Queensland stars halt Origin celebrations to pay a touching tribute to Cameron Munster's dad after emotion victory against New South Wales
After the death of his dear father Steven in the days before the State of Origin decider in Sydney, Munster led the Maroons to a 24-12 win in what was his finest hour as a footballer.
The 29-year-old wiped away tears as he embraced his coach Billy Slater post-match. The bravery and strength of character shown by Munster to play was an inspiration to his coach and also to his teammates who all lifted to a man.
In the changing rooms after the match, the Maroons stars sang and sprayed beer as they celebrated winning bragging rights over their arch rivals New South Wales.
But they paused for a brief and heartwarming moment to pay tribute to Munster's father, Steven, with coach Billy Slater leading the tributes.
The Maroons players gathered round in a circle, put their arms around their captain and raised their beers in the air in tribute to his father.
An emotional Munster covered his face and dropped his head towards the floor, overwhelmed with emotion.
After the match, Munster was interviewed by his childhood hero Darren Lockyer on Channel Nine and all the feelings of his turbulent week spilled out.
'Look, it's a tough one, like a high of emotions. When someone loses someone, you forget about it sometimes, but then it brings back memories,' Munster said.
'I just want to say thank you to all of the rugby league community, they've been outstanding.
'I've had so much support and text messages from not only rugby league (people). Family is more important than anything, and a lot of people showed that the last couple of days and really got behind me.'
Munster has grieved with his family this week and singled them out for being rocks of support.
'Thank you to my Mum, my sister, my partner Bianca and the kids for getting behind me this weekend,' Munster said.
'I know it's been a tough time, but that's life.
'I just want to appreciate everyone that's been around me and made this week so special. We'll enjoy tonight and I can't wait to obviously go next year and hopefully see what we can do.'
Munster has received great support from his Maroons teammates but also from his Blues opponents, which clearly moved him.
'I'd just like to thank the NSW Blues, Isaah (Yeo), Nathan (Cleary), Laurie Daley and all the coaching staff and all the players,' Munster said at the official presentation.
'I really appreciate some of you reaching out to me during the week. It just shows how good rugby league is.
'Family's bigger than the sport. Thank you for rallying behind me. It doesn't go unnoticed. I'm in awe of all you guys and you'll be back bigger and better next year.'
Munster's two performances as captain of the Maroons don't get any better.
He was man of the match in the 26-24 win in game two in Perth to keep the series alive and then played a controlled, disciplined and also dangerous role in the decider.
His kicking display was as good as any in his 21-game Origin career.
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