Reece Walsh and Jarome Luai have both brushed aside any ill-will following Wednesday night's wild State of Origin clash, despite a last-minute melee resulting in both players being sent off.
The fiery customers were in the thick of the drama at the tail-end of Queensland's series-clinching 32-6 victory in front of a packed Suncorp Stadium, with both Walsh and Luai trading headbutts during the fracas.
The pair have since been charged by the NRL judiciary, but both stars will avoid suspension and should be free to line up for Brisbane and Penrith respectively in Round 17.
Walsh received a standing ovation as he ran off the field puffing his chest, while Luai was at the centre of boos and 'wanker' chants from the Maroons supporters all night.
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Reece Walsh reflects on ugly State of Origin ending
Speaking to reporters in the sheds post-game, the rookie Queensland fullback admitted he let his emotions get the better of him, but believes the rivalry with Luai is good for the game.
“It's two passionate players wearing their heart on their sleeve and putting their body on the line for their teammates, their family, their state," Walsh said.
"I’ve got a lot of respect for Jarome and the way he carries himself – off the field, he is a young dad and I’m a young dad. I just hope that whatever happens on the field can stay on the field… I would gladly shake his hand.
"I love the way he plays and the passion he plays with. You always hate versing them players and that’s all it is.
“It puts bums in seats and makes you want to go out there and play good footy. That’s what makes us really good players and the players we are.
“I’m not gonna comment on what was said in the game… we’re not in the game anymore.
“It wasn’t a pretty ending to the game and I’m a bit dirty on that, but this jersey means so much to me.
Jarome Luai admits fault over State of Origin incident
While young speedster Walsh was enjoying a couple of cold beers after the game with his celebratory Maroons teammates, Luai was understandably in a more sombre mood down the hall.
The five-eighth told reporters his own personal faults got in the way and led to both men being sent off.
"It's just a bit of passion - I’m a sore loser as well," Luai said.
"I’m just disappointed… I hate to lose.
“I’m not gonna repeat what was said out there, but if you want to ask him, he might tell you.
"I’m a professional and I know there’s a line on the field. They won the game tonight, so good on them."
Luai will be under immense pressure to retain his spot in the NSW side for Game III next month, with the likes of Cody Walker and Nicho Hynes potentially in the mix for a recall.
