New South Wales 16-12 Queensland

New South Wales have levelled up their three-match State of Origin series against Queensland thanks to a 16-12 victory in Sydney this afternoon.

Queensland, who won the opening match last weekend 18-10, looked to be heading for another victory when they took a 6-4 lead into the break thanks to a try from Ben Hannant, which was converted by Johnathan Thurston.

New South Wales kept in contention courtesy of a try from Brett Stewart.

Todd Carney levelled up proceedings shortly after the restart by sending a penalty between the posts.

Quickfire tries from Glenn Stewart and Josh Morris, one of which was converted by Carney, then put New South Wales 16-6 up and in command of the contest.

Greg Inglis ran in a late consolation try for Queensland, who were brought to within four points of the Blues thanks to a conversion from Thurston.

Queensland pushed hard for an equalising try in the closing stages, but they were unable to break through the New South Wales backline.

The decider will take place in Brisbane next week.