Queensland people, it has been a privilege to play for you - thank you and goodbye." - DARREN LOCKYER signs off after 36 Origin games.

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