Dyldam Parramatta Eels centre and NSW winger Will Hopoate says he's just grateful to be part of the Blues' history State of Origin series win on Wednesday night.
Called up to the Blues side for the first time since 2011, and with just 13 games back in the NRL after returning from his two-year Mormon mission, Hopoate struck a solid defensive combination with centre Josh Dugan on the Blues' right edge.
"It’s very exciting and to come away with the win, to win the series is very humbling," Hopoate said.
"I’m just grateful to be part of the experience."
The brutal encounter saw Hopoate struggle with a possible shoulder injury, but continue playing.
"There was some treatment at half-time but I was able to carry on," Hopoate said.
"The boys were putting their bodies on the line and giving it their all so I felt I needed to do the same."
"[Blues trainer Ronnie Palmer] was encouraging me to stay mentally strong and put effort in for the boys."
Hopoate will see Eels medical staff and receive scans for his shoulder on Thursday.
