‘I Don’t Need Maroons Fairytale to Finish’: DCE Queensland skipper Daly Cherry-Evans (DCE) has declared that his determination to guide the Maroons to State of Origin glory is not contingent on a fairytale ending. Despite losing the opening match of the series in Sydney, DCE is adamant that the Maroons have the resilience and belief to overcome the deficit and reclaim the shield. “I don’t need a fairytale to finish,” DCE said. “I’ve been through enough heartache in this jersey to know that the only thing that matters is winning. Whether it’s a game three decider or a sweep, we just want to get the job done.” DCE acknowledged the challenges facing the Maroons, but emphasized his belief in the team’s ability. “We’ve got a lot to work on, especially our defense, but I know we can turn things around,” he said. “We’ve got some experienced players in our team who have won series before, and we’re going to use that experience to our advantage.” The Maroons have a history of overcoming adversity, having won the series in 2015 and 2017 after losing the opening match. DCE is confident that his team can add to that legacy. “We’re going to go out there and give it everything we’ve got,” he said. “We’ve got the belief that we can win, and we’re going to fight for every inch on that field.” The Maroons will travel to Perth for the second game of the series, which will be played on Sunday, June 27.Despite being within one match of creating history, Douglas Shire Mayor Michael Kerr said he was not concerned about continuing the ‘fairytale’ run of his team in the QFA Division 1. Port Douglas’ 20-point win over Cairns City Lions on Saturday night has them a game away from their first grand final in over 20 years. “I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t nervous going into the weekend,” Kerr said. “I thought the Lions would put it to us, but our boys just rose to the occasion. “They’ve exceeded all expectations, but we’re not getting ahead of ourselves.” The Crocodiles will face off against the South Cairns Cutters in next week’s preliminary final, with the winner taking on the minor premiers, Palm Beach Currumbin, in the grand final. Kerr said the club would be treating the clash with the Cutters “like a grand final.” “We’ve got huge respect for South Cairns,” he said. “They’re a big, strong side, so we’ll need to be at our best. “But I know our boys are up for the challenge.” The preliminary final will be played at Cazaly’s Stadium on Saturday, September 10.