DCE primed to respond for Maroons

If you thought Queensland skipper Daly Cherry-Evans was done and dusted on the Origin stage, think again.

Cherry-Evans’ premiership-winning halves partner Kieran Foran has warned the Blues to expect a response from the under-fire halfback in Origin III.

Foran believes “DCE” is primed to rebound after below-par performances in the opening two Origin losses to the star-studded Blues.

A shattered Daly Cherry-Evans after Queensland lost Origin II and the series in Brisbane. Picture: Peter WallisSource:News Corp Australia

“I think the criticism (of DCE) is way off the mark,” said Foran, who won a premiership alongside Cherry-Evans at Manly in 2011.

“He is a world-class halfback, player and leader. To be the type of player he has been for over a decade, you can’t do that unless you set yourself extremely high standards.

“Knowing the bloke personally, I know how much he cares about winning and being the best player that he can be.

“NSW have won the first two games and that won’t sit well with DCE, and I know he will be doing everything he can to lead that Queensland team to victory.”

Foran will lead Manly against Canberra on Thursday night in the absence of Origin stars Cherry-Evans and Tom Trbojevic.

Kieran Foran has turned back the clock with some impressive form for Manly this season. Picture: Chris Hyde/Getty ImagesSource:Getty Images

He has performed strongly for the Sea Eagles in recent weeks as he looks to secure a new deal beyond this season.

“For sure, I’m really enjoying my footy at the moment and my body is feeling good,” the 30-year-old said.

“I want to continue to build on my own form as well as playing my role in the side and do that to the best of my capabilities.

“As long as we keep winning and we’re playing good footy, hopefully the club wants to keep me around for a bit longer.”

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