NSW rugby league found salvation in the left boot of Shaun Timmins at Telstra Stadium.

After 83 minutes in the opening game of the State of Origin series, Timmins golden point field goal that was all that separated Queensland and NSW in the first match in Origin history to go into extra time.

And his heroics ensured the Blues finished a forgettable week with a memorable 9-8 victory in another Origin thriller.

The opening 40 minutes won't be stored in a time capsule for fans to savour in 50 years.

But the game developed into an absorbing contest in the second half as it edged towards its climax.

With the sides locked at 8-8 and 20 minutes remaining, NSW halfback Craig Gower - who could miss the rest of the series with a knee injury - had field goal attempts charged down in the 76th and 81st minutes.

That was enough for Timmins.

The 27-year-old took matters into his own hand in the third minute of extra time, taking a pass from Danny Buderus and piloting the ball between the posts from 35 metres.

"I was off at the start of extra time," Timmins said.

"Gowie went for a few shots and I saw they were chasing him all the time.

Brought to you by AAP © 2024 AAP